Fort Whoop-Up attendance increases by 19 per cent

The fort’s doors will reopen for one more day. But officials report Fort Whoop-Up recorded a 19 per cent increase in attendance this summer, even though other some Alberta attractions recorded a loss.

“This is particularly impressive as Travel Alberta indicates that provincial visitation at historic sites and museums was down by 9.3% compared to the previous year,” says Susan Burrows-Johnson, chief executive officer at the Galt Museum and Archives.

Food and ice cream sales at the fort both increased by about 180 per cent, she adds. The Galt has operated the fort for the City since 2016.

“We are grateful to the community for their support during the 2018 season and encourage them to bring their visiting friends and family to the fort for fun, history and ice cream.”

While the fort remains closed for the season, officials say more improvements will be implemented over the winter.

“We’re going to improve costuming, add furs, crates, pots, trade cloths, and more items to rooms throughout the Fort,” says Natasha Gray, the site co-ordinator.

A replica cannon could also be on site next summer, Burrows-Johnson says.

The museum’s curator, Aimee Benoit says work continues to expand “storylines” and displays.

The Blackfoot camp area will also be improved, and staff will be developing the south bastion interpretation.

Before opening for the 2017 season, the visitor experience was improved by the addition of curatorial video and audio and creation of additional interpretive panels, as well as displaying more authentic Blackfoot clothing and replica artifacts to the displays.

Galt officials say partnerships with community organizations were essential to improving the visitor experience. Producing and installing video and audio interpretation throughout the fort, and replacing the previous yellow rope fencing with permanent wood fencing and gates were facilitated by staff on loan from the Yates Theatre while their building was being renovated.

New West Theatre, the South Alberta Horse Artillery, the Chinook Woodturning Guild and the Fort Whoop-Up Black Powder Club also participated in creating special events and authentic experiences for visitors during the season.

The fort will host a winter open house for all ages on Friday, Dec. 21.

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