#richandfamous — Public Fediverse posts

Mackenzie House: Victorian Era Home of Toronto’s First Mayor

The Mackenzie House seems to be squeezed between skyscrapers in the spot it was built some 165+ years ago in 1858. Brick walls dwarfed by its neighbours, the restored townhouse was the final home of William Lyon Mackenzie.

Linda’s Pick of the Exhibits

Being a writer, it’s no surprise that my favorite exhibit was the printing press room. Why a printing press in an historic house? Because William Lyon Mackenzie was a printer and newspaper editor. So, to honor that part of his life and work, the house includes an historic printing press.

The printing press is from 1845. Along with the press itself, I found various other printing tools. They included type cabinets, trays of metal type, and printing supplies like ink rollers.

An interpreter was in the house during my visit to give demonstrations. I, along with other visitors, was able to do some printing myself!

Various items on display had been created with the press.

What’s at Mackenzie House?

Mackenzie House is a restored Victorian-era Georgian-style home just steps from Sankofa Square (formerly Yonge-Dundas Square) in downtown Toronto.

The three-storey brick townhouse is far from flashy, but it was built as the centre of three townhouses.

Its interior is furnished with period pieces, with a few originals.

One of the original pieces includes a bible owned by Mackenzie when he occupied the home.

The City of Toronto added a small building on the back of the original building in 1967.

An addition was required to turn the historic home into a museum while retaining its historic authenticity.

It has three functional spaces that include:

• The recreated 19th-century print shop
• A narrow gallery for temporary and thematic exhibits
• A reception and gift shop area for visitors to check in

If you’ve studied Canadian history, you may remember some of Mackenzie’s colorful history, although you’ll learn a lot more at the house.

Fast Fact: The house museum displays a proclamation that offers: One Thousand Pounds, to any one who will apprehend, and deliver up to Justice, WILLIAM LYON MACKENZIE. 
~ Mackenzie House Museum

Mackenzie was, by all accounts, a fiery editor whose newspaper attacks against the “Family Compact” elite resulted in a Tory mob smashing his printing press in 1826.

William Lyon Mackenzie became a leading voice in a Canadian Reform movement and was elected to the House of Assembly for York County in 1828. His political career resulted in libel suits, threats, and physical assaults. While many disliked his political stance, he was continually re-elected to the provincial Parliament.

In 1834, Mackenzie was elected as an alderman for St. David’s Ward in Toronto. His fellow council members then elected him to be Toronto’s first mayor.

But back the exile that happened after he was defeated at the polls in 1836.

Convinced he’d have the support of the people, Mackenzie led the 1837 Upper Canada Rebellion on December 5, 1837. However, the rebellion fell apart quickly and loyalist troops under Sir Francis Bond Head easily defeated the rebels at Montgomery’s Tavern.

Not ready to give up, Mackenze fled and declared a provisional government. His demands? American-style democratic reform. However, the Canadian militia sank his rebel supply ship, Caroline, and bombarded Navy Island in the Niagara River. Two fellow rebels were captured and executed for treason after pleading guilty to being part of the rebellion.

Mackenzie was exiled to New York. However, he was soon convicted of violating US neutrality laws. The result? He spent a year in prison and the next 10 years in the US.

In 1849, the government pardoned Mackenzie and he returned to Canada. Quickly picking up where he’d left off before the exile, Mackenzie served as an MLA for Haldimand until he retired in 1857.

~ The Canadian Encyclopedia

Who was Mackenzie, really? Some call him one of the most colorful and controversial people in 19th-century Canadian politics. Others called him a “national mistake.” Still others considered Mackenzie a hero for pushing for responsible government and the rights of ordinary people.

Fast Fact: Mackenzie House was actually a gift purchased with funds raised by a relief committee of Mackenzie's friends and relatives in 1858.  They raised $7000+ to gift him the house "as a token of gratitude by the people of Canada, for his unswerving loyalty and consistency during a long period of useful public life."
~ Canadian Encyclopedia

Linda’s Road Trip Tips

The Mackenzie House is just a block or two from many of Toronto’s key attractions.

Head west to Sankofa Square if you’d like to experience Canada’s busiest intersection.

I always take the Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) subway when I go downtown, so my visit was on foot.

Even without navigating traffic, I found the intersection definitely busy!

Of course, fitting in some shopping is important in Toronto.

So, the CF Toronto Eaton Centre, directly across the square is a must-do.

It’s also a great place to check out some neat food selections in the Urban Eatery Food Court.

Love live music concerts and cultural performances? You’ll find them a few minutes walk away to Massey Hall. This historic site opened in 1894 and hosted a long list of famous musicians.

And of course, there are more great museums nearby including the Royal Ontario Museum and Bata Shoe Museum.

Who Should Visit Mackenzie House?

Mackenzie House is an interesting addition to any itinerary exploring Canada’s early history and its growth to becoming a country. After Mackenzie’s 1837 Upper Canada Rebellion and Durham Report a couple of years later, the British merged Upper and Lower Canada into the Province of Canada in 1840. This was the first step toward a more unified political structure.

Fast Fact: Mackenzie's grandson, William Lyon Mackenzie King, was Canada's longest serving Prime Minister (1921-26, 1926-30, 1935-48), leading the country through WWII. 

While a radical, Mackenzie was an early advocate of self-government and the union of colonies. He helped shape the idea that Canadians could govern themselves.

The Mackenzie House provides a great example of Victorian-era architecture and design.

So, it’s an important historic home for anyone interested in that period.

And of course, we can’t forget the ghosts.

Indeed, the Mackenzie House is often called the “Most Haunted House in Canada” or the “Most Haunted House in Toronto.”

I spent about an hour at Mackenzie House as I participated in the printing press demo.

Depending on your interests, your visit could be shorter or longer.

How Do You Visit Mackenzie House?

Mackenzie House is situated conveniently next to many attractions in downtown Toronto. If you’re on Toronto’s PATH, you could go up to street level at the Toronto Eaton Centre and be just a couple of minutes walk away.

Parking: The most convenient parking options are the parking lots and garages around Dundas/Yonge. Try apps like BestParking, SpotHero, or Green P for hourly rates. 

If you're taking the TTC Subway system the best stop is Dundas Station. 

Street Location: 82 Bond Street, Toronto, Ontario.

Parts of Mackenzie House are under restoration, so you can check availability and special events and exhibits on the Toronto History Museums website. Note that the print shop in the addition is always available during open hours.

Go inside Mackenzie House with CanTravelsHub on YouTube or learn more about its ghosts with The Mackenzie House Haunting with She’s Got Spirits on YouTube.

Plan your visit to Mackenzie House with Google Maps.

Read More Ontario Museum Reviews

Check out all these museum reviews for the Canadian province of Ontario!

