The impact Canadians made on the First World War is the latest exhibit being showcased at the Lloydminster Cultural and Science Centre.
Fighting in Flanders: Gas. Mud. Memory is a travelling exhibit from the Canadian War Museum that focuses on the Canadian experience in Belgium. Manager Shawna Maurice says she wanted to bring the exhibit to Lloydminster because it is the 100th anniversary of the end of World War 1.
“I think it relates to a lot of current events going on so it kind of brings it home to a lot of the younger generation who didn’t witness this first hand but see it going on in the world. It also resonated with seniors and our elderly population because they may have known someone who did fight in this war.”
There are two battles that are depicted, the Second Battle of Ypres and the Battle of Passchendaele. Along with the battles, the showcase addresses the memorial effort in the war and will have original artifacts displayed such as uniforms. Maurice says the response so far has been good with people specifically coming to LCSC for the exhibit.
“It’s just good for them to remember the sacrifice that was made for Canadians to have the country they have today. We wouldn’t have the freedom we have today if we didn’t go to fight for the British empire at that time and for them to make a connection of things they’re seeing in the news. History repeats itself unless we break the cycle.”
The exhibit will run until September 22 and on July 17 there will be a special viewing with artwork from students at E.S. Laird Middle School. Tickets are $25 for the viewing and $7.50 for regular admission.