The Muse Blog

Just in time for the first day of summer, the Muse is pleased to announce that we have reopened to the public! Be sure to drop by and say hello.

The Muse staff will be laid off with other non-essential workers of the City of Kenora, effective April 25, in relation to the current COVID-19 situation.

Milk rolls, French Rolls, Milk Biscuits, and Muffins… Delicious! Some delicious roll recipes from Matilda Lees Dods Handbook of Practical Cookery, 1901.

In this 1901 copy of Isabelle Beeton’s Cookery Book there is an authentic Victorian crumpet recipe— time for a tea party!

Calling all regional artists! The Douglas Family Art Centre is now accepting submissions for an upcoming exhibit titled Art in the Time of Corona.

The Five Roses Cookbook was a staple in Canadian kitchens for most of the 20th century. This edition was published in 1915.

The Lake of the Woods Museum actively collects material history (photos, clothing, tools, etc.) relating to the Kenora region. Check out our latest acquisitions!

While chipping the ice away from my windshield yesterday morning, I was reminded of this region’s ice-harvesting industry. Blocks of ice would be carved from the lakes, and placed in ice-boxes (think “wooden fridge”) to keep food fresh.

While we’re all spending time at home it’s a great chance to do some baking! This cookbook was put together by the ladies of the Women’s Auxiliary of St Joseph’s Hospital in the 1930s.

This watercolour by W. J. Phillips makes me think of this time of year, when thin ice hugs the shoreline, and it feels as if a single rainy afternoon could wash away all that’s left of winter.

Lately, we have seen a tonne of thoughtful, creative, and sometimes downright funny ways to keep occupied while at home. Today, anyone with a mobile phone, tablet, or notebook computer can turn their kitchen table into a film studio. In the 1930s and 1940s, handheld 8mm movie cameras like this one from UniveX were the tool of choice.

Missing hockey? Well, at least one MUSE staff member certainly is! Here’s a highlight from our archives: 80 years ago this week, the Kenora Thistles Junior “A” team defeated the Winnipeg Monarchs to become champions of the Manitoba Junior South Division.