Steinbach MLA Kelvin Goertzen gave a statement in the Manitoba Legislature on Monday inviting Manitobans and Canadians to visit the Mennonite Heritage Village in Steinbach during its 50th Anniversary next year.
Kelvin Goertzen’s statement:
“Mr. Speaker it is an honour today to inform the Manitoba Legislature and its Members that 2014 will mark the 50th Anniversary of The Mennonite Heritage Village museum located in the City of Steinbach.
The Museum was first conceived through a Board that was established in 1958 and the museum followed a few years later with a house barn, school, church and the Reimer General Store.
The Mennonite Heritage Village started with the idea of telling the story of the first generation of Mennonites that arrived in the 1870s and the simple agricultural lives they lived. The most iconic symbol is that of the Windmill on the Museum grounds which is a replica of the original 1877 version which once graced the village of Steinbach.
The Museum has grown since its early days and today holds almost 16,000 artifacts many of which are reflective of life for Mennonite immigrants who came from Russia in the 1920s and 1950s as well.
Situated on 40 acres of land the Museum depicts a village street that is indicative of Mennonite villages throughout southern Manitoba in those early days. Special events throughout the year, such as spring on the farm, fall on the farm and Pioneer Days bring to life what times were like for early Mennonite settlers.
The Museum exists to preserve for future generations the story of what life was life for these early Manitoba settlers. It shows in the most real way the challenges, struggles, aspirations and successes of these people of faith who laid the foundation for the modern and thriving communities we see today.
The Mennonite Heritage Village is a place where all Manitobans and all those who visit from other parts of Canada and the world can come learn and experience a unique time in history.
The 50th anniversary is a time to thank all of those who have, over the years, had the vision and the dedication to make the Mennonite Heritage Village the Manitoba landmark it is today. This includes the many staff, donors and countless volunteers of the Museum.
On behalf of the Manitoba Legislature we invite all Manitobans, Canadians and the world to visit the Mennonite Heritage Village in 2014 as it celebrates 50 years and looks to the future even as it preserves the past.”
