The Scarborough Museum, located in the heart of Thomson Memorial Park, is a cultural gem that showcases the rich history and heritage of Scarborough, a district in eastern Toronto, Ontario, Canada. With a focus on preserving and interpreting the social, cultural, and economic history of the area, the museum offers a unique and engaging experience for visitors of all ages. The museum's collection includes over 5,000 artifacts, photographs, and documents that tell the story of Scarborough's transformation from a rural farming community to a thriving urban center.
A Brief History of Scarborough Museum
Established in 1962, the Scarborough Museum is housed in a historic farmhouse that dates back to the 1860s. The museum’s main building, known as the Cornell House, was once the residence of the Cornell family, who were among the earliest settlers in the area. Over the years, the museum has undergone several expansions and renovations, including the addition of a new wing in 2001, which features exhibit spaces, a research library, and a collection storage area. Today, the museum is operated by the City of Toronto’s Museum Services and is one of the ten community museums in the city.
Permanent Exhibits and Collections
The Scarborough Museum features a range of permanent exhibits that highlight the district’s history, from its indigenous roots to its modern-day diversity. Some of the exhibits include Early Settlement and Farming, which explores the lives of Scarborough’s early settlers and their agricultural practices; Industrialization and Urbanization, which examines the impact of industrialization on the community; and Cultural Diversity, which celebrates the contributions of immigrant communities to Scarborough’s cultural landscape. The museum’s collection also includes a significant number of artifacts, such as furniture, clothing, and household items, which provide a glimpse into the daily lives of Scarborough’s residents.
| Exhibit Title | Description |
|---|---|
| Early Settlement and Farming | Explores the lives of Scarborough's early settlers and their agricultural practices |
| Industrialization and Urbanization | Examines the impact of industrialization on the community |
| Cultural Diversity | Celebrates the contributions of immigrant communities to Scarborough's cultural landscape |
Temporary Exhibits and Events
In addition to its permanent exhibits, the Scarborough Museum also hosts a range of temporary exhibits and events throughout the year. These exhibits often feature local artists, historical reenactments, and community outreach programs, which aim to engage visitors and promote a sense of community. Some recent examples of temporary exhibits include “The History of Scarborough’s Music Scene” and “The Art of Traditional Crafts”. The museum also participates in city-wide events, such as the Toronto Heritage Day and the Scarborough Festival, which celebrate the city’s rich cultural heritage.
Community Engagement and Outreach
The Scarborough Museum is committed to community engagement and outreach, and offers a range of programs and services that promote social inclusion, cultural diversity, and historical preservation. Some examples of the museum’s community outreach initiatives include volunteer opportunities, workshops and classes, and partnerships with local organizations. The museum also provides accessibility services, such as wheelchair accessibility and audio descriptions, to ensure that all visitors can participate fully in its programs and exhibits.
- Volunteer opportunities: The museum offers a range of volunteer opportunities, from exhibit development to educational programming
- Workshops and classes: The museum provides workshops and classes on topics such as local history, cultural diversity, and environmental sustainability
- Partnerships with local organizations: The museum partners with local organizations to promote community engagement and social inclusion
What are the museum’s hours of operation?
+The Scarborough Museum is open Tuesday to Sunday from 10am to 5pm, and is closed on Mondays and statutory holidays.
How do I get to the museum?
+The museum is located at 1007 Brimley Road, Scarborough, ON M1P 3E8, and is accessible by public transit or car. Parking is available on site.
What types of exhibits and programs does the museum offer?
+The museum offers a range of permanent and temporary exhibits, as well as educational programs, workshops, and community outreach initiatives. For more information, please visit the museum’s website or contact the museum directly.
