The Town of Altona is taking a fresh and inclusive look at its past with a new multi-phase history project that aims to make local stories more accessible to residents, newcomers and visitors alike.
The initiative, funded through the 2025 municipal budget, was identified as a priority in Altona’s 2023 strategic plan and reflects the community’s commitment to preserving and presenting its heritage in creative, engaging and meaningful ways.
“Our past has shaped the fabric of the community today, and as we plan for the future, it’s good to also recognize where we’ve come from,” said Mayor Harv Schroeder. “It also makes good sense to have a fresh look at the history of our community and update how we present that information in recognition of the ways our community has grown and changed over the years.”
At the heart of the project is local historian Dr. Susie Fisher, who brings a wealth of academic expertise and a deep connection to the community.
Fisher holds a PhD in Canadian history from the University of Manitoba with a research focus on immigration and settlement in the west reserve. She also holds a Master’s degree in Mennonite religion and ethnicity and has lived and worked in the Altona area for over a decade.
“Initially, I was looking at maybe exploring a historical walking tour of Altona, where people could go to different points in town and scan a QR code to get information about the history of this place,” said Fisher.
“But now my job is to do the research phase of a broader, multi-phase project. The overarching goal is to make the history of Altona more accessible and to celebrate the moments that have shaped this place.”
Phase one, which runs from June 2025 to January 2026, is all about research and development.
Dr. Fisher will conduct archival research at local and provincial archives, collect 100 high-resolution historical photos, and prepare a 50–100 page document that tells the story of Altona from the 1870s to today.
The project will highlight key themes including Indigenous history, land, immigration, religion, economics, sports and recreation.
“We’re trying to tell a new story. It’s not just about Mennonite immigration anymore. We want to know what was here before Mennonite settlers arrived, how the land was used and how other communities have contributed to this place,” said Fisher. “A big part of this is also making sure Indigenous stories are included. To not include them is to draw a bracket around history that is false.”
The final document will be written in plain, accessible language to appeal to a wide audience and will form the foundation for the next stages of the project.
Phase two will focus on public delivery of the information through digital platforms and physical installations, possibly including interpretive signage and a digital walking map.
A potential site for a permanent exhibit is the green space at the corner of 2nd St. NE and 4th Ave. NE, where the cenotaph once stood. Council has expressed interest in transforming the space into a welcoming, park-like area that blends heritage with thoughtful design.
Schroeder emphasized the community-building aspect of the initiative.
“We plan to deliver the information in different ways and hope that residents and visitors connect to the stories that made Altona the community it is today.”
Community collaboration is a key component of the project. The town is inviting residents to contribute their stories, photos and personal histories to enrich the narrative. Those interested can reach out to communications officer Sarah Cail at communications@altona.ca or 204-324-6468.
Dr. Fisher and Cail are also working on ways for residents to share their materials digitally or through in-person gatherings.
“There might be photos in people’s personal archives that we’ve never seen before, of buildings or landscapes in town. It’ll be neat to bring all those stories together,” Fisher said. “We have deep roots here, and those personal perspectives will help broaden the understanding of how this place has evolved.”
The initiative also includes exploring grant opportunities to help fund Phase two and beyond. Fisher has already begun identifying potential sources and will work alongside town administration to pursue them.
Ultimately, the success of the project will be measured by how well it resonates with the people who call Altona home and those who visit.
“I hope that residents, newcomers and visitors all find parts of Altona’s story that they can connect with and find parts that they can learn something new from,” said Schroeder.
As Dr. Fisher puts it, the goal is not simply to document the past but to reimagine it through a lens that is inclusive, reflective and rooted in both scholarly research and community voices.
“A historian’s job is always to start with the archive, to see what’s already available and what can be dug up,” she said. “But the magic happens when you start to weave those facts into a story that connects people to the place they live in. I’m excited that the town approached me to do this—it’s renewing my love of history, and we hope it ignites curiosity in others.”
