Lac La Biche

11 Aug 2023 Blog Lac La Biche, Staff Highlight

Staff Highlight: Marcel Robitaille

What is your role at the museum: I am the tourism and social media coordinator. I am a ‘Jack of All Trades’ at the Museum. Essentially, I run social media, develop new programming opportunities, and design exhibits. I also answer the phones if you ever decide to call in!

What inspired me to work in the museum field: I was originally a radio broadcaster – museums weren’t on my horizon. Early on in my career, it was apparent that I was heavily invested in telling the history of Canada. I used my time within the broadcast booth to create stories involving the history of our country. I delved into story after story, which helped me realize how much I wanted to share these historical stories with the wider public. I went on to get my undergrad in history and a masters in museum studies. With all my experiences, I hope to share my love of history with Lac La Biche County.

What is your favourite part of working at the museum: I’m very new to this museum! Currently, I interact with visitors coming through, creating social media posts through the website and various social medias that the museum uses. Speaking and interacting with the public truly brings home the museum experience for me. Previously, I’ve worked as an interpretive planner and visitor researcher in museums. What that essentially means is that I designed exhibits and galleries largely through the input of what the public wanted! What I truly liked was developing and creating multi-media exhibits that told stories, sometimes educational and all the time entertaining. That’s something I hope to bring to this museum in the years to come!

What is one exhibit that holds a special significance to you and why: I’ve yet had the opportunity to create exhibits at this museum. However, you can see the passion that the current, and previous, staff have put into creating the exhibits here. My personal favourite is the exhibit focused on the Boreal Biome you see as soon as you walk in. The exhibit is truly amazing, the auditory and spatial design of the exhibit is truly a sight to see. In the past, I have designed and researched gallery spaces at the Royal Ontario Museum, and the upcoming Greek Canadian Heritage Museum in Toronto, Ontario. Creating discovery based exhibits, where the public can interact with the exhibit and learn as they go, is something I find particularly rewarding as an exhibit designer.

How do promote the museum’s exhibits and programs to attract visitors: Attracting visitors to the museum’s exhibits is all about creating an amazing promotion campaign! Get to know your audience inside and out – what they love, what sparks their curiosity – and create engaging content that speaks to them. I don’t limit myself to one channel; Lac La Biche Museum has a wide selection of social medias! I also use email, website updates and collaboration to get my message across to Lac La Biche and the county. By understanding the museum’s audience and spreading the exciting ongoings at the Lac La Biche museum, I can draw in visitors and provide them an unforgettable experience!

4 Aug 2023 Blog Lac La Biche, Staff Highlight

Staff Highlight: Jennifer Mueller

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This week’s staff highlight is coming from none other than Jennifer Mueller!

Role: Museum Manager/Director

What inspired me to work in the museum field: I always loved archeology and history from the time I was a small child. There was a farmer’s field across from my childhood home where I could find bits and pieces of old glass and ceramics. Every time it was plowed, I would go and look for new treasures. As a summer student I had an opportunity to work at the Lac La Biche Mission Historical Site, and I really enjoyed learning about local history and developing exhibits. Later in life I had an opportunity to work in the museum field once again and I jumped at the opportunity, and I have been working in the museum field ever since.

What is your favourite part of working at the museum: My favourite part of working at the museum is developing new exhibits. In addition to my managerial duties, I’m fortunate to have an opportunity to create some of the new exhibits installed at the museum as well as at off-site locations every year. I always love getting a chance to choose artifacts I think people will enjoy seeing. I also find developing exhibits feeds my creative side and so it’s wonderful to have a job that gives me the opportunity to put my own creative twists on the exhibits I’ve developed.

What is one exhibit that holds a special significance to you and why: I really enjoyed creating the “100 Years of Women’s Fashion” exhibit. It was one of the first temporary exhibits we developed for the museum when we moved into our new location in 2019. I found the topic to be very interesting and the exhibit itself was quite beautiful showcasing clothing and accessories from the 1890s-1990s.

What do you consider to be the most significant achievement or milestone the museum has accomplished under your leadership?

