What is the Museum's Mission Statement?
Through our collections, exhibitions and programming, Simcoe County Museum shares the stories of Simcoe County, encouraging visitors to develop a stronger interest, appreciation and understanding of our culture and heritage.
How did the Museum begin?
The Simcoe County Museum was established in 1928 by members of the Women's Institute who recognized the need to preserve the area history.
Is the Museum indoors or outdoors?
The Simcoe County Museum is comprised of five galleries in the main complex, and ten outdoor heritage buildings that have been relocated to the Museum grounds from various locations around Simcoe County. From the 1834 Spearin log home to the 1922 Cedar View Cottage, this architectural display of heritage buildings illustrate daily life and the growth and development of the area. These outdoor buildings close for the winter on November 30th, and re-open May 1st.
What is there for children to do?
We have a variety of hands on exhibits and a sand box with toys on the grounds outside. Supervised children may also visit our heritage buildings to really experience the history of Simcoe County.
Is the Museum suitable for children under 5?
Yes, we have lots for them to look at and heritage and display buildings they can walk through. Most of our displays are low enough for children to see without help. The Museum is suitable for all ages, and we find that with our varied collection, everyone will find an area that appeals to them.
What kind of collection do you have?
Our collection consists of over 25,000 artifacts that tell a part of the history of Simcoe County, with everything from Mastodon remains to heritage buildings. Our collection is as rich and varied as our history.
Does the Museum do appraisals or restoration work?
The Museum does occasionally have appraisals completed by an Appraiser for objects from our collection. Unfortunately, Museum staff cannot conduct appraisals for the general public. We focus on preventive conservation of our artifacts, and request assistance from professional Conservators to undertake conservation or restoration treatment.
Do you purchase any of your artifacts or are they donated?
We do not generally purchase artifacts. Almost all of our collection has been donated by members of our community.
How many visitors do you have each year?
The Museum is very popular with over 30,000 visitors annually.
Do you have a Gift Shop?
Yes we do. We stock a variety of unique gifts, locally handcrafted items, educational toys and candy. We also gift wrap your purchases. We accept Cash, Debit, Visa or MasterCard.
Do you have meeting space available?
Yes we do:
- Meeting Room A & B – 120 person capacity - $300 + GST
- Meeting Room A – 32 person capacity - $125 + GST
- Meeting Room B – 60 person capacity - $225 + GST
Does the Museum offer any special programs for seniors?
Yes we do. If you are a Retiree, Society, Historical Group, Antique Club, Red Hatter or any other special interest group, you are invited to book a program and view our Museum displays. Please contact education@simcoe.ca to book your group.