Explore More Historic House Museums

• Mackenzie House: Victorian Era Home of Toronto’s First Mayor
• Historic Home of 1800s Governor in Lafayette, LA: Alexandre Mouton
• Adams Museum in Deadwood: Where Legends are Larger Than Life
• Bishop’s Palace in Galveston, Texas: Victorian Era Castle
• Rip Van Winkle Gardens & Historic Mansion: Jefferson Island, Louisiana
• The Sheriff’s House Museum & Historic Site: A Hidden Gem in Devils Lake, North Dakota
• Campbell House Museum – 1820s Toronto, Ontario
• Hearst Castle: National Historic Landmark in San Simeon, California
• Oak Alley Plantation: Grand Dame of Louisiana’s River Road
• Evergreen Plantation: National Landmark Site in Edgard, Louisiana
• Casa Loma: Historic 98 Room House Museum in Toronto, Ontario

Mackenzie House: Victorian Era Home of Toronto’s First Mayor

The Mackenzie House seems to be squeezed between skyscrapers in the spot it was built some 165+ years ago in 1858. Brick walls dwarfed by its neighbours, the restored townhouse was the final home of William Lyon Mackenzie.

Linda’s Pick of the Exhibits

Being a writer, it’s no surprise that my favorite exhibit was the printing press room. Why a printing press in an historic house? Because William Lyon Mackenzie was a printer and newspaper editor. So, to honor that part of his life and work, the house includes an historic printing press.

The printing press is from 1845. Along with the press itself, I found various other printing tools. They included type cabinets, trays of metal type, and printing supplies like ink rollers.

An interpreter was in the house during my visit to give demonstrations. I, along with other visitors, was able to do some printing myself!

Various items on display had been created with the press.

What’s at Mackenzie House?

Mackenzie House is a restored Victorian-era Georgian-style home just steps from Sankofa Square (formerly Yonge-Dundas Square) in downtown Toronto.

The three-storey brick townhouse is far from flashy, but it was built as the centre of three townhouses.

Its interior is furnished with period pieces, with a few originals.

One of the original pieces includes a bible owned by Mackenzie when he occupied the home.

The City of Toronto added a small building on the back of the original building in 1967.

An addition was required to turn the historic home into a museum while retaining its historic authenticity.

It has three functional spaces that include:

• The recreated 19th-century print shop
• A narrow gallery for temporary and thematic exhibits
• A reception and gift shop area for visitors to check in

If you’ve studied Canadian history, you may remember some of Mackenzie’s colorful history, although you’ll learn a lot more at the house.

Fast Fact: The house museum displays a proclamation that offers: One Thousand Pounds, to any one who will apprehend, and deliver up to Justice, WILLIAM LYON MACKENZIE. 
~ Mackenzie House Museum

Mackenzie was, by all accounts, a fiery editor whose newspaper attacks against the “Family Compact” elite resulted in a Tory mob smashing his printing press in 1826.

William Lyon Mackenzie became a leading voice in a Canadian Reform movement and was elected to the House of Assembly for York County in 1828. His political career resulted in libel suits, threats, and physical assaults. While many disliked his political stance, he was continually re-elected to the provincial Parliament.

In 1834, Mackenzie was elected as an alderman for St. David’s Ward in Toronto. His fellow council members then elected him to be Toronto’s first mayor.

But back the exile that happened after he was defeated at the polls in 1836.

Convinced he’d have the support of the people, Mackenzie led the 1837 Upper Canada Rebellion on December 5, 1837. However, the rebellion fell apart quickly and loyalist troops under Sir Francis Bond Head easily defeated the rebels at Montgomery’s Tavern.

Not ready to give up, Mackenze fled and declared a provisional government. His demands? American-style democratic reform. However, the Canadian militia sank his rebel supply ship, Caroline, and bombarded Navy Island in the Niagara River. Two fellow rebels were captured and executed for treason after pleading guilty to being part of the rebellion.

Mackenzie was exiled to New York. However, he was soon convicted of violating US neutrality laws. The result? He spent a year in prison and the next 10 years in the US.

In 1849, the government pardoned Mackenzie and he returned to Canada. Quickly picking up where he’d left off before the exile, Mackenzie served as an MLA for Haldimand until he retired in 1857.

~ The Canadian Encyclopedia

Who was Mackenzie, really? Some call him one of the most colorful and controversial people in 19th-century Canadian politics. Others called him a “national mistake.” Still others considered Mackenzie a hero for pushing for responsible government and the rights of ordinary people.

Fast Fact: Mackenzie House was actually a gift purchased with funds raised by a relief committee of Mackenzie's friends and relatives in 1858.  They raised $7000+ to gift him the house "as a token of gratitude by the people of Canada, for his unswerving loyalty and consistency during a long period of useful public life."
~ Canadian Encyclopedia

Linda’s Road Trip Tips

The Mackenzie House is just a block or two from many of Toronto’s key attractions.

Head west to Sankofa Square if you’d like to experience Canada’s busiest intersection.

I always take the Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) subway when I go downtown, so my visit was on foot.

Even without navigating traffic, I found the intersection definitely busy!

Of course, fitting in some shopping is important in Toronto.

So, the CF Toronto Eaton Centre, directly across the square is a must-do.

It’s also a great place to check out some neat food selections in the Urban Eatery Food Court.

Love live music concerts and cultural performances? You’ll find them a few minutes walk away to Massey Hall. This historic site opened in 1894 and hosted a long list of famous musicians.

And of course, there are more great museums nearby including the Royal Ontario Museum and Bata Shoe Museum.

Who Should Visit Mackenzie House?

Mackenzie House is an interesting addition to any itinerary exploring Canada’s early history and its growth to becoming a country. After Mackenzie’s 1837 Upper Canada Rebellion and Durham Report a couple of years later, the British merged Upper and Lower Canada into the Province of Canada in 1840. This was the first step toward a more unified political structure.

Fast Fact: Mackenzie's grandson, William Lyon Mackenzie King, was Canada's longest serving Prime Minister (1921-26, 1926-30, 1935-48), leading the country through WWII. 

While a radical, Mackenzie was an early advocate of self-government and the union of colonies. He helped shape the idea that Canadians could govern themselves.

The Mackenzie House provides a great example of Victorian-era architecture and design.

So, it’s an important historic home for anyone interested in that period.

And of course, we can’t forget the ghosts.

Indeed, the Mackenzie House is often called the “Most Haunted House in Canada” or the “Most Haunted House in Toronto.”

I spent about an hour at Mackenzie House as I participated in the printing press demo.

Depending on your interests, your visit could be shorter or longer.

How Do You Visit Mackenzie House?

Mackenzie House is situated conveniently next to many attractions in downtown Toronto. If you’re on Toronto’s PATH, you could go up to street level at the Toronto Eaton Centre and be just a couple of minutes walk away.