One significant achievement that stands out for me is when the Lac La Biche Museum won the 2022 Business Award of Excellence in Hospitality and Tourism for the Lac La Biche region. Our staff has worked very hard to create an amazing museum for both visitors and residents to enjoy. We were so honoured to be recognized for our contribution to the tourism industry in the Lac La Biche region.

28 Jul 2023 Blog Lac La Biche, Staff Bio

Staff Highlight: Amy Kryvenchuk

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This week, we’re focusing our staff bio on summer student Amy!

Hello! I’m Amy Kryvenchuk and I’m a summer student at the Lac La Biche Museum. I’m currently working as a curating assistant and learning about the proper way to accession artifacts.

I am a student going into my fourth year of kinesiology at the University of Lethbridge. I was inspired to work at the museum this summer as I grew up in the Lac La Biche area and was curious to gain more knowledge about the historical significance of the Lac La Biche area.

Thanks Amy!

21 Jul 2023 Blog Exhibit, Lac La Biche

Exploring the Backroads of Northeastern Alberta

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Exploring the Backroads of Northeastern Alberta

In the next few days, we have an exciting new exhibit and contest popping up in the museum. Exploring the Backroads of Northeastern Alberta will showcase the local talent of photographers in the county. With a heavy emphasis on talent, the pictures that have been submitted are exceptional – every single one of them.

The exhibit is taking over the genealogy resources we have on the north wall by the front doors. I’ll be sad to see it go but continuous change keeps the museum fresh and exciting. Which is something that we strive for here, continuous change, continuous improvement and a better museum. I digress.

One of the more exciting aspects of the exhibit is that it opens it to you – the visitor! Throughout the month, up till September, the public gets to vote on which one they think stands out amongst the rest. The votes will be tallied up at the end and a winner will be announced on our social media! They also get a prize at the end to boot.

If you have a moment between July 24th and September 28th, step on by and vote!

Exploring the Backroads of Northern Alberta Promo 2

30 Jun 2023 Blog Lac La Biche, Staff

Staff Highlight: Kali Kryvenchuk

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Get ready to meet our amazing staff members as we shine the spotlight on their roles at the museum! Today, we introduce Kali, a passionate summer student from the University of Lethbridge, pursuing her studies in English. She brings her creativity and dedication to contribute to our museum’s initiatives. Stay tuned for more insights into the fantastic work that how staff does!

I’m the museum assistant for the summer which has me doing things like developing the Museum in a Box program and making exhibits. I wanted to work at the museum this summer in order to learn more about the town that I grew up in.

I am going into my third year of English Education at the University of Lethbridge. The school tours the museum gives is one of my favorite parts of working here because any experience interacting with kids will help me in my chosen future career path.

Thanks so much Kali!

23 Jun 2023 Blog Exhibit, HistoryofCamping, Lac La Biche

Upcoming Exhibit – History of Camping

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We are thrilled to announce the unveiling of our new exhibit! Starting July 30th, prepare to be immersed in the captivating worlds of the History of Camping, taking center stage at the Lac La Biche Museum. When we say centre stage, we mean that quite literally. The exhibit will be taking over the entirety of our stage!

This exhibit will transport you through time, showcasing the evolution of camping from its early beginnings to the present day. Explore a collection of vintage tents, discover an array of fascinating camping artifacts, and journey through captivating photographs that will capture the essence of summers past.

Mark your calendars, as this exhibit will be open until September 29th, giving you ample time to visit and experience the nostalgia and wonder of the History of Camping. Don’t miss out on this unique opportunity to delve into the rich outdoor heritage of our region.

Speaking of new content, if you haven’t already, make sure to check out our social media platforms! We regularly share unique insights into our exhibits, exciting promotions, and even offer chances to win prizes. And that’s not all – keep an eye on our Youtube channel for upcoming captivating content, designed to bring the museum experience right to your mobile screen. Stay connected and be part of our vibrant community!

16 Jun 2023 Blog Accessibility, Lac La Biche, Museum Theory

Opening Doors of Inclusion: Exploring Accessibility in Museums

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Every Friday, we’ll be writing new and interesting blog posts! From museum theory, behind the scenes exclusive access to upcoming content, to posts from staff, and everything in between. Stay tuned for exciting content as we roll out an updated website!

