From War to Wonders explores influential world events
The Leacock Museum is reopening its doors with a new exhibit, From War to Wonders: Mapping Escapism in a Time of Turmoil, beginning on March 2, 2024.
The exhibit, which will run until October 2024, explores the influential world events of the First World War and the Second World War and how they might have impacted popular fantasy and escapist literature.
“The First World War and Second World War are extremely important parts of Canada’s history, when Canada cemented itself as an independent country,” said Mayor Don McIsaac. “This exhibit combines that history with popular works written at the time, truly showcasing the inspiration that often comes from the darkest times.”
Artifacts provided by local military collectors will be on display along with a myriad of first-edition books and items. Several of the items on display were gifted to Stephen Leacock, Canada’s noted humourist, who spent a great deal of time helping raise money towards the Belgian Relief Fund during the First World War.
“Many well-known stories from Winnie the Pooh to Peter Pan were influenced in some way by their authors’ time as soldiers or participants in the World Wars,” said Amanda Marino, Experience Development Officer. “As part of the From War to Wonders exhibit, we invite guests to ponder the real-life inspiration behind their favourite fantasy novels and beyond.”
The Museum is offering self-guided tours Thursdays to Saturdays weekly until May 2024. Guests are invited to drop in between the hours of 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. (museum closes at 4 p.m.) to explore. Admission is $5 per person. For questions, please call the Museum directly at 705-329-1908.
For more information on the Leacock Museum experience, visit leacockmuseum.ca or follow @leacockmuseum on Facebook and Instagram.