Parking: The most convenient parking options are the parking lots and garages around Dundas/Yonge. Try apps like BestParking, SpotHero, or Green P for hourly rates. 

If you're taking the TTC Subway system the best stop is Dundas Station. 

Street Location: 82 Bond Street, Toronto, Ontario.

Parts of Mackenzie House are under restoration, so you can check availability and special events and exhibits on the Toronto History Museums website. Note that the print shop in the addition is always available during open hours.

Go inside Mackenzie House with CanTravelsHub on YouTube or learn more about its ghosts with The Mackenzie House Haunting with She’s Got Spirits on YouTube.

Plan your visit to Mackenzie House with Google Maps.

Read More Ontario Museum Reviews

Check out all these museum reviews for the Canadian province of Ontario!

Explore More Historic House Museums

• Mackenzie House: Victorian Era Home of Toronto’s First Mayor
• Historic Home of 1800s Governor in Lafayette, LA: Alexandre Mouton
• Adams Museum in Deadwood: Where Legends are Larger Than Life
• Bishop’s Palace in Galveston, Texas: Victorian Era Castle
• Rip Van Winkle Gardens & Historic Mansion: Jefferson Island, Louisiana
• The Sheriff’s House Museum & Historic Site: A Hidden Gem in Devils Lake, North Dakota
• Campbell House Museum – 1820s Toronto, Ontario
• Hearst Castle: National Historic Landmark in San Simeon, California
• Oak Alley Plantation: Grand Dame of Louisiana’s River Road
• Evergreen Plantation: National Landmark Site in Edgard, Louisiana
• Casa Loma: Historic 98 Room House Museum in Toronto, Ontario

Mackenzie House: Victorian Era Home of Toronto’s First Mayor

The Mackenzie House seems to be squeezed between skyscrapers in the spot it was built some 165+ years ago in 1858. Brick walls dwarfed by its neighbours, the restored townhouse was the final home of William Lyon Mackenzie.

Linda’s Pick of the Exhibits

Being a writer, it’s no surprise that my favorite exhibit was the printing press room. Why a printing press in an historic house? Because William Lyon Mackenzie was a printer and newspaper editor. So, to honor that part of his life and work, the house includes an historic printing press.

The printing press is from 1845. Along with the press itself, I found various other printing tools. They included type cabinets, trays of metal type, and printing supplies like ink rollers.

An interpreter was in the house during my visit to give demonstrations. I, along with other visitors, was able to do some printing myself!

Various items on display had been created with the press.

What’s at Mackenzie House?

Mackenzie House is a restored Victorian-era Georgian-style home just steps from Sankofa Square (formerly Yonge-Dundas Square) in downtown Toronto.

The three-storey brick townhouse is far from flashy, but it was built as the centre of three townhouses.

Its interior is furnished with period pieces, with a few originals.

One of the original pieces includes a bible owned by Mackenzie when he occupied the home.

The City of Toronto added a small building on the back of the original building in 1967.

An addition was required to turn the historic home into a museum while retaining its historic authenticity.

It has three functional spaces that include:

• The recreated 19th-century print shop
• A narrow gallery for temporary and thematic exhibits
• A reception and gift shop area for visitors to check in

If you’ve studied Canadian history, you may remember some of Mackenzie’s colorful history, although you’ll learn a lot more at the house.

Fast Fact: The house museum displays a proclamation that offers: One Thousand Pounds, to any one who will apprehend, and deliver up to Justice, WILLIAM LYON MACKENZIE. 
~ Mackenzie House Museum

Mackenzie was, by all accounts, a fiery editor whose newspaper attacks against the “Family Compact” elite resulted in a Tory mob smashing his printing press in 1826.

William Lyon Mackenzie became a leading voice in a Canadian Reform movement and was elected to the House of Assembly for York County in 1828. His political career resulted in libel suits, threats, and physical assaults. While many disliked his political stance, he was continually re-elected to the provincial Parliament.

In 1834, Mackenzie was elected as an alderman for St. David’s Ward in Toronto. His fellow council members then elected him to be Toronto’s first mayor.

But back the exile that happened after he was defeated at the polls in 1836.

Convinced he’d have the support of the people, Mackenzie led the 1837 Upper Canada Rebellion on December 5, 1837. However, the rebellion fell apart quickly and loyalist troops under Sir Francis Bond Head easily defeated the rebels at Montgomery’s Tavern.

Not ready to give up, Mackenze fled and declared a provisional government. His demands? American-style democratic reform. However, the Canadian militia sank his rebel supply ship, Caroline, and bombarded Navy Island in the Niagara River. Two fellow rebels were captured and executed for treason after pleading guilty to being part of the rebellion.

Mackenzie was exiled to New York. However, he was soon convicted of violating US neutrality laws. The result? He spent a year in prison and the next 10 years in the US.

In 1849, the government pardoned Mackenzie and he returned to Canada. Quickly picking up where he’d left off before the exile, Mackenzie served as an MLA for Haldimand until he retired in 1857.

~ The Canadian Encyclopedia

Who was Mackenzie, really? Some call him one of the most colorful and controversial people in 19th-century Canadian politics. Others called him a “national mistake.” Still others considered Mackenzie a hero for pushing for responsible government and the rights of ordinary people.

Fast Fact: Mackenzie House was actually a gift purchased with funds raised by a relief committee of Mackenzie's friends and relatives in 1858.  They raised $7000+ to gift him the house "as a token of gratitude by the people of Canada, for his unswerving loyalty and consistency during a long period of useful public life."
~ Canadian Encyclopedia

Linda’s Road Trip Tips

The Mackenzie House is just a block or two from many of Toronto’s key attractions.

Head west to Sankofa Square if you’d like to experience Canada’s busiest intersection.

I always take the Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) subway when I go downtown, so my visit was on foot.

Even without navigating traffic, I found the intersection definitely busy!

Of course, fitting in some shopping is important in Toronto.

So, the CF Toronto Eaton Centre, directly across the square is a must-do.

It’s also a great place to check out some neat food selections in the Urban Eatery Food Court.

Love live music concerts and cultural performances? You’ll find them a few minutes walk away to Massey Hall. This historic site opened in 1894 and hosted a long list of famous musicians.

And of course, there are more great museums nearby including the Royal Ontario Museum and Bata Shoe Museum.

Who Should Visit Mackenzie House?

Mackenzie House is an interesting addition to any itinerary exploring Canada’s early history and its growth to becoming a country. After Mackenzie’s 1837 Upper Canada Rebellion and Durham Report a couple of years later, the British merged Upper and Lower Canada into the Province of Canada in 1840. This was the first step toward a more unified political structure.

Fast Fact: Mackenzie's grandson, William Lyon Mackenzie King, was Canada's longest serving Prime Minister (1921-26, 1926-30, 1935-48), leading the country through WWII. 