To start us off, let’s look at museum theory. There are many concepts that guide museum theory, not just at Lac La Biche, but museums all across Canada. One of which is accessibility, one of the guiding core principles here at the Lac La Biche Museum. Let’s first delve into a bit of a history lesson.

In the past, museums faced numerous challenges when it came to providing access and inclusion for individuals with disabilities. Physical barriers, limited resources and a lack of general awareness hindered the ability of everyone to fully enjoy the museum experience. This all began to change by the second half of the 20^th century as society started to recognize the importance of accessibility. During the 1960s, the disability rights movement that sprang up within North American began to emerge as a powerful force on the political stage. Their rallying cry, “one is not born disabled; one is made disabled by society”, boldly underscored the societal barriers and negative attitudes that perpetuated accessibility issues. This movement resonated deeply among legislators across Canada, at both a federal and provincial level. As a result of these protests and growing awareness, legislation was enacted and amendments made to the Canadian Human Rights Act, which made explicit mention of prohibiting discrimination based on disability. These legislations did not go unnoticed by museums across Canada and began to fundamentally shape guiding core principles and theories.

By the mid 1980s, the concept of visitor centered museums began to gain traction. What that means, is that museums started to recognize the importance of creating experiences that caters to a diverse interest, backgrounds and abilities of the visitor. Physical accessibility improvements, such as ramps, elevators, accessible washrooms and designated parking lots became common features in many museums. As the years turned and technology continued to advance, museums enthusiastically embraced innovative approaches to enhance accessibility. Museums began developing audio tours, multi-sensory exhibits, and immersive virtual reality experiences to engage visitors on multiple levels. More tactile elements began to be in incorporated into museum design, allowing for interactive and hand on exploration. This growing prevalence of digital accessibility empowered museums to create inclusive online programming, just like the website you’re currently exploring! Museums, like Lac La Biche, are committed to continuously improving accessibility and fostering a more inclusive environment. This means that museums are looking past physical accessibility alone. Museums are striving to address sensory, cognitive, social and emotional needs, which ensures that all visitors can fully participate and enjoy the exhibits and programs offered. Through these ongoing efforts, museums are transforming into vibrant and welcoming spaces that celebrate diversity and provide a welcoming experience for everyone.

ICOM (International Council of Museums) defines accessibility as: “the removal of barriers and the provision of inclusive opportunities, ensuring that all individuals, regardless of their background, abilities, or disabilities, can access, engage with, and benefit from museum experiences”. This definition impacts every level of museum work. From interpretive planning, visitor research, curation, design and construction. What does this all mean? Let’s break it down by the 6 ways in which accessibility can be measured in museums: physical, sensory, digital, interpretive, programmatic and attitudinal accessibility. This all starts with creating physical accessibility. Museums and its facilities are designed and equipped to accommodate visitors with mobility needs. Whether this is through wide hallways, elevators, ramps, rest areas and accessible parking. Exhibits are also opened to sensory accessibility. What this means is that the museum provides braille labelling for artifacts, audio guides, tactile elements as well as visual aids within the exhibit spaces. Museums have also embraced the digital age! Most museums have a website that details their exhibits, programming, promotions, and offers alternative text for images, captioned videos and utilizes accessible website design practices. This is what we call digital accessibility. Museums have also taken a more interpretive approach to accessibility design. Within the exhibits, you’ll commonly find materials that are easily read and understood. Text is generally minimal, or short, and is often in two or more languages. Utilizing a more universal design practice within the exhibits, opens the interpretive materials to a wider audience. Designing tours and programming that are sensory friendly, utilizing sign language, when possible, are all aspects of great programmatic accessibility. Lastly, a guiding principle of creating a more inclusive museum is attitudinal accessibility. This means exactly how it sounds. Museums have made a push to promote a more welcoming and inclusive environment by training staff to be respectful and knowledgeable of visitors from a diverse background and abilities.

Lac La Biche Museum is continuously exploring ways in which we can better address systemic accessibility issues and is continuously improving. With your continued support, Lac La Biche Museum will continue to create content, exhibits and materials to better serve and engage our diverse community. We are committed to improving accessibility in all its forms. Your support enables us to design inclusive spaces, provide multi-sensory experiences, enhance our digital presence and develop programs that cater to the unique needs of our visitors. Together we can break down barriers and ensure that everyone, regardless of background can fully enjoy and benefit from the rich cultural and historical resources at Lac La Biche Museum.

