Canada’s first industry comes alive in Profit and Ambition, the story of the Canadian Fur Trade from 1779-1821, at the Red Deer Museum and Archives.
This travelling exhibition from the Canadian Museum of Civilization examines the heyday of the Canadian fur trade — the 40 years between the formation of the Montreal-based North West Company in 1779 and its amalgamation in 1821 with the London-based Hudson’s Bay Company.
During this period, Western Canada was thoroughly explored and brought within the economic orbit of Montreal, and British North America. However, the North West Company did more than lay the economic and political foundations of what was to become Canada. It also marked the first time the various founding peoples of this country worked closely in one enterprise.
The exhibit, which runs until Dec. 9, also focuses on the roles played by different ethnic and social groups.
l Tonight, author Fred Stenson will read from his book The Trade, which was a finalist for the Giller Prize and winner of a City of Edmonton Book Prize and the Grant MacEwan Author’s Award. Books will be available for purchase.
l On Sunday, First Nations Elder Bertha Poor and her granddaughter Jennifer Poor will share their traditional knowledge about how to craft a medicine bag. Children can make one with adult supervision from 2 p.m. with regular museum admission and a $5 supply fee. (Scissors and hot glue will be used).
l During this MAGnificent Saturday, Oct. 27, make your own pumpkin with artist Carlene La Rue from 1 to 4 p.m. On Saturday, Nov. 3, work with Bodacious Beads with the same artist.
For more information, call 403-309-8445 or 403-309-8446.