While a radical, Mackenzie was an early advocate of self-government and the union of colonies. He helped shape the idea that Canadians could govern themselves.

The Mackenzie House provides a great example of Victorian-era architecture and design.

So, it’s an important historic home for anyone interested in that period.

And of course, we can’t forget the ghosts.

Indeed, the Mackenzie House is often called the “Most Haunted House in Canada” or the “Most Haunted House in Toronto.”

I spent about an hour at Mackenzie House as I participated in the printing press demo.

Depending on your interests, your visit could be shorter or longer.

How Do You Visit Mackenzie House?

Mackenzie House is situated conveniently next to many attractions in downtown Toronto. If you’re on Toronto’s PATH, you could go up to street level at the Toronto Eaton Centre and be just a couple of minutes walk away.

Parking: The most convenient parking options are the parking lots and garages around Dundas/Yonge. Try apps like BestParking, SpotHero, or Green P for hourly rates. 

If you're taking the TTC Subway system the best stop is Dundas Station. 

Street Location: 82 Bond Street, Toronto, Ontario.

Parts of Mackenzie House are under restoration, so you can check availability and special events and exhibits on the Toronto History Museums website. Note that the print shop in the addition is always available during open hours.

Go inside Mackenzie House with CanTravelsHub on YouTube or learn more about its ghosts with The Mackenzie House Haunting with She’s Got Spirits on YouTube.

Plan your visit to Mackenzie House with Google Maps.

Read More Ontario Museum Reviews

Check out all these museum reviews for the Canadian province of Ontario!

Explore More Historic House Museums

• Mackenzie House: Victorian Era Home of Toronto’s First Mayor
• Historic Home of 1800s Governor in Lafayette, LA: Alexandre Mouton
• Adams Museum in Deadwood: Where Legends are Larger Than Life
• Bishop’s Palace in Galveston, Texas: Victorian Era Castle
• Rip Van Winkle Gardens & Historic Mansion: Jefferson Island, Louisiana
• The Sheriff’s House Museum & Historic Site: A Hidden Gem in Devils Lake, North Dakota
• Campbell House Museum – 1820s Toronto, Ontario
• Hearst Castle: National Historic Landmark in San Simeon, California
• Oak Alley Plantation: Grand Dame of Louisiana’s River Road
• Evergreen Plantation: National Landmark Site in Edgard, Louisiana
• Casa Loma: Historic 98 Room House Museum in Toronto, Ontario

Mackenzie House: Victorian Era Home of Toronto’s First Mayor

The Mackenzie House seems to be squeezed between skyscrapers in the spot it was built some 165+ years ago in 1858. Brick walls dwarfed by its neighbours, the restored townhouse was the final home of William Lyon Mackenzie.

Linda’s Pick of the Exhibits

Being a writer, it’s no surprise that my favorite exhibit was the printing press room. Why a printing press in an historic house? Because William Lyon Mackenzie was a printer and newspaper editor. So, to honor that part of his life and work, the house includes an historic printing press.

The printing press is from 1845. Along with the press itself, I found various other printing tools. They included type cabinets, trays of metal type, and printing supplies like ink rollers.

An interpreter was in the house during my visit to give demonstrations. I, along with other visitors, was able to do some printing myself!

Various items on display had been created with the press.

What’s at Mackenzie House?

Mackenzie House is a restored Victorian-era Georgian-style home just steps from Sankofa Square (formerly Yonge-Dundas Square) in downtown Toronto.

The three-storey brick townhouse is far from flashy, but it was built as the centre of three townhouses.

Its interior is furnished with period pieces, with a few originals.

One of the original pieces includes a bible owned by Mackenzie when he occupied the home.

The City of Toronto added a small building on the back of the original building in 1967.

An addition was required to turn the historic home into a museum while retaining its historic authenticity.

It has three functional spaces that include:

• The recreated 19th-century print shop
• A narrow gallery for temporary and thematic exhibits
• A reception and gift shop area for visitors to check in

If you’ve studied Canadian history, you may remember some of Mackenzie’s colorful history, although you’ll learn a lot more at the house.

Fast Fact: The house museum displays a proclamation that offers: One Thousand Pounds, to any one who will apprehend, and deliver up to Justice, WILLIAM LYON MACKENZIE. 
~ Mackenzie House Museum

Mackenzie was, by all accounts, a fiery editor whose newspaper attacks against the “Family Compact” elite resulted in a Tory mob smashing his printing press in 1826.

William Lyon Mackenzie became a leading voice in a Canadian Reform movement and was elected to the House of Assembly for York County in 1828. His political career resulted in libel suits, threats, and physical assaults. While many disliked his political stance, he was continually re-elected to the provincial Parliament.

In 1834, Mackenzie was elected as an alderman for St. David’s Ward in Toronto. His fellow council members then elected him to be Toronto’s first mayor.

But back the exile that happened after he was defeated at the polls in 1836.

Convinced he’d have the support of the people, Mackenzie led the 1837 Upper Canada Rebellion on December 5, 1837. However, the rebellion fell apart quickly and loyalist troops under Sir Francis Bond Head easily defeated the rebels at Montgomery’s Tavern.

Not ready to give up, Mackenze fled and declared a provisional government. His demands? American-style democratic reform. However, the Canadian militia sank his rebel supply ship, Caroline, and bombarded Navy Island in the Niagara River. Two fellow rebels were captured and executed for treason after pleading guilty to being part of the rebellion.

Mackenzie was exiled to New York. However, he was soon convicted of violating US neutrality laws. The result? He spent a year in prison and the next 10 years in the US.

In 1849, the government pardoned Mackenzie and he returned to Canada. Quickly picking up where he’d left off before the exile, Mackenzie served as an MLA for Haldimand until he retired in 1857.

~ The Canadian Encyclopedia

Who was Mackenzie, really? Some call him one of the most colorful and controversial people in 19th-century Canadian politics. Others called him a “national mistake.” Still others considered Mackenzie a hero for pushing for responsible government and the rights of ordinary people.

Fast Fact: Mackenzie House was actually a gift purchased with funds raised by a relief committee of Mackenzie's friends and relatives in 1858.  They raised $7000+ to gift him the house "as a token of gratitude by the people of Canada, for his unswerving loyalty and consistency during a long period of useful public life."
~ Canadian Encyclopedia

Linda’s Road Trip Tips

The Mackenzie House is just a block or two from many of Toronto’s key attractions.

Head west to Sankofa Square if you’d like to experience Canada’s busiest intersection.

I always take the Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) subway when I go downtown, so my visit was on foot.

Even without navigating traffic, I found the intersection definitely busy!

Of course, fitting in some shopping is important in Toronto.

