The Arnprior & District Museum

The Arnprior & District Museum is situated in the former Arnprior Post Office Customs House built in 1896.  Based on a design by Thomas Fuller, who was the architect of the original Parliament Buildings in Ottawa (c. 1860), it was saved from demolition by the generosity of David and Jessie Gillies in the early 1960s.  This designated building is now recognized as the symbol of the Town of Arnprior.  

The Museum houses a great collection of artefacts and photographs spread over three floors that you can peruse at your leisure.  In partnership with Algonquin College Applied Museum Studies students the museum has a brand new exhibit called the Prince and the Prior which is dedicated to the anniversary of the visit of the Prince of Wales to Arnprior in 1860.  The Marshall’s Bay CN flag stop has also made its way into the museum. Conserved and built entirely by volunteers this building is one of the few flags stops left in the province which served small communities and cottage areas in the 19th century.  Other exhibits include  Kenwood Mills, a 1928 fire engine, scenes of early 20th century domestic life, Charles Macnamara, an ever-changing lumber exhibit, and the Museums fine collection of artefacts belonging to and pertaining to the life of Archibald McNab, the last Laird of the clan McNab.

We are open July 1st, our busiest day of the year and will also be taking part in Renfrew County’s Rural Ramble in October. Watch out for information about Arnprior’s 150th anniversary in 2012.

2011 Quilt Show

Hello, My name is Janet Carlile, and I have been the curator at The Arnprior and District Museum for over 9 years now. This museum is a wonderful opportunity for locals, visitors, and tourists located in one of Arnprior's most recognized historical buildings situated in the downtown core of the heritage district. The museum is a wonderful attraction interpreting and exhibiting local scientific and artistic interest, as well a place of education, with a library of information concerning the history of Arnprior and the surrounding area, and the important roles we played in Canada's development. Our exhibits are always changing as we have a large collection of local historical artifacts, and we continue to get more each day from generous donors. Furthermore, we have a variety of special events which take place annually, as well a number of fun and educational Children's Programs designed for the summer, and the school semesters! The Arnprior and District Museum has a lot to offer, and we encourage all to visit! Regardless of knowledge or age, there is something for everyone to enjoy!

Admission: Adult $3  |  Family $8  |  Student & Senior $1.50  |  Children under the age of  8 are free

Hours:   < off-season hours now in place >

The Stedman Building Fire - 1957	Museum Textile Dept.

Some events at the Museum are produced in Partnership with TVCOGECO and are available for viewing on cable channel 22 in Arnprior.

Supported by: