A calendar fundraiser has proven to be a timely boost for the Dufferin Historical Society, generating strong community support and much-needed revenue for upcoming museum projects.
Inspired by the success of a Homecoming 2000 calendar, the society revisited the idea and found it well worth repeating. With sponsorship support from Carman Ford, Janzen GMC and Toews Printing, and sales driven by board members, local businesses and volunteers, a total of 1,050 calendars were sold, raising approximately $6,000.
In addition to sales, the society donated 10 calendars to the PCH/Lodge, providing one for each house as a way to share the project with residents.
Board member Dennis Young said the response exceeded expectations, particularly given changing habits around printed calendars.
“It blew me away really, since the use of a calendar is almost a thing of the past,” Young said. “That being said, when we added the historic content, people actually wanted it. This is just one way of us attempting to keep the museum ‘in your face,’ so to speak.”
Young said the museum attracted more than 600 visitors over the summer but noted there is still room to grow.
“We did attract over 600 this summer, but there are still days and weeks when we could use more visitors,” he said. “If we had a dime for every time a local said, ‘You know, I’ve never been in there,’ we would not need fundraisers,” he added with a laugh.
The proceeds come at an important time for the museum, as storage space for existing and newly acquired artifacts remains limited. The society is exploring the possibility of a nearby storage facility, with approvals being sought from both the Town of Carman and the RM of Dufferin.
Accessibility upgrades are also a priority. The current walkway does not meet required wheelchair width standards, and the interlocking brick surface has become a tripping concern. A cement walkway is being considered as a longer-term solution.
“We have so many plans for our museum and we are always looking for more,” Young said. “Things like improving the walkway for wheelchairs, adding a storage facility and reconfiguring artifact displays all point toward providing patrons with a tour they will enjoy, remember and tell others about.”
Young said preserving local history remains central to the museum’s mission, even if it does not appeal to everyone.
“Local history is not for everyone—we get that—but on the other hand, we have no future without a past to reflect on,” he said.
As part of its ongoing work, the museum will also re-seal the Homecoming 2000 time capsule later this month after adding updated articles. The capsule is now designated to be reopened in 2050.
The Dufferin Historical Society continues to welcome new members. Annual memberships are $10 for individuals or $25 per family. More information is available at info@dufferinhistoricalmuseum.com.
