Connections Past and Present: Alberta and Ukraine
This presentation will explore the strong relationship that exists between Albertans and Ukrainians today. It will explore early Ukrainian settlement in Alberta, the role of the Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village to preserve this story, and how Alberta’s Ukrainian community has grown and become enriched over successive waves of Ukrainian immigration to Canada.
David Makowsky is the Director of the Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village, an open-air museum that provides an interactive exploration of early Alberta settlement history by delivering true-to-life experiences and educational programs based on the Ukrainian experience. As part of his role, David is also administratively responsible for nine provincial historic sites owned and operated by Alberta Arts, Culture and Status of Women.
The Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village Society was founded in 1971 to develop a heritage village commemorating the settlement of east central Alberta by Ukrainians. Soon after, the Society bought the present site and began relocating buildings there from farms and towns of east central Alberta.
The Province of Alberta acquired the site in 1975, and continues to interpret the major theme of “Early Ukrainian Settlement in East Central Alberta to 1930.”
Since that time, more than 40 buildings have been moved to the UCHV where they have been researched, restored, and furnished to their early 20th century appearance. The museum also has a multi-purpose visitor centre with exhibit gallery spaces to provide a closer understanding of early Ukrainian settlement in east central Alberta.
See more about the Ukrainian Village: Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village