OUTLOOK - The Outlook & District Heritage Museum celebrated a unique anniversary last week.
On Monday, June 5, the 30th anniversary of the museum's move to the CPR station grounds was celebrated. With food trucks, an antique buggy on display courtesy of Rod McPherson, and heritage demonstrations by Kate King, the day's events were a glimpse back into the past for those who were on hand.
With the look back in time that any visit to the museum provides its visitors, we hope readers will enjoy the following as we contribute our own little 'blast from the past' as it relates to museum history. From the June 14, 1993 edition of The Outlook, here is the original article that highlighted the museum's move to the CPR grounds.
'Outlook Museum Grand Opening
On Saturday, June 5, 1993 Jack Featherby dressed in his CPR conductor's uniform cut the ribbon to officially open the Outlook and District Museum.
The opening ceremonies commenced at 11:00 a.m. with secretary/treasurer Ralph Derdall welcoming everyone. He spoke briefly on the history of the CPR and what it meant to the Town of Outlook. He mentioned the cost of the station - $6,000 in 1908. Only a few stations of this type were built: two in Alberta and six in Saskatchewan. Some have been demolished, but with several years of hard work and co-operation with the town we have been able to preserve this landmark.
What better building for a museum!
Ralph introduced the directors: Evelyn Pederson, chairman; Bud Arthur, vice chairman; Sylvia Clelland, Aloda Farden, Art Derdall and Bob Lepage, Nancy Carlson was unable to attend.
Alderwoman Doreen Bell, representing the Town of Outlook, spoke on behalf of the Town Council. Aldrich Solnicka brought greetings and good wishes from the R.M. of Rudy.
Ralph then called on Bud Arthur to introduce the former CPR employees who held the ribbon: Irvin Cobb, Neville Davies, Max Birns and Joe Ciotka. Paul Hutch was to participate in the opening ceremonies but was unavoidably delayed.
It was nice to see Rod Laporte, Member of Parliament for Moose Jaw - Lake Centre in attendance.
Everyone was then invited to tour the museum, and to enjoy visiting over a cup of coffee and cookies which was served out on the boardwalk. Carol Larson and helpers Margaret Keith and Del Holmlund served the refreshments.
Seated at the guest register was Margaret Derdall, assisted by Norma Derdall. Lois Pederson looked after the memberships.
Over 350 people signed the guest register. The displays were enjoyed by the visitors and there were many comments on the cleanliness of the building and the artifacts.
It was a trip down memory lane for many as they recalled memorable arrivals and departures, and the station agents at the wicket during those times.
The board members were very pleased to see the interest shown by local people as well as many former residents who came back especially for the occasion.'
