The Hillcrest Museum will be opening the first weekend in June, and continue through that month weekends only, with school tours taking place during the week.  The full summer season will officially begin July 1st.

“Squire Hall”, as it was originally named when built, was constructed in 1910, commissioned the son of Souris’ founder, Squire Sowden, Fred Sowden.  It was designed by a local architect Carter Brindle.  Features included in this castle overlooking the Souris River include, an etched glass entrance, ornate wooden staircase, unique stained-glass windows, outdoor verandas, pressed tin ceilings, original woodwork, as well as displays of furniture, clothing and household items showcasing life as it was for the Squire family in the late 1800's and early 1900's. 

The museum also boasts of an amazing butterfly collection of over 5,000 butterflies mounted in glassed encasements - and THAT is a must see!

Katrina Spangler is going into her 4th year as administrator and museum tour guide.  "We have some new items here at the museum, some new photos of Souris that were donated.  Everything is nice and cleaned up for the summer season."

Last summer being the first post-pandemic summer months allowed to be open to the public, the Hillcrest Museum saw many Souris residents and visitors peruse through their halls and rooms.  "After Covid last year, it was a shock!  We had so many people come by, and we saw so many new faces from outside of our community, so we hope to have another really good summer this year!"

Staffing will include summer students to assist in guiding tours through the building, and share the rich history of the Sowden family and the Souris area.

Summer hours for July and August:

  • 10am - 5pm every day of the week
  • 10am - 7pm Fridays and Saturdays

(Photo below:  Katrina Spangler poses for a picture in the iconic Butterfly Room)