McBeth House wins Hidden Gem award

Hey there, time traveller!
This article was published 24/07/2017 (3270 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Near the west bank of the Red River, surrounded by mature trees and grassy grounds is a huge gorgeous heritage house. The McBeth House Centre is tucked away in the Rivergrove neighbourhood at 31 McBeth St.

I have lived in the area for 25 years and have walked past the house many times — but only recently did I visit.

McBeth House participated in Doors Open Winnipeg on May 28, when a total of 253 people, including myself, toured the heritage home. At the 14th annual Doors Open Winnipeg People’s Choice awards 2017, McBeth House was named winner of  Hidden Gem award.

The current house was built in 1912 by Robert McBeth and remained in his family for 60 years. Isabel, the last surviving McBeth daughter, willed the house to the city in 1984 and it was been declared an historic building, a designation which prevents its demolition.

McBeth House has a long and interesting history — this article is not about the past, but rather about the present and the future of the centre.

According to Isabel’s will, McBeth House Centre is to be primarily managed and used by seniors. It is also to be made available for use to all age groups and should also include a strong social service component.

Presently, McBeth House Centre offers several social activities for seniors, including quilting, card games, and porcelain painting. It also offers barbecues, dinners and bus trips for seniors. A Scout group and Girl Guide group also use the facility. COPP (Citizens on Patrol) meet in the house as well.

I recently met with Edna Krosney, president of McBeth House Centre. She is a volunteer who works endless hours and has a vision for the future. She wants the centre to be a welcoming place for the entire community. 

The centre is run by volunteers and members, and relies heavily on grants. City councillor Devi Sharma (Old Kildonan) has been a staunch supporter. Edna is looking to increase membership and to offer new activities, speakers, and programs.

Edna would love to see the house used more frequently by the community. She hopes to bring in the Get Better Together program for people managing ongoing health conditions. She has invited the police academy to do a safety presentation for seniors. Future ideas include a paint night, gardening workshops and a book club. 

Yearly memberships to McBeth House Centre cost only $15. If you live in the area, consider joining and, if you have ideas for new activities, feel free to contact Edna at 204-669-3972. 

McBeth House Centre has limitless potential. Let’s help make it a truly vibrant centre of our community. 

Joanne O’Leary is a community correspondent for Riverbend. Contact her at jeffandjoanne@hotmail.com