Two new exhibits are premiered at the Okotoks Museum and Archives today.

The first exhibit coincides with the 80th anniversary of the start of the Second World War, and highlights the Okotokians who were active at the beginning of the war.

Museum Specialist Kathy Coutts says Okotokians were lining up pretty soon after war was declared.

"When war was declared, Okotoks residents almost immediately enlisted. This exhibit acknowledges the role that Okotoks played right at the start of the war."

Coutts says she uncovered some interesting information on the women of Okotoks during that time.

"Canada learned a lot from World War One, and realized right from the onset that women were going to play an important role. Not so much in active service, but just being prepared to participate in any way they can. That volunteer registry for women started within the first month: September of 1939."

The exhibit features various artifacts from the war, as well as information on the Okotokians who were involved, and an audio element in the form of songs and radio broadcasts from the era.

Also premiering today is the Lower School exhibit.

A faux classroom has been created, featuring school desks, a chalkboard, and original workbooks from the school's decades in operation are on display.

Photographs of the grades 1-6 classes over the years are on display, as well as written memories from former students.

 

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