Arguably one of Chemainus’ best-kept secrets, the Chemainus Museum in Waterwheel Park is again welcoming visitors to the wonderful exhibition of the community’s history.
The Museum opened for the season on March 13 and will be open five days a week, Wednesdays to Sunday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
The Museum is a popular stop for visitors hoping to learn more about the history of this beautiful community.
Operated by the Chemainus Valley Historical Society, a non-profit organization, the Museum is ideally located in the centre of town with a nearby lookout providing visitors with a view of the mill below.
Historical Society president Ron Waller says a group of volunteers does a great job of operating the Museum, but more help is always needed.
“Like many organizations, our membership has been decreasing and so we need help if we are to meet our goals and continue to serve the community,” Waller says.
“There are many ways you can help. You can volunteer behind the scenes, help preserve personal heirlooms and photos or become a volunteer in the Museum talking to visitors and sharing your knowledge of the area,” he adds.
Financial support is always welcome, Waller says, noting memberships make a unique gift and tax receipts are available.
Local residents, many of whom have never been inside the building, are encouraged to visit the Museum and learn more about our heritage.
Background
- The Chemainus Valley Historical Society was established in 1963 by a group of dedicated volunteers with a desire to preserve the vast history that is Chemainus.
- When it became clear that home basements could not keep up with the growing number of artifacts being collected, the decision was made that a central location was needed. Thus began the massive community effort that created the Chemainus Valley Museum, which opened in 1991.
- In 2013 further community involvement enabled the Expansion Project which saw the current Museum officially open in 2019.