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 items from the now closed Archibald museum, the 'Nice Women Don't Vote' exhibit from the Manitoba Museum, along with photos and documents from McClung's time in Manitou.

Al Thorleifson, a member of the Culture and Heritage Committee, explains why the exhibit was created.

"We wanted to put together some kind of exhibit that would really put a context for who is this family? Why were they in Manitou and why did Nellie McClung become the wonderful social justice warrior she became?"

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

McClung began her years in Manitou in 1889, teaching at a home for a couple years at the age of 16.

McClung would later come back to Manitou where she met her husband Wesley.

The story of Nellie McClung has often been overlooked. Thorleifson explains why learning about McClung's life and women's struggle for their rights is important.

"Too many of us forget our own stories. 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 goes till September 15 at the Manitou Opera House.

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