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The Future of Onoway’s Threshing Bee
Since 2007, the old-fashioned Threshing Bee has been a cherished part of Onoway’s Fall Harvest Festival. Over the years, it’s been hosted at several venues—Wade Ertman’s farm, Gordon Adam’s, Brian Turnbull’s, and most recently, at the Onoway Museum. Under the dedicated leadership of Brian Turnbull and with the help of many volunteers, the sights and sounds of the past have come alive once again—threshing machines clattering, tractors rumbling, and wagons rolling. It’s an experience that brings back fond memories for longtime residents and offers an unforgettable history lesson for younger generations.
For 18 years, the Onoway and District Historical Guild has proudly organized this unique event. But now, as we look ahead to 2025, we’ve reached a turning point. Mr. Turnbull is ready to pass the torch, and for the Threshing Bee to continue, we need a new organizer to step forward. The foundation is already in place—a crop has been made available on Kevin Bartel’s land, the equipment is ready, a successful template exists, and Brian has committed to help the transition. What’s missing is someone to lead the way.
With Fall Harvest Festival attendance reaching over 1,000 people in recent years, it’s clear the community values this event. But without a new coordinator and a strong team of volunteers, the 2025 Threshing demonstration may not happen.
If you’d like to help preserve this important piece of agricultural heritage—whether by volunteering, organizing, or bringing new ideas to the table—please contact Brandon at the museum office at 780-967-1015 or email admin@onowaymuseum.ca.
Let’s keep this proud tradition alive, for future generations.
Volunteer with Us
Looking to build your resume, meet great people, or just do something meaningful with your time?
Volunteering at the Onoway Museum and Heritage Centre is a fun, flexible way to get involved — no matter your age or experience level.
Why Volunteer?
We offer a wide variety of volunteer opportunities — from helping with events, organizing exhibits, and assisting in rentals, to doing research, working on promotions, helping with school tours, or even pitching in with facility maintenance or tech support.
Whether you're into history, creativity, planning, detective work, or just want to lend a hand, there’s something here for you!
No experience? No problem. We’ll work with your interests and help you build real-world skills you can put on a resume or job application.
What’s the Commitment?
There’s no set schedule — volunteer as much or as little as you like. Whether you have a few hours, or an afternoon to spare now and then or want to help regularly, we’re grateful for any time you can give.
What You’ll Get
Experience that looks great on a resume
A chance to explore your interests in a hands-on way
A welcoming, supportive environment
Opportunities to connect with the community and make new friends
That awesome feeling that comes from making a difference
Whether you're a student, a retiree, or somewhere in between, we’d love to have you on board.
Curious? Have questions? Just reach out — we’re happy to chat and help you find your fit.
Come be part of something local, meaningful, and fun.
Become a Member
Membership is $10.00 per calendar year. Members can attend General Meetings held every 3rd Thursday of the month at the Heritage Centre at 7 PM.
Donate
Monetary donations are welcome. We accept cash, cheque and card at our office. You may also donate online through canadahelps.org. We also accept artifact donations that are significant to local history.
The Onoway and District Historical Guild gratefully acknowledges funding assistance from:
Alberta Museums Association
Alliance Pipelines
Community Facility Enhancement Program
Community Foundation
Community Police Radio Network
FCSS Edmonton
FCSS Onoway
Government of Alberta
Government of Canada
Lac Ste. Anne County
Town of Onoway