Nellie’s Homes Continue to Attract Many Visitors The Nellie McClung Heritage Site has seen lots of activity since opening this spring, and is having a terrific season thus far.
Tourist traffic is growing in bus tours and school groups. Visitors have come from all across Canada (BC to Quebec), from Arizona, Hawaii, and last week a group from the Federated Women’s Institutes of Canada.
The FWI of Canada is a national organization made up of Women's Institutes from across the country. They held their Triennial Convention in Winnipeg last week and included a day trip to Nellie’s Homes and the International Peace Gardens.
Conference organizer Joan Clement of Russell, MB stated, “Nellie McClung fought for so many issues that the Women’s Institutes also strive to support, that it only made sense to stop at the Nellie McClung Heritage Site.”
Among this group, were visitors from each of the Canadian provinces, as well as the president of the international Associated Country Women of the World, Ruth Shanks of Australia, and vice president Margaret Yetman of Newfoundland.
In Manitoba, the WI didn't start until 1910 with a first chapter in Morris, a year before Nellie left Manitou.
She was actually the first President of the WI in Edmonton (once she moved to Alberta) and worked alongside Emily Murphy (of the Famous Five) to develop the FWIC nationally. Murphy became the President in 1919 while Nellie was in charge of publicity.
An exciting addition to the Nellie McClung Heritage Site this year is the on-site gift shop. There is a great selection of Nellie McClung souvenirs, as well as some of the books she had written which are also for sale. Also displayed are many unique items from local artisans available to purchase.
All are encouraged to pop in and see what’s new - it’s not just for tourists. Stop in and see summer students Brooklyn Nichol and Dayna Lea. They are there Tuesday to Sunday from 11 to 7 and would be pleased to show you their gift store items, or even give you a tour of Nellie’s Homes. |
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