|
The Agassiz-Harrison
Museum is housed in a Canadian Pacific Railway station built in
1893. The building was once a fully-operating station, and was
also the living quarters for the station master and his family.
In the 1970s, |
|
 |
stationmasters were gradually
phased out and the CPR eventually discontinued the use of stations.
The building was then purchased and opened as a museum in 1986,
when it was puchased by the Agassiz-Harrison Historical Society
for exactly 1 dollar. Since then it has brought joy to visitors
and community members of all ages and we hope that it will continue
to do so for many years. |
| The museum runs almost
entirely on the efforts of its volunteers, and donations of funding
and artifacts from the community. Thanks to these efforts, we
have developed a very large collection for both viewing and research
purposes. Our extensive archives contain photographs,
newspapers,
and other artifacts,
including letters, diaries, and documents.
Inside you will also find the
Local-Motive Gift Shop, which
is full of neat museum souvenirs, books, and a variety of consignments
from local artisans. We are also now the Visitor Information Centre,
so visit us for information on local
attractions,
accomodations,
and dining.
|
| The museum records
both local and CPR history. The stationmaster's office houses
equipment that was once used by CPR employees. The waiting room
features the history of the Agassiz family (for which the town
is named). On the wall you will also see the "Memory Board"
where friends and family can have their loved ones remembered
with a photo. There is also a large picture depicting the devastation
caused by the flood of 1948. The main gallery was originally the
freight shed, where local fruit, vegetables, freight, and animals
waited to be carried out onto a waiting train. It now contains
exhibits representing the history of local farming, business,
sports, and industry. Finally, the back room includes treasures
from the Dominion Experimental Farm (circa 1888) and items from
Dr. McCaffrey's office. It also contains a large collection of
First Nations art, baskets, and other artifacts. |
 |
| This is only the beginning
of what the Agassiz-Harrison Museum has to offer, so come and
visit us. |
©Agassiz-Harrison
Historical Society