Hundreds of Moose Jaw students learned more about early pioneer life in Saskatchewan through hands-on activities during the Western Development Museum’s (WDM) annual Learning Day.
Nearly 350 students — the largest number ever registered for this event — and close to 100 adult chaperones and teachers discovered more about blacksmithing, butter churning, cow milking, typewriters, cleaning and laundry, pen and ink writing, quilting, telegraphy, Morse code, flight and vintage aircraft, early air ambulance services, trains and boxcars, telescopes and solar telescopes, radios, and Aboriginal and Métis culture, on May 29 at the WDM.
Students came from all over southern Saskatchewan, from places such as Regina, Swift Current, Lucky Lake, Assiniboia, Bengough, and Moose Jaw.
“It’s marvellous to have them all come together,” said Karla Rasmussen, education and programs co-ordinator.
Learning Day has changed over the years, as the museum has attempted to keep the day fresh by bringing in new activities, Rasmussen continued. This is important since there are many schools that return every year.
The most important part of Learning Day is the hands-on aspect.
“Normally at a museum you can’t touch things. Things are behind barriers or behind glass,” said Rasmussen. “So this is a great tactile experience for students. It really immerses them in those heritage skills or stories that are from a hundred years ago or more. They really come to life for them that way.”
Rasmussen commended the many volunteers who stepped forward to help with the 20 stations. She pointed out Learning Day would not happen with their efforts.
In particular, one exhibitor came from Saskatoon to talk about Saskatchewan’s air ambulance services. Rasmussen explained the museum has a gallery that focuses on ambulances and health care in the province. The exhibitor from Saskatoon helped students understand the changes that have occurred over time and how the modern air ambulance system looks.
Elder Gerry Stonechild and the New Southern Plains Métis Local were also on hand to discuss their respective cultures with students.
More information about the Western Development Museum can be found at www.wdm.ca.