28 Aug 2019 Blog archery, Herb Erickson, Lac La Biche, local person

Herb Erickson, 1915 – 2018
Archer of the North

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Herb Erickson was the Lakeland Archers’ oldest living archer. Born to a family living in a homestead on Pinehurst Lake, he was the seventh child of ten. In his childhood he was immersed in the wilderness and gained a great appreciation for the outdoors. He grew up surrounded by Indigenous boys from the Beaver Lake Cree Nation, who were exceptional archers. After repeated requests, one of his companions finally made a bow for him out of willow. He shot his first arrow between the ages of eight and nine. Thus began his passion for archery.

By eighteen years old, Herb was frequently practicing his shooting. He competed at his first provincial archery tournament in 1949. He only had a simple wooden bow, missing many elements that most of his competitors’ bows had. Even so, he astounded his competition with his incredible skill. His shooting method was not the typical aim and release method, but instead he shot by instinct. He fired very quickly, releasing an arrow seconds after the previous one was planted in the target. That 1949 tournament began a provincial winning streak lasting until 1957. That year, he began competing at the national level, and became the archery champion of Canada.

Not only was Herb Erickson known as an archer, but he was also an army veteran, trapper, and poet. In World War II, Herb enlisted in the army and was sent overseas to England. He was injured in the 1944 Battle of Dunkirk . A gunshot to his lower back left him vulnerable, and he was captured by German soldiers. They questioned him, but he refused to give up important information. Three days later, he was rescued by the Allied Forces.

Man in army uniform — Herb Erickson in uniform

After he was discharged from his duties in the war, the Canadian Army suggested that he join the travelling circus. However, Herb wanted to go home. He returned to the homestead that his parents had built and his life as a trapper. He had begun trapping at the age of sixteen; he was a trapper for 44 years and relied almost entirely on trapping for his income. During the Great Depression, Herb was able to trap squirrels and sell them for 9 cents per squirrel, a significant amount of money for the time. His peaceful, healthy lifestyle gave him time to write poetry about things that were important to him.

Herb Erickson was known as a gentle and fun person. He would commonly jump a lasso while spinning it and simultaneously playing the harmonica. With a quick hand, he did magic tricks that astounded those who watched. He used these tricks to amuse children at archery competitions. He was also a fantastic storyteller who could captivate an audience with tales of his trapping trade and the adventures he had experienced. Most importantly, he would help teach young archers and give them assistance if they needed it. His kindness, skill, and lifelong dedication to his craft has left him a hero in the archery world.

Suspension of Research Requests

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Image of Nanton Street, Lac La Biche, Winter 1915 — Nanton Street, Lac La Biche, Winter 1915

Due to our expected move, all research requests will be suspended as of August 1, 2018, for an undetermined length of time as our archives will be unavailable. During this time, we will be preparing our archives for transportation and, if we proceed as expected, setting up our archives in a new facility. Please note that we will still accept research requests, but will likely be unable to fulfill them during this time.

Additionally, we will continue to accept donations for our archives throughout this process. Please make arrangements with our staff as we may be unexpectedly unavailable for drop-in donations after the summer.

If you have an urgent request that is time sensitive, please contact us here and note your request’s urgency. We apologize for any inconvenience.

21 Jun 2018 Blog, Culture, Images, Information Beaver Lake, Buffalo Lake, Cree, Dene, Denesuline, First Nations, Heart Lake, Indigenous, Kikino, Lac La Biche, Metis

National Indigenous Peoples Day

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To celebrate National Indigenous Peoples Day (June 21), our talented staff has put together this Prezi on some of the major Indigenous groups living in our region. The diversity and cultural uniqueness of these many groups is what makes Canada such an amazing country to live in!

To view our Prezi, click on the image below!

Image of Prezi main menu for National Indigenous Peoples Day 2018 — National Indigenous Peoples Day 2018 Prezi (Click the image to view the Prezi! Note: It will take you to a new site.)

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