First World War memories are being showcased at the Galt Museum.
Every first and third Wednesday afternoons of the month, the Galt Museum holds an exhibit pulling various letters from their permanent display of southwestern Alberta history.
Last Wednesday, Glenn Miller, a retired warrant officer and history enthusiast, spoke about letters from Sgt. Jack Murray of the 20th Battery, who served in First World War.
“This program is great as we are leading up to Remembrance Day. Glenn Miller is a long-time friend of the museum and very knowledgeable on the history of war,” says Leslie Hall, community program co-ordinator at the Galt.
The exhibit follows the letters that Murray sent home to his family and friends during his four years at war.
The letters detail his experiences, from his training time in Camp Hughes in Shilo, Man. to his daily life and experiences of battle. The photos and letters were donated to the museum archives collection from Murray’s family.
“These archives give us a personal connection to the war, more than just facts and images,” Miller said.
“The most interesting thing that I take away from these letters is that Murray is just a regular guy, a fellow that liked to say ‘gee whiz’ a lot.”
After the display of letters, the public was given a chance to see the letters and ask Miller questions.
“I am motivated by three words, lest we forget, and you can’t forget what you don’t know,” Miller said before wrapping up the display.
(Glenn Miller shows Caleb DeMaere letters written during WW1) Photo by Jen Golletz