Category: Board

We are saddened to share that one of our memorial benches at the Clayton McLain Memorial Museum was vandalized sometime on or before August 15. This bench was more than just a place to rest, it was a tribute to John and Janet Robertson and a symbol of remembrance on our museum grounds. Janet was the first tenant of Forest Court and chose unit 1 for its sunny exposure, this unit also has a view of the pond and Museum grounds, where the memorial bench would later be placed.

The damage is significant, and the cost to replace the bench is approximately $3,500. As a non-profit organization with limited income, we are turning to our community for help. Every donation, no matter the size, brings us closer to restoring this meaningful tribute and eases the financial burden on our museum.

DROP OFF: Cut Knife Library during open hours or left with a Museum Board member.
ONLINE DONATIONS: One time or monthly giving available via Credit Card, PayPal, or Google Pay through Canada Helps Charity.

We also encourage everyone to spend time touring the museum grounds and to report any suspicious activity to the RCMP. Your vigilance helps protect the legacy we all share.

Let’s come together to honor the memory of those commemorated by this bench and show that our community stands strong in preserving its heritage.

Thank you for your support and generosity.

~ Clayton McLain Memorial Museum Board

In 2020, Ovenstown, the CMMM’s Registration and Tourist Info Centre since 1971, had to be demolished. Record-setting rains had weakened its foundation and the very tough decision was made to have it bulldozed. Artefacts, display cases, and gift shop items had to be relocated. So did its power supply.

The lines were run under the road to a new panel box near the walking path. This location was intended to serve the Duvall House for events, etc. And, it served very well until a few weeks ago when the staff began having issues with the breakers flipping. The electricians were called in and they concluded it was time to upgrade the relocation work done earlier.

Folks, the CMMM is a volunteer-run, not-for-profit organization. Its funders are SaskCulture, Sask Lotteries, the Town of Cut Knife, the R.M. of Cut Knife, the Cut Knife & District Rec. Board, and the very kind support of community members and visitors. The Museum has a 10-year plan and budget for the maintenance and upkeep of the 12 Heritage buildings onsite. Unfortunately, the budget does not include an invoice for electrical work.

If you would like to assist the Museum with this unexpected expense, please visit the Donation page of the website. There are details on how to donate via cash, cheque, e-transfer, and now, credit card and monthly giving through Canada Helps. Thank you, in advance, for any amount at all you’re able to donate.

~ Debbie M.