If a silver lining can be found within this massive COVID-19 disruption, there might be a hint of it in the experience of Kamsack’s Powerhouse Museum board which has used the closure of the facility to the public as unencumbered time for cleaning and rearranging the building and its artifacts.
Members of the Board Planning Committee spearheaded a project that began in the fall of 2019, when the outdoor grounds containing large agriculture equipment were improved, according to information received from the board.
In preparation, extensive research was conducted on the individual pieces of equipment to determine what each piece represented and how it was utilized in the farming operation, the information said. The equipment was then moved and reorganized as to use, such as haying equipment, tilling equipment and tractors for a better cohesive display. This was all accomplished by museum board members and volunteers.
Plans are underway for a sign at the entrance announcing the museum grounds equipment and their historical significance. It is to be installed along with individual plaques for the various pieces.
The next project was the area in front of the museum, the parking area, the information said. The area was upgraded with fresh gravel, new curbing was installed along with a display of the large anvil, an old wagon wheel and some large boulders. The upgraded flowerbed area was enhanced with the watering trough being a feature item. This was complemented with a pole and chain link fence to identify the parking space.
In the interior of the museum, the display pioneer bedroom and pioneer kitchen dioramas were upgraded by removing some of the artifacts and adding other items.
“These rooms now appear new and fresh,” it said.
The fur cabinet containing fur coats and hats was repaired and improved with the addition of an inside display light.
“All the beautiful furs were brushed and wiped down before they were replaced in the cabinet.”
All items that were removed, stored or interchanged were catalogued for future knowledge.
Work was also accomplished on the basement opening with a proper door and lock for ease of access and security.
In addition to the work completed, the NPC (Northern Petroleum Corporation) kitchen was reorganized by the installation of new sinks and improved wiring.
New highway signs were installed, announcing the museum to the public and the tourists who travel the highways leading to Kamsack.
“We will continue to work on the displays on the interior of the museum for better organization and flow,” the information said. “We have accomplished much and are very grateful to have had the time given.
“We as a board and volunteer group do appreciate our museum and the history it holds,” it said. “We are extremely grateful for the support of our board, volunteers and the community as a whole.
“We look forward to opening our museum next summer and greeting old friends.”
