Burrough of the Gleann Museum closes season with final fundraising lunch
Burrough of the Gleann Museum served up the season’s final fundraising lunch on Thursday, August 21, unaffected by the sporadic dark, threatening clouds overhead. According to museum Board members Myrtle Nichols and Joy Lalonde, the first and last barbecues of the season are typically the busiest and this year’s sales reflected that trend.
In addition to those who enjoyed their meals at the picnic tables while visiting with friends and neighbors, many others, particularly seniors who find it harder to get out, along with local businesses placed orders to be picked up and enjoyed at home or the workplace.
The hot dog and hamburger lunches, organized for many years by the local Board, remain the museum’s main fundraiser.
“We don’t get a lot of funding. We do receive a levy from the RM (applied for grant) for which we are very grateful. However, that’s all we get, so we really do rely on the support of our biweekly barbecue during the summer months,” explained Nichols. She added that the Board is always on the lookout for provincial and federal grants to help with maintenance and upkeep.
Along with community support, Nichols and Lalonde acknowledged the volunteers who make the lunches possible, including Albert Hamilton, who has manned the grill for three seasons, and the Board members who supply homemade cookies.
Still, volunteer support remains a concern. “We have been on the Board for years and we aren’t getting any younger. I worry that we won’t have enough members to take over when we can’t do it anymore,” Lalonde said.
Despite the challenges, the museum has seen an increase in visitors over the past two seasons. Much of the draw has come from local artist, Peter Sawatzky’s exhibit of paintings, bronze sculptures and wood carvings, showcased for two consecutive summers. Board member Danielle Patterson has also been diligent in keeping the museum fresh by rotating and reorganizing exhibits.
Nichols and Lalonde also praised this year’s student employee, Torah Robidoux, hired through a government grant. Robidoux has been instrumental in creating detailed item display cards for each exhibit, adding an extra layer of information for visitors.
With the summer now wrapped up, the museum will close for the season, opening only by appointment or on Tuesdays from 1 to 3:30 p.m. Nichols commented that appointments may be made by calling her directly at 204-827-3962, a sign with contact info will also be posted on the door in the near future.
With another successful season behind them, the Burrough of the Gleann Museum looks forward to welcoming visitors again next summer, while also encouraging more community members to join the Board and help preserve Glenboro’s history.
PHOTO CAPTION: Albert Hamilton, who has been doing the cooking for 3 seasons, along with other helpers at the Burrough of the Gleann museum’s fundraising bbq on August 21. Once again it was very successful this summer. PHOTO BY SUZANNE PADDOCK
