Nonsuch Conservation

In 1668, the original Nonsuch sailed into Hudson Bay in search of furs and was instrumental in establishing commerce in Western Canada. Today, the iconic replica needs your help.

The Nonsuch at The Manitoba Museum

The Nonsuch needs your help. Help conserve her legacy.

In 1668, the original Nonsuch sailed into Hudson Bay in search of furs. The voyage led to the founding of the Hudson's Bay Company two years later, and was instrumental in establishing commerce in Western Canada. Built in England to celebrate the 300th anniversary of the Hudson's Bay Company in 1970, the Nonsuch is considered one of the finest replicas in the world.

The replicated ketch travelled 14,000 km across open water and land before coming home to The Manitoba Museum. Her deck was originally built to support ten sailors in bare feet. Now, after 40 years of being trod on by over four million pairs of shoes, the wear and tear is starting to show.

Nonsuch conservation is an ongoing task where Museum conservators fight a daily battle to preserve the rigging and other ship components against dust, excess light, climate extremes, vandalism, gravity shifts and pests.

The Nonsuch is considered by many to be the Museum's most iconic artefact. It is critical to conserve the revered Nonsuch now, in order to preserve this treasure for future generations.

Love Thy Nonsuch

Check out this great video from the Manitoba Museum

How can you help?

Please take a moment to donate today, and help with the enormous conservation work on our beloved Nonsuch. Visit: MBMuseumFundraising.com.

Video

This 1968 documentary, created by Nonsuch Films Limited, traces the construction, launching and sailing of the replica Nonsuch built to commemorate HBC's 300 anniversary. The ship is on display at the Manitoba Museum and the original film is available at the Archives of Manitoba in Winnipeg.