Kootenay Doukhobor Historical Society

The Kootenay Doukhobor Historical Society became incorporated on February 18, 1969. Through significant volunteer labour and funding from local, provincial and federal governments, the reconstruction of the authentic Doukhobor village was completed as a Centennial Project for the towns of Castlegar and Kinnaird. The official opening took place on November 13, 1971.

The original Executive and Committee members in the first few years were John Allan, Mary Anderson, Nick Bonderoff, Tom Cavanagh, Jim Cromwell, Judy Fraser, Anna Gattinger, Polly Hoodicoff, Peter Kinakin, Grace Makortoff, John Mansbridge, Bill Merilees, Ed Mosby, Jack Nichvalodoff, Peter Oglow, John Paluck, Sue Port, Mike Sawchenko, Trilok Sindwani, Harold Webber, Mary Woodrow, and Mike Zoobkoff. Christine Faminoff became the permanent guide, a position she held from the museum opening in 1971 until her death in 1999.

Our Mission

The mission of the Kootenay Doukhobor Historical Society is to preserve and exhibit the historic cultural heritage and home industries of the Doukhobor peoples in a traditional communal village setting.

Our Vision

The vision of the Kootenay Doukhobor Historical Society is to develop and maintain a traditional cultural museum and archives of the Doukhobor peoples for future interests and studies through programs of education.

Membership

Kootenay Doukhobor Historical Society members in good standing are granted free admission to the Doukhobor Discovery Centre, receive a biannual newsletter, have a voice in museum exhibit and program development, and have the opportunity to join KDHS Board of Directors. Annual membership fees are $10 per year. For more information, or to join the Kootenay Doukhobor Historical Society, please visit our membership page.