Exhibits and Collections

Permanent Exhibits

The Main Floor is home to the Mercury including artifacts such as one of the first CPU models, print press machinery and classic typewriters. There is also The Handford Photography Studio and its vast collection of cameras and photo developing equipment. As well as Dr. Les Livingstone and his travels to the Arctic can be viewed in tandem with local Indigenous bead and craft work.

The Upstairs features fashion through the ages, including clothes from the Victorian era, and a wedding dress gallery. A vintage doll and toy collection along with other every-day household items can be seen on this floor, right beside our school and education display. This floor also houses a substantial decorative military display including the Cold War, and World War I and II.

The Basement calls to various heavy and large mill, farming, mining and logging equipment from the early 1900’s. Revolutionary industrial wares such as cast irons and ice boxes from Barnet Refrigeration Co. Along with vintage oven and cookware sets are stationed throughout this floor.

Temporary Exhibits

In 2022, “Old Haunts” an exhibit of paintings of historic Renfrew landmarks by local artist Joanne Beattie Kalimeris was displayed.

After three years of silence, music and performances have returned to Renfrew’s 112-year-old Scottish band. The first gig was in collaboration with the McDougall Mill Museum on Aug. 6, 2023 and featured an exhibition of the band’s early history, game souvenir booklets, tartans and more.

The temporary exhibits change each year.

Canada Day

Get your red & white on with Us! Free refreshments and festive treats.

School Programs

School groups and tours are welcome. Contact us at info@renfrewmuseum.ca to make arrangements for your outing.