BONNYVILLE – The Bonnyville Museum is in the process of adding another building to its grounds.
The Bonnyville and District Historical Society is looking to relocate the St. Anne Chapel, which is currently residing on 47th Ave. beside the Bonnylodge, and have reached out to local councils for financial assistance.
Morris Mickalyk, president of the Bonnyville Historical Society, told town council in a letter that the prospect of having the chapel at the museum was exciting, due to its historic significance to Bonnyville and the Eastbourne community.
“Through the preservation of the chapel, we will foster a greater understanding and appreciation for the Roman Catholic history in the region,” he added. “It will truly complement our existing buildings, exhibitions, and programming.”
The local historical society requested a one-time contribution of $20,000 from the town to go toward 50 per cent of the moving costs. Council approved financially supporting the endeavor during their April 13 meeting.
“We’re in the process of applying for grants and sponsorships to assist with the other costs of the project - ground and foundation preparation, building restoration, exhibition display, (among others). Our building fund reserve will also assist with the expenses,” Mickalyk detailed.
The historical society accepted the donation of the building from the St. Louis Parish during their own meeting on March 31.
“The historic significance of this project, combined with the community partnerships that will be developed for its success, are the heart and soul of our organization,” explained Mickalyk. “The Bonnyville Museum is the gem of our community, developed through the hard work and dedication of countless individuals and businesses, along with the support of our municipalities.”
The plan to move the chapel frees up space beside the Bonnylodge, which was also factored into the deal.
Coun. Ray Prevost, who also a member of the historical society and Lakeland Lodge and Housing Foundation, said the foundation has the intention of purchasing the land.
“We have no green space at the lodge at all. It’s concrete all around,” Prevost said.
Prevost said he began making calls to see if the Diocese of St. Paul had any interest in donating the church to the Bonnyville Historical Society. A deal was worked out that included the Lakeland Lodge and Housing Foundation buying the empty lot.
According to Prevost, the chapel was first built in the 1930s.
“It’s a huge piece of history that’s been here since 1960. Prior to that, it was in Eastbourne somewhere, around 1939. It’s an important issue for the historical society and extremely important for Lakeland Lodge and Housing as well.”
This isn’t the first time there have been discussions around moving St. Anne’s Chapel, Prevost stated. He said there was interest about 10 years ago to relocate the facility, but a bishop wasn’t in place at the time and no decision was made.
The historical society has also sent a request to the MD of Bonnyville for a one-time contribution of $20,000 to assist with moving the building.
Robynne Henry, Bonnyville Nouvelle
