Heritage Winnipeg
cordially invites you to attend our
ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

Thursday, September 28th, 2023
6:00 pm to 7:00 pm

Millennium Centre · 389 Main Street
DOORS OPEN AT 5:30 PM
free street parking starts at 5:30 pm

keynote presentation
MATT COHEN: GHOST SIGNS

Have you ever noticed the fading signs high up on the sides of buildings in the Exchange District, showcasing everything from ham to window cleaner? Starting in the 1880s, businesses would commission these giant hand painted advertisements, which used bricks as their canvas. Over the past century or more, the images have been added to, painted over and left to fend for themselves against the weather, resulting in the faded impressions of Winnipeg’s past that are now called ghost signs. Matt Cohen, a ghost sign enthusiast and award winning tour guide, has been documenting and celebrating Winnipeg’s ghost signs since 2013. Come learn about the fascinating ghost signs found throughout this historic neighbourhood, and Matt’s latest project, Winnipeg’s second permanent ghost sign light installation produced in collaboration with light artist Craig Winslow. First illuminated during Nuit Blanche Winnipeg 2023, the Porter-Milday Ghost Sign will be projected onto the 1906 Porter Building at 165 McDermont Avenue, displaying advertisements for both Porter and Company (a household goods retailer) and the Galpern Candy Manufacturers’ Milady Chocolates brand. It is sure to be a spirited presentation that you will not want to miss!

Heritage Winnipeg's Annual Report 2022-2023