Manitou has created a special exhibit to mark the return of Nellie McClung's original homes to the community.

The exhibit, housed at the Manitou Opera House, features photos and documents from McClung's time in Manitou, items from the now closed Archibald museum, as well as the 'Nice Women Don't Vote' exhibit from the Manitoba Museum.

"We wanted to put together some kind of exhibit that would really add context for who this family was," Al Thorleifson, member of the Culture and Heritage Committee, explains.  "Why were they in Manitou and why did Nellie McClung become the wonderful social justice warrior she became."

A prominent Canadian author, politician, feminist and social activist, McClung played a large role in bringing about women's right to vote in 1916.

McClung began her years in Manitou in 1889 as a teacher. She would later return to Manitou where she met her husband Wesley.

Thorleifson explains learning about McClung's life and women's struggle for their rights is important, adding McClung's role as a leader in women's rights is often overlooked.

"Too many of us forget our own stories," he says. "We in Canada as adults have become too complacent. We've got it so good, that we tend to forget that Canadians' have the rights we do because of the campaigns, and awareness of problems our ancestors saw."

The McClung exhibit opened August 8 and runs until September 15 at the Manitou Opera House.

McClung's homes have been repaired and will be opened on September 8 during the Manitou Honey Garlic and Maple Syrup Festival.