So, the CF Toronto Eaton Centre, directly across the square is a must-do.

It’s also a great place to check out some neat food selections in the Urban Eatery Food Court.

Love live music concerts and cultural performances? You’ll find them a few minutes walk away to Massey Hall. This historic site opened in 1894 and hosted a long list of famous musicians.

And of course, there are more great museums nearby including the Royal Ontario Museum and Bata Shoe Museum.

Who Should Visit Mackenzie House?

Mackenzie House is an interesting addition to any itinerary exploring Canada’s early history and its growth to becoming a country. After Mackenzie’s 1837 Upper Canada Rebellion and Durham Report a couple of years later, the British merged Upper and Lower Canada into the Province of Canada in 1840. This was the first step toward a more unified political structure.

Fast Fact: Mackenzie's grandson, William Lyon Mackenzie King, was Canada's longest serving Prime Minister (1921-26, 1926-30, 1935-48), leading the country through WWII. 

While a radical, Mackenzie was an early advocate of self-government and the union of colonies. He helped shape the idea that Canadians could govern themselves.

The Mackenzie House provides a great example of Victorian-era architecture and design.

So, it’s an important historic home for anyone interested in that period.

And of course, we can’t forget the ghosts.

Indeed, the Mackenzie House is often called the “Most Haunted House in Canada” or the “Most Haunted House in Toronto.”

I spent about an hour at Mackenzie House as I participated in the printing press demo.

Depending on your interests, your visit could be shorter or longer.

How Do You Visit Mackenzie House?

Mackenzie House is situated conveniently next to many attractions in downtown Toronto. If you’re on Toronto’s PATH, you could go up to street level at the Toronto Eaton Centre and be just a couple of minutes walk away.

Parking: The most convenient parking options are the parking lots and garages around Dundas/Yonge. Try apps like BestParking, SpotHero, or Green P for hourly rates. 

If you're taking the TTC Subway system the best stop is Dundas Station. 

Street Location: 82 Bond Street, Toronto, Ontario.

Parts of Mackenzie House are under restoration, so you can check availability and special events and exhibits on the Toronto History Museums website. Note that the print shop in the addition is always available during open hours.

Go inside Mackenzie House with CanTravelsHub on YouTube or learn more about its ghosts with The Mackenzie House Haunting with She’s Got Spirits on YouTube.

Plan your visit to Mackenzie House with Google Maps.

Read More Ontario Museum Reviews

Check out all these museum reviews for the Canadian province of Ontario!

Explore More Historic House Museums

• Mackenzie House: Victorian Era Home of Toronto’s First Mayor
• Historic Home of 1800s Governor in Lafayette, LA: Alexandre Mouton
• Adams Museum in Deadwood: Where Legends are Larger Than Life
• Bishop’s Palace in Galveston, Texas: Victorian Era Castle
• Rip Van Winkle Gardens & Historic Mansion: Jefferson Island, Louisiana
• The Sheriff’s House Museum & Historic Site: A Hidden Gem in Devils Lake, North Dakota
• Campbell House Museum – 1820s Toronto, Ontario
• Hearst Castle: National Historic Landmark in San Simeon, California
• Oak Alley Plantation: Grand Dame of Louisiana’s River Road
• Evergreen Plantation: National Landmark Site in Edgard, Louisiana
• Casa Loma: Historic 98 Room House Museum in Toronto, Ontario

Mackenzie House: Victorian Era Home of Toronto’s First Mayor

The Mackenzie House seems to be squeezed between skyscrapers in the spot it was built some 165+ years ago in 1858. Brick walls dwarfed by its neighbours, the restored townhouse was the final home of William Lyon Mackenzie.

Linda’s Pick of the Exhibits

Being a writer, it’s no surprise that my favorite exhibit was the printing press room. Why a printing press in an historic house? Because William Lyon Mackenzie was a printer and newspaper editor. So, to honor that part of his life and work, the house includes an historic printing press.

The printing press is from 1845. Along with the press itself, I found various other printing tools. They included type cabinets, trays of metal type, and printing supplies like ink rollers.

An interpreter was in the house during my visit to give demonstrations. I, along with other visitors, was able to do some printing myself!

Various items on display had been created with the press.

What’s at Mackenzie House?

Mackenzie House is a restored Victorian-era Georgian-style home just steps from Sankofa Square (formerly Yonge-Dundas Square) in downtown Toronto.

The three-storey brick townhouse is far from flashy, but it was built as the centre of three townhouses.

Its interior is furnished with period pieces, with a few originals.

One of the original pieces includes a bible owned by Mackenzie when he occupied the home.

The City of Toronto added a small building on the back of the original building in 1967.

An addition was required to turn the historic home into a museum while retaining its historic authenticity.

It has three functional spaces that include:

• The recreated 19th-century print shop
• A narrow gallery for temporary and thematic exhibits
• A reception and gift shop area for visitors to check in

If you’ve studied Canadian history, you may remember some of Mackenzie’s colorful history, although you’ll learn a lot more at the house.

Fast Fact: The house museum displays a proclamation that offers: One Thousand Pounds, to any one who will apprehend, and deliver up to Justice, WILLIAM LYON MACKENZIE. 
~ Mackenzie House Museum

Mackenzie was, by all accounts, a fiery editor whose newspaper attacks against the “Family Compact” elite resulted in a Tory mob smashing his printing press in 1826.

William Lyon Mackenzie became a leading voice in a Canadian Reform movement and was elected to the House of Assembly for York County in 1828. His political career resulted in libel suits, threats, and physical assaults. While many disliked his political stance, he was continually re-elected to the provincial Parliament.

In 1834, Mackenzie was elected as an alderman for St. David’s Ward in Toronto. His fellow council members then elected him to be Toronto’s first mayor.

But back the exile that happened after he was defeated at the polls in 1836.

Convinced he’d have the support of the people, Mackenzie led the 1837 Upper Canada Rebellion on December 5, 1837. However, the rebellion fell apart quickly and loyalist troops under Sir Francis Bond Head easily defeated the rebels at Montgomery’s Tavern.

Not ready to give up, Mackenze fled and declared a provisional government. His demands? American-style democratic reform. However, the Canadian militia sank his rebel supply ship, Caroline, and bombarded Navy Island in the Niagara River. Two fellow rebels were captured and executed for treason after pleading guilty to being part of the rebellion.

Mackenzie was exiled to New York. However, he was soon convicted of violating US neutrality laws. The result? He spent a year in prison and the next 10 years in the US.

In 1849, the government pardoned Mackenzie and he returned to Canada. Quickly picking up where he’d left off before the exile, Mackenzie served as an MLA for Haldimand until he retired in 1857.

~ The Canadian Encyclopedia

Who was Mackenzie, really? Some call him one of the most colorful and controversial people in 19th-century Canadian politics. Others called him a “national mistake.” Still others considered Mackenzie a hero for pushing for responsible government and the rights of ordinary people.

