Fort La Reine Museum, Pioneer Village and Tourist Bureau Inc.

Overview

The Fort La Reine Museum, Pioneer Village and Tourist Bureau Inc. is a nonprofit cultural heritage centre located on the outskirts of Portage la Prairie, Manitoba, Canada. The museum is designed to showcase the history and lifestyle of the Canadian Prairies, particularly highlighting the period from 1738 to 1950.

Features and Exhibits

The museum complex includes over 25 unique heritage buildings, offering visitors a glimpse into the past with structures such as:

• Pioneer Village: Features a General Store, Doctor’s Office, Church, Fire Hall, School House, and more.
• 1738 Fort la Reine Complex and Trading Post: This part of the museum explores the early fur trade and exploration era.
• The World's Largest Indoor Collection of Allis Chalmers Equipment and Tractors: Highlighting the region's agricultural heritage.
• Sir William Van Horne's Private Business Rail Car: Provides insight into the history of Canadian rail travel.
• Southport Military Building: Offers a look at military history.
• Agricultural Heritage Barn and Garage: Showcases farming practices and tools.

Programs and Activities

The museum offers a variety of guided tours and field trips, catering to different interests and age groups. These tours include:

• Beavertails Tour: Focuses on life as a fur trader or explorer.
• Pioneers & Trailblazers Tour: Explores life for early settlers.
• Building a Nation Tour: Examines innovations of the industrial era.
• How it Works Tour: A tactile tour providing hands-on experiences.

Community Engagement and Accessibility

The museum is committed to community involvement, offering discounts for local non-profit groups and free admission for teachers and supervisors accompanying school groups. The site includes wheelchair-accessible facilities and amenities to ensure a comfortable visit for all guests.

Cultural and Educational Significance

Fort La Reine Museum serves as an important educational resource, preserving and sharing the cultural heritage of the Canadian Prairies. It provides a comprehensive understanding of the region's historical development, emphasizing Indigenous histories, pioneer life, and the evolution of industries such as agriculture and transportation.