Museum still preserving Manitoba’s maritime heritage after 50 years

52 years ago, a group of local leaders started a mission to create a museum that would capture the marine history of Manitoba. Just two years later, their dream became a reality.

The Marine Museum of Manitoba, located in Selkirk, Man., is celebrating its 50th anniversary.

The grand opening of the 2024 season happened Saturday afternoon with Minister of Sports, Culture and Heritage Glen Simard and other community leaders.

“This anniversary not only honours the dedication of our founding leaders but also heralds an exciting new chapter for the museum,” said Duane Nicol, Chair of the Marine Museum of Manitoba Board of Directors.

It is an institution dedicated to preserving maritime heritage of Manitoba, offering engaging exhibits, educational programs, and community events.

As the museum enters its fiftieth year of operation, it is also now showcasing new displays and updated programs.

Museum Manager Shay Nordal has worked here for 30 of its 50 years. She says since it opened in 1974 – two ships, sat on land, next to the Red River where they once transported goods, and have been a point of pride for Selkirk.

In addition to improvements at the facility, the hope is to move the ships inside so the museum can be open year ’round, rather than just from May to September, according to Duane Nicol.

“Our bold vision is to see these ships indoors, so that they can be a permanent fixture in the community, and we’re protecting them and ensuring that they’re here for generations to come,” said Nicol.