Some Czar residents heard about plans that call for a new, expanded museum at a meeting held on Tuesday night, November 21 at the Hitching Post in the village.

The conceptual proposal was put together by Marion Kelch and Robert Hahn who have already spent hours working on the project.

Some of those at the public meeting were not aware that some planning had already taken place but Kelch assured them the idea was a proposal only.

Space is limited at the existing museum that is operated west of Czar at Shorncliffe Park. There appears to be some problems with moisture, being so close to the lake and some are concerned that artifacts may become damaged in the existing building. The Prairie Panorama Museum has been operated since 1967 and it houses an “enviable collection” said Kelch who also paid homage to the late Ruby Almberg and Helena Lawrason for their dedication to it over the years. The museum is operated about half of the year.
Hahn suggested that a new concept could be incorporated onto the north and slightly east end of Main Street in Czar and may involve purchasing two and one half acres of land from the Canadian Pacific Railway.

Kelch said that the vacant CPR site development would greatly improve the “townscape” of Czar and would make reference to past historical events and buildings.

The Village of Czar was approached to purchase the property with the intention that the museum could be placed in that vicinity but the request was declined.

The new museum would carry artifacts from the existing building but could also feature metal frames or skeleton structures of buildings like an elevator (at half size) along with models of windmills, farm animals, corrals and room for displays for auto shows or other events. It was suggested that the building would have to generate money to be economically feasible to run which may be on a year around basis.

One person said that getting the money would not be a problem to construct the new building but that operating it would be a challenge.
Kelch agreed that there are “a lot of questions to be answered” but challenged those present to “be bold and imaginative” and to have the courage to take on the project. She added that saving St. Norbert’s Church from the wrecker’s ball many years ago southeast of Provost was done by a small group of people and their first fundraising event held for its preservation was a bake sale that realized $78. The church has since been renovated and has been called a jewel on the prairies.

Kelch pointed out that some grants may be available for the new Czar museum. In five years the province will mark its centennial and some funds have already been earmarked for communities with proposals to help mark the 100 years in confederation.
After people think about the project another meeting will be called in the new year.

Hahn and Kelch spent over 100 hours designing and making the model of the museum and grounds.

They said they were at the meeting looking for input and pointed out that the plan would go ahead only if there was enough support and interest.