Funding was a game changer, Historical Society tells city council six months later

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Last November, Mayor Bill Powalinsky and Historical Society president Michael Gange signed a long term funding deal that has since proven to be a game changer for the society. (Image Credit: Susan McNeil/paNOW)

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Gange said the society’s updated strategic plan focuses on making the museum more accessible, improving internal financial systems and preparing physical upgrades to the building’s second floor. Longer term, he said the organization wants to install an elevator and build a structural addition so more residents and visitors can access exhibits. 

The society also reported strong attendance. Gange said more than 11,600 people visited the museum or took part in its programming in 2025, with more than 6,700 participating in specialized programs. He said that momentum has continued into 2026, with more than 1,000 interactions recorded by the end of May. 

He said the society’s Youth Explorer program continues to offer summer camps and winter programming for children and teens, while its online outreach has sharply expanded. Over the past year, the organization generated more than 25,000 social media engagements and 1.5 million impressions, Gange said. 

Among the society’s major projects is the digitization of Daily Herald microfilm in partnership with the newspaper and the public library. Gange said the project has digitized reels up to 1994 and is expected to reach 2014 by the end of this year, making the material available free online and at the museum. 

The society has also completed a new front entrance that allows seasonal access through the museum’s front doors and incorporates heritage brick and artifacts salvaged from the former National Hotel. Gange also thanked the city for repair work, painting and floor refinishing at the Evolution of Education Museum. 

But Gange warned that the city-owned buildings housing the society’s collections need significant repairs. He said Diefenbaker House is dealing with slope-related issues, including roof leaks and floor heaving, while the Historical Museum faces earth pressure behind the former fire hall and continuing foundation leaks in a maintenance room. 

“We look forward to collaborating closely with the city administration to address these infrastructure needs before they worsen,” Gange said. 

Coun. Tony Head said he was encouraged by the progress the society has made and the working relationship between the organization and the city. 

“Can’t say enough about our historical society,” Head said. “History is very important, and I’m really proud of some of the museums that we have.” 

Head acknowledged the society faces staffing and infrastructure challenges.

“We have some challenges, of course, but something that can be overcome,” he said. “If we’re working together, we can ensure that this historic building stands strong for many years to come.” 

The update comes as the society prepares for a major milestone in 2027, when it will mark 50 years of operating out of its museum building. In the short term, Gange said the organization’s priorities for summer 2026 are maintaining full staffing, launching a new historical walking tour and finishing the archive digitization work. 

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susan.mcneil@pattisonmedia.com