Fast Fact: Mackenzie House was actually a gift purchased with funds raised by a relief committee of Mackenzie's friends and relatives in 1858.  They raised $7000+ to gift him the house "as a token of gratitude by the people of Canada, for his unswerving loyalty and consistency during a long period of useful public life."
~ Canadian Encyclopedia

Linda’s Road Trip Tips

The Mackenzie House is just a block or two from many of Toronto’s key attractions.

Head west to Sankofa Square if you’d like to experience Canada’s busiest intersection.

I always take the Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) subway when I go downtown, so my visit was on foot.

Even without navigating traffic, I found the intersection definitely busy!

Of course, fitting in some shopping is important in Toronto.

So, the CF Toronto Eaton Centre, directly across the square is a must-do.

It’s also a great place to check out some neat food selections in the Urban Eatery Food Court.

Love live music concerts and cultural performances? You’ll find them a few minutes walk away to Massey Hall. This historic site opened in 1894 and hosted a long list of famous musicians.

And of course, there are more great museums nearby including the Royal Ontario Museum and Bata Shoe Museum.

Who Should Visit Mackenzie House?

Mackenzie House is an interesting addition to any itinerary exploring Canada’s early history and its growth to becoming a country. After Mackenzie’s 1837 Upper Canada Rebellion and Durham Report a couple of years later, the British merged Upper and Lower Canada into the Province of Canada in 1840. This was the first step toward a more unified political structure.

Fast Fact: Mackenzie's grandson, William Lyon Mackenzie King, was Canada's longest serving Prime Minister (1921-26, 1926-30, 1935-48), leading the country through WWII. 

While a radical, Mackenzie was an early advocate of self-government and the union of colonies. He helped shape the idea that Canadians could govern themselves.

The Mackenzie House provides a great example of Victorian-era architecture and design.

So, it’s an important historic home for anyone interested in that period.

And of course, we can’t forget the ghosts.

Indeed, the Mackenzie House is often called the “Most Haunted House in Canada” or the “Most Haunted House in Toronto.”

I spent about an hour at Mackenzie House as I participated in the printing press demo.

Depending on your interests, your visit could be shorter or longer.

How Do You Visit Mackenzie House?

Mackenzie House is situated conveniently next to many attractions in downtown Toronto. If you’re on Toronto’s PATH, you could go up to street level at the Toronto Eaton Centre and be just a couple of minutes walk away.

Parking: The most convenient parking options are the parking lots and garages around Dundas/Yonge. Try apps like BestParking, SpotHero, or Green P for hourly rates. 

If you're taking the TTC Subway system the best stop is Dundas Station. 

Street Location: 82 Bond Street, Toronto, Ontario.

Parts of Mackenzie House are under restoration, so you can check availability and special events and exhibits on the Toronto History Museums website. Note that the print shop in the addition is always available during open hours.

Go inside Mackenzie House with CanTravelsHub on YouTube or learn more about its ghosts with The Mackenzie House Haunting with She’s Got Spirits on YouTube.

Plan your visit to Mackenzie House with Google Maps.

Read More Ontario Museum Reviews

Check out all these museum reviews for the Canadian province of Ontario!

Explore More Historic House Museums

• Mackenzie House: Victorian Era Home of Toronto’s First Mayor
• Historic Home of 1800s Governor in Lafayette, LA: Alexandre Mouton
• Adams Museum in Deadwood: Where Legends are Larger Than Life
• Bishop’s Palace in Galveston, Texas: Victorian Era Castle
• Rip Van Winkle Gardens & Historic Mansion: Jefferson Island, Louisiana
• The Sheriff’s House Museum & Historic Site: A Hidden Gem in Devils Lake, North Dakota
• Campbell House Museum – 1820s Toronto, Ontario
• Hearst Castle: National Historic Landmark in San Simeon, California
• Oak Alley Plantation: Grand Dame of Louisiana’s River Road
• Evergreen Plantation: National Landmark Site in Edgard, Louisiana
• Casa Loma: Historic 98 Room House Museum in Toronto, Ontario

Grand Coteau Heritage & Cultural Centre: Shaunavon, SK

Saskatchewan towns the size of Shaunavon don’t usually have a museum. But Shaunavon does, and it’s not only open year-round, but is free for visitors!

Housed with the local art gallery, library, and visitor centre, there’s always something happening in this southwest Saskatchewan economic hub.

Linda’s Pick of the Exhibits

Small town museums often celebrate the names of people who’ve put them on a national–or international–map. In Shaunavon, that person is Hayley Wickenheiser.

Who’s Hayley Wickenheiser? She’s most noted for being a five-time Olympian athlete, winning four gold medals and one silver in ice hockey for Canada. She was also the first woman to play full-time professional men’s ice hockey. Indeed, some say she’s the “greatest woman’s ice hockey player of all time.”

“I have never been so proud to be Canadian! To stand there with my son Noah in my arms, the gold medal around my shoulders and the Canadian anthem playing was amazing. It was the fulfillment of all my childhood dreams growing up in a farming town called Shaunavon, Saskatchewan.”

~ Quote from Wickenheiser on Canada Gold

Wickenheiser was born in 1978 in Shaunavon. When did she start skating? At two! By the time she was five, she was playing on the boys’ hockey team. At 12, she moved to Calgary, playing in both girls’ leagues and boys’ leagues.

The team nicknamed Hayley “High Chair Hayley!”

In 1998, when Hayley was 20, the Candian Women’s hockey team captured Silver in the Japan Olympics. Hayley stayed on the team for 23 years.

Hayley retired from hockey in 2017 and became a resident medical doctor. Her specialty? Emergency medicine. She also held a senior role with the NHL’s Toroto Maple Leaf hockey team.

She was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2019. In July 2022, Wickenheiser was named assistant general manager for the Toronto Maple Leafs.

What’s in the Shaunavon Museum?

The Grand Coteau Heritage & Cultural Centre is a small, but professionally curated museum in Shaunavon. It’s thematically divided into moments from the area’s past, covering its people and history with artifacts and signage.

While the collection doesn’t go back as far as dinosaurs, the Natural History exhibit does have fossils from the area. Taxidermy mounts positioned in front of painted scenes portray the area’s wildlife today.

Fast Fact: The bison speciman displayed in the museum is from a herd in Wainwright, Alberta, in 1932. He's named "Frank" after Frank Bransted, Chairman of the Museum Board from 1936 - 1957.

The Local History Exhibit is another key area in the museum. It provides information on early town businesses, from the Crystal Bakery to the Grand Coteau General Store to Hillcrest Farms.

Fast Fact: In 1940 the Cyrstal Bakery supplied an average of 500 loaves per day in the winter and 700 per day in the summer! 

