O'LEARY – Although it's still early in the tourism season, many Islanders showed up at the re-opening of The Canadian Potato Museum in O'Leary, Prince Edward Island.
Summerside resident Christine McNeill, with her husband Peter and daughters Isabelle and Claira, took in the sights and enjoyed some of the treats made available at the concession stand.
"I saw this event advertised in a local paper and made it a point to be here," she said.
The one-time 7,000-square-foot facility has been renovated into a 14,000-square-foot, world-class attraction.
Much of the credit for the improvements went to the guidance of Harvey Sawler and his experience with a number of large tourism attractions.
The federal and provincial governments both contributed money for a new building, built to house the museum's antique farm equipment. National Revenue Minister Gail Shea and P.E.I.'s Rural Development Minister Ron MacKinley were on hand to celebrate the re-opening.
"This museum is a source of pride for our board," said Gary Linkletter, chairman of the P.E.I. Potato Board.
Potatoes are a billion dollar industry on the Island. Along with the new building, several renovations have made it easier to navigate the museum.
The museum is open from May 15 to Oct. 15, with the P.E.I. Potato Country Kitchen opening on June 15 to Sept. 30.
Other points of interest on the property include the Little Red Schoolhouse, Heritage Chapel and telephone office.
