Parkland Valley District Spotlight

Celebrating Community Successes

By: Darla Batke

Date: April. 2026

Issue: 8

Taking Time to Explore Our Communities

Photo: Melville Heritage Museum

Last year, Parkland Valley District had the opportunity to visit several museums and historic sites across the District, and one thing quickly became clear, every single one had something unique about it.

Some had incredible local artifacts, some shared stories you wouldn’t hear anywhere else, and others were filled with passionate volunteers eager to give tours, explain exhibits, and talk about the history of their communities. No two museums were the same, and honestly, every one of them ended up being far more interesting than I expected.

It made me realize how often we drive through communities without ever stopping to explore what’s there. We pass by historic buildings, museums, and heritage sites, usually on our way to somewhere else, without taking the time to appreciate the stories sitting right in our own backyard.

Photo: Kaposvar Historic Site

Photo: The National Doukhobor Heritage Village

Photo: Esterhazy Community Museum

Photo: Preeceville Museum

As museums and historic sites across the district begin opening their doors for the season, this is a great reminder to take the Sunday drive. Stop in at the small museum you’ve passed a dozen times, explore a nearby community, ask questions, and listen to the stories. You never know what you might discover or what piece of Saskatchewan history you might connect with along the way.

These places are more than collections of artifacts. They reflect the people, communities, and histories that helped shape our province, and many are kept going by dedicated volunteers who care deeply about preserving those stories for future generations.

Photo: Kamsack Power House Museum

At Parkland Valley, we’re proud to support and connect with museums across the district and the work they do to preserve and share local history.

So this spring and summer, consider exploring Saskatchewan history close to home. There’s a good chance there’s a hidden gem waiting just down the road.

Be sure to check ahead for hours, as many museums and historic sites operate seasonally and may vary by community.

Parkland Valley Spotlight highlights success stories in sport, culture, and recreation from across our District. Have a story to share? Let us know!

Parkland Valley Sport Culture and Recreation District is a non profit voluntary organization working with communities building capacity and creating a strong network of support through sport, culture, and recreation.

Recipients are encouraged to forward the Parkland Valley Insider! to other members of their organizations.

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