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Stored Natural History Collection
circa 1992
The Pas, Manitoba, Canada


Credits:
Paul Thistle
Sam Waller Museum Collection

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The Museum was half completed by 1990 but was still far behind schedule and still hindered by even more problems. The four phases of construction were as follows: Phase 1 was selective demolition, Phase 2 was external and structural work, Phase 3 was interior finishes, and Phase 4 was the first phase of the exhibits. Out of the four phases of construction and setup: Phase 1 of 4 was complete, Phase 2 of 4 however was not complete due to several outstanding deficiencies (53 week overrun), Phase 3 of 4 experienced water damage, window suppliers had to be changed, measurement errors and misread architectural drawings, multiple foreman replacements, and at this point, Phase 4 of 4 was not even planned to begin until 1991.

By 1990 the roof vents were not installed as there were serious concerns regarding condensation and its effect on the roof warranty. In addition, the shop drawings received for the windows were incorrect and had to be redone. Towards the end of 1990 the drywalling, plumbing, and electrical work finally got underway. In 1991 the alarm system was installed.

The windows and front door were not the originals but had been replaced with look-alikes in much better condition.

On the 14th of September 1991, the Museum was inaugurated, assumed regional status, and officially adopted its new name as the Sam Waller Museum.

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Fred Madrigga
circa 1992
The Pas, Manitoba, Canada


Credits:
Paul Thistle
Sam Waller Museum Collection

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In 1994, five years after the first estimated deadline, the Museum was finally completed. In March of that year, May and George Bridle were given the first honorary life memberships to the Museum and were the largest single contributors for donations. In November, the grand opening of the permanent exhibits took place.

Even with all the problems surrounding the renovation and move to the Courthouse, the Sam Waller Museum continues to bring in visitors from all over the world as well as school groups, daycares, and summer day camps. Sam Waller never lived to see his wonderful collection housed in the kind of building it deserved, but his legacy lives and grows as a permanent symbol of the culture of The Pas and surrounding areas.

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Board, Staff and Model of New Exhibits
circa 1994
The Pas, Manitoba, Canada


Credits:
Paul Thistle
Sam Waller Museum Collection