Steinbach’s Mennonite Heritage Village (MHV) has reached and surpassed the $2,000,000 milestone in its Foundations for a Strong Future campaign. The campaign was rolled out in August of 2015 and encompasses a number of projects totaling $3,000,000.

MHV is a museum that collects artifacts and stories of the Russian Mennonites who arrived in Canada in 1874 and initially settled in Manitoba. It is through the preservation and exhibition of these artifacts and the retelling of the stories that the history of this people-group will be kept alive. MHV is also a gathering place for community events and activities, and a destination that attracts thousands of tourists from more than 50 countries annually.

Foundations for a Strong Future will provide funding for:

  • the restoration of a number of heritage structures, including the 1876 Waldheim House and the iconic windmill
  • the construction of the Summer Pavilion, a new event centre to replace the tent
  • the replacement of all HVAC systems in the 26-year old Village Centre
  • the payment of all remaining debt
  • the enhancement of the endowment fund

These projects will put the museum on a strong footing going forward.

“We are gratified by the response of our constituency,” states executive director Barry Dyck. “Individuals, businesses, private foundations, and governments have stepped up to the plate and have responded generously.” Board chair Willie Peters comments, “The board of directors of the museum is delighted to have reached this milestone in just over a year.”

A number of the projects are already underway. Three of seven HVAC units in the Village Centre have been replaced; construction of the Summer Pavilion has begun; the log walls of the Waldheim House are currently being refurbished; the Old Colony Worship House has received a fresh coat of paint; and the louvers on the sails of the windmill have been replaced. Several additional projects are scheduled for 2017, including the placement of a new thatched roof on the Waldheim House.

MHV is grateful for all government, corporate, foundation and individual pledges and donations received for this campaign.