Built in Montreal in 1913, the engine was used in several prairie subdivisions then in BC up till 1960. Now at North Battleford museum. (CLICK to ENLARGE)
The province’s Western Development Museum was started in 1949 with the foresight to preserve agricultural machinery showing development of the technology over the years.
This ice wagon was used to collect ice from the river and deliver to Saskatoon homes and businesses. The company was sold in 1966, but continued to sell ice till 1972. Acquired in 1955 (CLICK to ENLARGE)
As the museum grew, its mandate has grown as well to reflect all aspects of history in the western province, from clothing, to toys, entertainment, transport, even buildings including a church, and an old RCMP building as just a couple of examples.
“We showcase farm machinery, but we also do so much more than that,” said Executive Director Joan Champ. “We show the history of Saskatchewan, whether it’s in health care, whether it’s in our resource industry which is so much a part of our economy today.”
Intricate horse and wagon woven from wheat straw, a technique brought to the prairies by Euorpean immigrants, atechnique that faded out with mechanization of farming.. This example by AR Rhodes. The WDM has a wide variety of artefacts showing all aspects of prairie life and history. (CLICK TO ENLARGE)
The museum also has expanded with branches in four separate cities, Saskatoon, Yorkton, North Battleford and Moose Jaw.
WESTERN DEVELOPMENT MUSEUM WEBSITE with many photos and video
Built by Robert Fudge of Moosimin starting in 1932, “snow sedans”. These were popular until all weather roads became common in Saskatchewan. Acquired in 1960 (CLICK to ENLARGE)
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