50 Years of Dalnavert Museum
June 2024 marks 50 years since Dalnavert Museum first opened.
On June 18, 1974, the museum was officially opened to the public by the Lieutenant Governor. The opening came after years of restoration by the Manitoba Historical Society. Lasting from 1969-1974, the restoration of Dalnavert cost $559 000.
Dalnavert was originally the home of Sir Hugh John Macdonald and his family, who lived in the house from 1895 to 1929. From 1929 to 1940, the house sat empty, until it was purchased and transformed into a rooming house. During this time, the house was renovated and split into 17 suites. By 1969, Dalnavert was up for sale again. A developer planned to purchase the property and tear the house down before the Manitoba Historical Society intervened and set about restoring it.
Dalnavert, date unknown.
Since becoming a museum, Dalnavert has had a lively history. One staple in our programming is our beloved lecture series. Lectures at Dalnavert date back to 1976.
Among these lectures was one given in 1993 by Arthur Kazumi Miki, CM OM, a prominent activist and politician from Winnipeg. He is best known for advocating for reparations for Japanese Canadians interned by the Canadian government during World War II. The museum is committed to exploring diverse topics in these lectures, such as the history of magic in Winnipeg (delivered by Fred Chernoff and Basil Rotoff). More recently, in 2021, there was the Elizabeth Alloway Lecture Series, sponsored by the Winnipeg Foundation. Lectures from this series discussed gender and sexuality in the Victorian era, Annie Bannatyne and even canine teeth.
In 50 years of operation, Dalnavert has done much more than just lectures, though. From tea parties, to mini Olympics, to movie screenings, concerts, and even plays - Dalnavert has done it all.
Many of these events have only been possible thanks to the addition of the Visitors’ Centre in 2005. For the first 30 years of the museum’s history, there was only a small office space located in the back of the attic. Over 1000 people attended the grand opening of the Visitors’ Centre on May 14, 2005, where Lieutenant Governor John Harvard cut the ribbon, as pictured below.
Visitors’ Centre Grand Opening. Lieutenant Governor John Harvard cuts the ribbon.
Beginning in June, you will be able to find the anniversary exhibit “Dalnavert’s Golden Year” in our Visitors’ Centre. The exhibit highlights Dalnavert’s 50 years as a museum. From decorative arts to daily utensils and tools, “Dalnavert’s Golden Year” celebrates the history of the museum’s volunteers, community, and connection to the city. Take the opportunity to see the variety of items that help make up Dalnavert’s collection this summer!
Support us In our 50th Year
Late 19th century. Beautiful and unique glass work can last for centuries when cared for. With your support a piece such as this can last for many, many years to come.
Each adoption package includes:
Certificate of adoption
High-quality print photo of your artifact
Detailed write-up about the history of the artifact
A pass for a 2-person tour of Dalnavert Museum
All wrapped in an envelope, perfect for gifting