Preservation of Pioneer Log Structure Planned in Mundare

Preservation of Pioneer Log Structure Planned in Mundare

Michelle Pinon - News Advertiser

According to the Basilian Fathers Museum the Sawchuk summer kitchen is one of the only pioneer structures remaining in Mundare.

The log structure is set among a small grove of poplar trees and once belonged to one of the original families in the area who once lived on the property prior to the Basilian Fathers establishing Sts. Peter and Paul Ukrainian Catholic Church.

Plans are now underway for the revival and restoration of the summer kitchen in conjunction with the ‘Hands On History’ event that will be held on the museum grounds September 11.

Karen Lemiski, Curator and Associate Director of the Basilian Fathers Museum, said this year marks both the 130th anniversary of Ukrainian immigration to Canada and the 30th anniversary of the new Basilian Fathers building. “The museum opened in 1953 and was originally located in the building belonging to the Basilian Press which is located behind Sts. Peter and Paul Ukrainian Catholic Church.”

The exterior of the Sawchuk summer kitchen.

(Basilian Fathers Museum/ Submitted Photo)

Heritage Conservation Specialist Fr. Jim Nakonechny stated in his proposal to the museum, “Such a structure is worthy of preservation in order that future generations can tangibly experience pioneer life and building technology. Once completed, our goal is to have the house open for museum visitors and be used in school programs as part of a museum visit.”

As far as activities on September 11, Lemiski said, “Our plan is to invite people, whoever is interested, to help put the clay plaster on the walls of the preserved building. We will be inviting representatives of the local community, cultural organizations, etc., to participate in the log plastering.” The museum will have other artifacts set up for people to try out, such as grinding wheat, using a scrubboard, etc. “Details will be worked out in the coming months.”

The end of summer event will also feature cultural displays, farmer’s market, barbecue, musical entertainment, and antique vehicles. “No admission will be charged, and vendors only asked now to reserve a space.”

She went on to say, “You can never have too many volunteers for a public event, but ideally, they will assist with logistics, giving directions, set up and clean up, and be their eyes and ears on the day to help make the event a great success,” stated Lemiski.

The hope is to make Hands On History an annual event in the community.”

Lemiski wrote a letter to the Town of Mundare asking if it would be interested in collaborating with the museum for the event. She explained, “We would like them to help publicize the event; to get the town businesses to support and participate, etc.”

Members of council indicated they would be interested in collaborating with the museum and made a motion to that effect on March 16 during its regular meeting.