The Cranbrook Archives, Museum and Landmark Society (CAMAL) is excited to announce the soft opening of Fort Steele Heritage Town on Sunday, June 22, coinciding with the final day of the Spirit of the Rockies Festival.

CAMAL, which also operates the Cranbrook History Centre, became the new operator of Fort Steele earlier this spring. Since then, the team has been working diligently to prepare the site – recruiting summer staff, revitalizing programs, and caring for the site’s livestock as they prepare for public demonstrations and animal husbandry displays.

This soft opening is a chance for us to ease into the season and welcome visitors back as we continue preparing the site. We’ll share more details closer to the date about daily hours and what experiences will be available.

Then starting Saturday, July 5, more programs and activities will begin to roll out as we settle into regular operations.

Fort Steele will be open Thursday through Monday, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The steam train, a longtime visitor favourite, is still undergoing repairs through the Provincial Heritage Branch of BC. While it will not be operational for opening day, CAMAL will provide updates as more information becomes available.

“We’re incredibly proud of the work being done behind the scenes to bring Fort Steele back to life for the community and visitors alike,” said Jared Teneese, Chief Operating Officer. “Our team is committed to honouring the legacy of Fort Steele while creating fresh opportunities for engagement and learning.”

“We’re excited to welcome the community to the soft opening of Fort Steele,” said Keith Powell, CAMAL Board Chair. “Since CAMAL was awarded the opportunity to operate Fort Steele Heritage Town earlier this year, we’ve been looking forward to opening day. Our management team, along with dedicated staff, has been working hard to usher in a new era at Fort Steele Heritage Town.”

Ahead of opening day, CAMAL members are invited to a members-only BBQ on Saturday, June 14 from 5 – 8 p.m. at Fort Steele. This exclusive sneak peek is our way of thanking members for their continued support – with wagon rides, live music, and a fun evening to celebrate the season ahead before the site officially opens to the public.

CAMAL’s Annual General Meeting will take place on Thursday, May 29 at 6 p.m. at the Cranbrook History Centre.

Members and the public are encouraged to attend and learn more about CAMAL’s activities, including updates on both Fort Steele and the Cranbrook History Centre.

To stay up to date, visit our new website at fortsteeleheritagetown.com and follow our new social media channels: Fort Steele Heritage Town on Facebook and @fortsteeleheritagetown on Instagram. Look for our new teal water wheel logo to know you’ve found the official pages.

e-KNOW file photo

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