In between, the museum covers early household appliances, communications, millinery styles, the RCMP, war veterans, and more. Some exhibits rotate, which keeps the museum new for visitors.

The art gallery in the Grand Coteau Heritage & Cultural Centre in Shaunavon covers about 1,000-square-feet (93 sq. m).

It features exhibitions by local, Saskatchewan, and Canadian artists. 

Linda’s Road Trip Tips

I visited Shaunavon for a critique session with my writers’ group, so spent four days in the community.

While I really enjoy the Canalta Hotel chain on the prairies, the Canalta Hotel Shaunavon was booked during our visit. So, we stayed at the Bear’s Den Lodge. It was a budget-priced option, but comfortable.

And the dining? There are lots to choose from. I particularly enjoyed the Harvest Eatery, which serves what it describes as gourmet comfort food.

I highly recommend the Lake Diefenbaker Steelhead trout fillet–their spicy pickled peach relish is a tasty addition.

The T.rex Discovery Centre in Eastend, just 20 minutes away, is one of the southwest’s most popular summer attractions. It’s home to “Scotty,” the world’s largest Tyrannosaurus rex.

You can also see the Buzzard Coulee Meteorite that crashed near Buzzard Coulee in west-central Saskatchewan in 2008.

Who Should Visit the Grand Coteau Heritage & Cultural Centre?

The Grand Coteau Heritage & Cultural Centre (GCHCC) is about 45 km (28 miles) off of the Trans-Canada Highway in southwest Saskatchewan.

So, for those on a road trip who like to explore smaller communities, the town and museum are the perfect stop.

Anyone looking for prairie history will find some interesting artifacts and information at the museum.

I spent about an hour going through the collection, so a visit can provide a short break and stretch if you’re traveling.

GCHCC has various archival materials that researchers will find valuable. From its large collection of history books to the entire span of the Shaunavon Standard newspaper dating back to 1913, there’s lots of local history.

For genealogy researchers, there’s also a collection of obituaries.

How Do You Visit the Shaunavon Museum?

The Shaunavon Museum is part of the town’s multi-purpose complex that also houses the library, art gallery, and visitor centre.

Parking: There's lots of free street parking at the museum. 

Street Location: 401 – 3rd St West, Shaunavon, Saskatchewan.

The museum is open seasonally. You can check out the Grand Coteau Centre website for information on open days and hours.

Keep up to date with what’s happening at the Grand Coteau Heritage and Cultural Centre Facebook page.

Take a quick virtual tour of the Grand Coteau Heritage and Cultural Centre on YouTube.

Plan your trip with Google Maps.

More Places to See in Saskatchewan

Check out all of guide2museum.com’s reviews of museums in Saskatchewan.

Read More Reviews of Heritage Museums

• Grand Coteau Heritage & Cultural Centre: Shaunavon, SK
• Boot Hill Museum: Kansas Wild West Myth Meets Lived History
• Maple Creek’s Intriguing Jasper Cultural & Historical Centre
• Front Street Cowboy Museum: Ogallala, Nebraska
• Discover the Mormon Handcart Historic Site & Devil’s Gate in Wyoming
• See 100 Miles Across Nebraska From Scotts Bluff National Monument
• Standout Ranching History at the MonDak Heritage Center: Sidney, Montana
• New Iceland Heritage Museum: Gimli, Manitoba, Canada
• Crazy Horse Memorial & Museums: South Dakota’s Black Hills
• Myra Museum: Lustron House & More in Grand Forks, North Dakota
• Fort Cody Trading Post: Miniature Wild West Show in North Platte, Nebraska
• Miracle of America Museum: 40+ Buildings in Polson, Montana
• Sukanen Ship Pioneer Village & Museum: Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan
• Museum of Northern British Columbia: Indigenous Art & History in Prince Rupert, British Columbia
• Heritage Village: Museum in Weyburn, Saskatchewan
• Vermilionville: Living History Open Air Village in Lafayette, Louisiana
• Museum of the Southern Jewish Experience: New Orleans, Louisiana
• National Doukhobor Heritage Village: Veregin, Saskatchewan
• Bonanzaville: Open Air Pioneer Village Museum in Fargo, North Dakota
• Range Riders Museum: Old West Lives Again in Miles City, Montana

As much as my heart breaks for the victims of the #CaliforniaWildFires , having seen that some of the #RichAndFamous were unable to get fire insurance, how long will it be before the #USTaxpayers are asked to pony up for the bill? It's always been #socialism for the rich and rugged individualism for the #poor.

Art Gallery of Ontario: Art Museum in Toronto, Ontario

The Art Gallery of Ontario in Toronto, Canada, provides an open, inviting space for visitors. That’s no surprise as it’s one of the largest art museums in North America. The museum has 480,000 sq ft of physical space to display art!

Linda’s Pick of the Exhibits

Art is in the eye of the beholder, however everyone has favorite styles and pieces. My favorite pieces in the Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO) were part of the Thomson Collection.

But let’s start with the Thomson Collection as a whole.

The collection was gifted to the Art Gallery of Ontario by Kenneth Thomson, 2nd Baron Thomson of Fleet. It consisted of about 2000 works valued at CA$300 million. Thomson also gave CA$50 million to the gallery for expansion and renovations, as well as CA$20 million for operations.

While there are many important pieces in the Thomson Collection, my favorite was the British ship models. The 3-D model collection is considered to be one of the finest of its kind.

Fast Fact: The Bristol ship model was made in 1774 by George Stockwell (1729 - 1805). Stockwell worked at Sheerness Dockyard as a professional shipbuilder and also produced scale models. As well as the scale model, the museum has a VR model. It was created by virtual-reality designers to show life aboard the real Bristol after it was converted to a floating prison docked near Chatham, in Kent, England. 
~ OMA

When you think about it, without the 350 years of maritime history recreated here, North America would look very different! In my historical research, I often end up back at ships and experiences on the ocean.

I love today’s ocean cruises, but can’t imagine the weeks and months of living on these steamers!

Even the display cases are part of the “feel” of ocean travel. Designed by architect, Frank Gehry, the cases curve like the crest of a wave as they move across the wide open floor space.

What’s in the Art Gallery of Ontario?

The Art Gallery of Ontario has more than 120,000 works! The permanent collection includes historic and current artists.

These are the different galleries.

• Canadian art
• Indigenous art
• European art
• Modern art
• Contemporary art
• Arts of Global Africa & the Diaspora
• Photography
• Prints & Drawings
• The Thomson Collection
• Henry Moore Sculpture Centre

Fast Fact: The Thomson Collection features 300+ works from the Group of Seven and Tom Thomson. They were some of Canada's most influential early artists. 

In addition, the Art Gallery also has a library and archives. It includes 380,000+ pieces. There are many rare books, catalogues, magazines, and more from the 17th century to now.

