Dalnavert Museum Programs

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Dalnavert, built for Sir Hugh John Macdonald in 1895, is an excellent example of Victorian architecture and a wonderful source of information about the lifestyle of an upper-class family in Victorian Winnipeg. The house is maintained as if the Macdonald family was still living in the home today.

School and Day Care Tours

Students have an opportunity to enjoy the atmosphere of the Victorian age, an age of contrasts. Using the house as an educational tool allows the students to actively engage in the process of enquiry and discovery first hand, concrete experience that demands discussion, observation, inference and questioning.

Option 1: Museum Tour

We’ll transport your students back in time with an engaging and age-appropriate tour full of the majesty of Victorian society in 1895 Winnipeg. Examine artifacts and household items, learn about the Macdonalds and their connection with our city and province, and explore the attic space and Dalnavert’s unique architectural features.

Duration: about 1 hour

Cost: $1.75 per student, including GST, teachers/chaperones – no charge (adults free at a ratio of 1 per 10 students, additional chaperones charged admission)

Option 2: Museum Tour and “Coat-of-Arms” Craft Activity

Appropriate for elementary school-aged students.

This option includes a complete tour of Dalnavert followed by students creating their own, personalized coat-of-arms. Instruction on the historical uses of coats-of-arms will be provided, as well as examining the Macdonald’s crest (as seen in one of Dalnavert’s stained glass windows). Students will be encouraged to produce a set of symbols that best describe themselves, family and/or friends, as well as create their own motto.

Note: This activity can be tailored to suit varying grade/age levels.

Duration: about 2 hours

Cost: $2.75 per student, including GST, teachers/chaperones – no charge (adults free at a ratio of 1 per 10 students, additional chaperones charged adult admission)

Birthday Parties

A truly unique experience for your child and their friends, a birthday party at Dalnavert offers a distinctive blend of education and entertainment.

Option 1: Museum Tour, Tea and “Calling Card” Craft Activity

Children receive a full tour of Dalnavert, followed by our “Calling Card” craft activity, and tea. Explore all the treasures in the house while learning about the social customs and etiquette of the day. Children will design and make their own calling cards, similar to the ones received by Lady Macdonald from her circle of friends and acquaintances. Enjoy fruit tea in china cups, along with a selection of cookies – all served in Dalnavert’s attic or outside on the verandah.

Duration: about 2½ hours

Cost: $9.50 plus GST per child, chaperones – no charge (up to 2 chaperones free, additional adults charged admission)

Option 2: Tour, Tea and “Coat of Arms” Craft Activity

Children will receive a full tour of Dalnavert, have the opportunity to design and create their own, personalized coat-of-arms, and enjoy tea and cookies. After exploring Dalnavert – and viewing the Macdonald family crest – children will get creative in making a coat-of-arms that best reflects themselves, their friends and/or family, as well as developing their own personal motto. Afterwards enjoy fruit tea and cookies, served in the attic or outside on the verandah.

Duration: about 2½ hours

Cost: $9.50 plus GST per child, chaperones – no charge (up to 2 chaperones free, additional adults charged admission price)

Note: Parents are welcome to bring birthday cake and candles (no sparklers, please). In addition to tea and cookies, Dalnavert provides all serving ware (plates, cups, utensils, napkins, etc.) “Goody bags” and any additional beverages are to be supplied by the parents.

Booking information

Reservations for school/daycare tours and birthday parties can be made in person or by phoning 943-2835. Please allow two weeks notice. Payment is due in full the day of your booking. Cash, cheque, Visa, and debit payments accepted.

Seniors

Dalnavert is pleased to offer an individual discount rate for seniors. Enjoy the charm and nostalgia of the Museum, or browse the Gift Shop in our newly constructed Visitors’ Centre with its sweeping views of the Museum and our gardens.

For larger groups (10 or more) please contact the museum to book tour guides.

Note: While our Visitors’ Centre is fully accessible to all, Dalnavert Museum has a number of stairs that may be a challenge to some. Please inform us of any special needs when you call.

Page revised: 19 July 2009