The Jewish Heritage Centre of Western Canada is an incorporated non-profit multi-faceted organization, which brings together the Jewish Historical
Society of Western Canada, the Marion & Ed Vickar Jewish Museum of Western Canada, the Genealogical Institute, the Jewish Historical Society
Archives, and the Freeman Family Foundation Holocaust Education Centre.
Please note that while our offices are closed to the public due to COVID-19, our museums allow for safe physical distancing and remain open.
We have pivoted to online events until it is safe to return to in-person presentations.
statement of purpose
To develop, interpret and disseminate information on the history and culture of western Canadian Jewry and to develop awareness of the history, moral and ethical implications of the Holocaust and other human rights violations.
our mission
To document, preserve and share information on the culture and historical formation of Jewish communities in Western Canada. The Centre also serves as an advocate for anti-racism and education on the Holocaust and Antisemitism.
our vision
To forge a pathway for the future by preserving and sharing compelling stories and educating the present and future generations.
Our Mandate
To collect and preserve the records, artefacts and traditions of our community. These treasures include more than 70,000 photographs and Jewish community newspapers from 1910 to the present, oral histories and other materials;
To present programs and exhibits about the history, experiences, achievements and culture of the Jewish community;
To maintain and expand a searchable and detailed database of Jewish gravestones in Manitoba and further afield;
To promote the awareness and understanding of the history of the Holocaust through education—reaching thousands of students and educators each year. We address the fact that society continues to witness genocide due to continuing racism and hatred and that we must all be vigilant in opposing racism, antisemitism and other forms of bigotry.
70,000+
Photographs from 1870s to today including daguerrotypes, carte-de-visite, panoramas, negatives, polaroids, prints and digital photos.
4,000+
Artefacts including religious paraphernalia, medical and pharmaceutical items, military jackets, pins and awards, clothing, dolls, trophies and sports memorabilia.