The exhibit highlights the work of Dr. Alfred Schmitz Shadd who was the first person of African ancestry known to settle in Saskatchewan. (Melfort and District Museum)

By Cam Lee

Gallery of Trailblazers

‘Gallery of Trailblazers’ Black History Month exhibition coming up in Melfort

Feb 18, 2025 | 2:00 PM

An exhibition honouring the contribution of the Black community in Saskatchewan will be held in Melfort on Wednesday.

The Black History Month exhibition “Gallery of Trailblazers” is opening at the Kerry Vickar Centre, starting at 3 p.m.

Melfort Museum Curator Brenda Mellon told northeastNOW that while Saskatchewan is often associated with European settlers, there is a significant history of Black settlers who contributed in a variety of ways, including farming, community development, and much more.

Part of the opening reception on Wednesday will be the unveiling of a bust of Dr. Alfred Schmitz Shadd, believed to be the first-known person of African descent to be documented in Saskatchewan.

Dr. Shadd settled in the Melfort area and became involved in the community as a doctor, veterinarian, politician, and more. However, his contributions weren’t without struggle as he faced racism when he originally arrived in the area.

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“His presence marks an important part of Saskatchewan’s diverse history, highlighting the resilience and contributions of Black settlers in the region,” said Mellon.

Dr. Shadd will be only one of the major figures in the region to receive recognition at Wednesday’s event. Mellon said the exhibition will also honour the contributions of Dr. Adeyemi “Yemi” Laosebikan and Dr. Foluke Laosebikan.

“Honouring individuals who have made a profound impact on the Melfort area helps preserve and share the diverse history of the community,” explained Mellon. “Recognizing figures like Dr. Shadd, Dr. Yemi Laosebikan, and Dr. Foluke Laosebikan highlights their contributions to medicine, leadership, and community development, inspiring future generations.”

Mellon said the exhibition also fosters a deeper understanding of the region’s rich culture and ensures the achievements of the trailblazers are remembered and acknowledged.

“By celebrating their stories, the community strengthens its connection to the past while embracing the diversity that shapes its present and future.”

The exhibit features a series of 25 prominent Saskatchewan residents, both past and present. Visitors can learn about their contributions in diverse fields like agriculture, medicine, homesteading, arts, entertainment, and the list goes on.

The bust of Dr. Shadd will be on display at the Kerry Vickar Centre until Feb. 28, after which it will be permanently housed at the Melfort Hospital. The idea of a bust came about through a conversation between WeCollaborate and the Melfort & District Museum as both recognized the need to honour Dr. Shadd’s impact in the region. Mellon said the hospital was a logical choice to showcase his achievements due to his contributions to medicine.

Mellon urges people to visit the museum to learn more about the contributions of Dr. Shadd and others. You can also access the book Shadd Drive, an e-book from Garry Forsyth. She said a children’s book called Li’l Shadd has been published in English, French, Cree and Michif, and copies are available for purchase at the museum.

“Many of the exhibition’s profiles were based on research compiled by the Saskatchewan African Canadian Heritage Museum. Additionally, Black and Rural Saskatchewan by Shayna Jones, produced by Heritage Saskatchewan, will be available at the exhibition, with extra copies at the museum,” said Mellon.

The University of Saskatchewan’s Prince Albert Campus is also hosting a celebration for Black History Month Feb.26.

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Cam.lee@pattisonmedia.com