A dozen curators are in charge of the collection, each one working in the area of their expertise.

Various events open to the public are held in the art museum. They also have a number of educational programs to serve adults and young people.

Linda’s Favorite Artist

Tom Thomson is a name I remember well from my art history classes growing up in Canada. His work continues to influence Canadian art.

He used vibrant colors liberally, something I also like to do in my travel photography.

Thomson grew up in rural Ontario and enjoyed the outdoors. He took a lot of inspiration from his work. What did he do? Thomson worked as a fishing guide and forest ranger in Algonquin Provincial Park.

Thomson wasn’t one of the famous Canadian Group of Seven. Unfortunately, he drowned at the age of 39 in 1917, before the group was founded.

His work consists of around 400 oil sketches on small wood panels and about 50 canvas larger works. Most of his paintings are landscapes.

If you’d like to see more of Tom Thomson’s work and learn more about his life, here are some of my favorite sources.

VIDEO: Canadian video profile of Tom Thomson on YouTube.

VIDEO: Tom Thomson: A Collection of 179 Works on YouTube.

WEBSITE: Tom Thomson Life & Work by David P. Silcox.

ON AMAZON:

https://www.amazon.com/Treasury-Tom-Thomson-Joan-Murray/dp/1553658868?crid=17XSRXDI6INJU&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.115aXiFieuX_vbKGpo3SytvtcOWuVrzbe-I9maKC-iuWv660cpjg4y1zM6XUDzl6p0Y9K254RvEM7a4oEjR_pfNCF08hYFLAahHQF_wczqS_qXaMzU6MkRWPrHvydxT9m72DaZuBpoJS7iLrl77BSNVaBVUrYvATsY_XAwPWMIA_6aYaCk3PQTRV9q70aFJHnO8ETY6rqHswJoe1IziNahNU9I1gaGjObLyJ_UOnRbM.Fkr4ihoPHXSOTm-qgRlQ4p499c24Fxj23LbnT6qVW4Q&dib_tag=se&keywords=tom+thomson&qid=1734123055&s=books&sprefix=tom+thomson%2Cstripbooks-intl-ship%2C176&sr=1-3&linkCode=ll1&tag=snowmaga-20&linkId=576a2698d9bf32bae70119e792d11e66&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl

Linda’s Road Trip Tips

I visit Toronto regularly, and rely on the subway rapid transit system to get around. It’s operated by the Toronto Transit Commission (TTC). On this visit, I took the subway to Toronto Union Station, then used the PATH to walk to the museum.

Fast Fact: The PATH is a 30+ km (18.6 miles) pedestrian walkway that's mostly underground in downtown Toronto. It links to public transit and 1200+ shops, restaurants and services. 

From the art museum, it’s only a five minute walk to the Toronto Eaton Centre. The Toronto Eaton Centre is a large shopping centre in downtown Toronto that links to the subway and the PATH.

After shopping, I decided to have lunch at the Toronto Eaton Centre.

Their food court, Urban Eatery, is gigantic! It covers 45,000 sq ft and seats nearly a thousand people. Food selections are excellent — I had their signature Bourbon Chicken combo at the Bourbon St. Grill.

There are lots of museums to visit in downtown Toronto. I still have a few to visit. Check out the reviews I’ve already done:

• Hockey Hall of Fame & Museum (sports)
• Casa Loma (98 room historic house museum)
• Toronto’s First Post Office Museum (specialty museum)
• Museum of Illusions Toronto (science museum)

Who Should Visit the Art Gallery of Ontario?

Art lovers of any age will find lots to inspire them at the Art Gallery of Ontario.

The museum is accessible to everyone with a wide variety of customer service policies.

The Art Gallery of Ontario has lots of programming and attractions for families.

They provide art making activities to help kids become more creative, as well as offering activities like courses, workshops, dance parties, and more.

There’s always something new at the Gallery, too. They have a continuous rotation of exhibitions.

How Do You Visit the AGO?

The Art Gallery of Ontario is situated in downtown Toronto, Ontario. It’s accessible by car, subway, bus, and the PATH indoor pedestrian walkway.

Street Address: 317 Dundas Street West, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.

Parking: You may want to park at the Toronto Eaton Centre. That will let you shop and eat, as well as visit the AGO. Here's a link to an open app providing parking details, booking, and fees. 

Check the days open, hours, and admission fees on the AGO website.

Keep up to date with the latest news on the AGO Facebook page.

Take a virtual walkthrough of the AGO with Visit Toronto on YouTube.

Plan your visit with Google maps.

Read More Ontario Museum Reviews

Check out all these museum reviews for the Canadian province of Ontario!

Explore More Art Museums

• Art Gallery of Ontario: Art Museum in Toronto, Ontario

• Fort Cody Trading Post: Miniature Wild West Show in North Platte, Nebraska

• Museum of Northern British Columbia: Indigenous Art & History in Prince Rupert, British Columbia

• The Enchanted Highway: Giant Metal Sculptures in North Dakota

#art #Canada #carvings #history #museums #richAndFamous #travel

I just reviewed Can’t Buy Me Love by Georgia Beers! Check it out!

womenusingwords.wordpress.com/2024/09/02/c...

#friendship #wlw #icequeenboss #Hollywood #richandfamous #media #bodyguards #island #paradise #exgirlfriends #love, #instaconnection #romance #fallinginlove @georgiabeers @thebellabooks

"Dozens of people linked to pedophile Jeffrey Epstein won’t be having a Happy New Year after a judge ordered the release of their names in the first few days of January."

~ Kate Briquelet

#JeffreyEpstein #sunlight #SexTrafficking #RichandFamous

https://www.thedailybeast.com/judge-loretta-preska-orders-release-of-sealed-docs-naming-jeffrey-epstein-associates

@verdantsquare Bye Bye champaign desires and caviar dreams.

#RichAndFamous #RobinLeach

Museum of Ingenuity: Ski-Doo Snowmobile Museum in Valcourt, Quebec

The Museum of Ingenuity is about much more than the machine J. Armand Bombardier is most famous for — the Ski-Doo snowmobile. Built in Bombardier’s hometown of Valcourt, Quebec, in 1971, this museum attraction celebrates ingenuity and creativity.

On your visit, you can also take a 3.5 hour tour of the Bombardier recreation products manufacturing plant.

What’s in the Ski-Doo Snowmobile Museum?

The Museum of Ingenuity, or Ski-doo museum, highlights the legacy of skidoo inventor, J. Armand Bombardier.

His story begins as a teenager, when he managed to get an old Ford engine running and mounted on a sleigh. He even managed to drive the contraption on the town’s main streets!

After that, Bombardier’s dream was to invent a machine for one rider that would float over the snow.

Credited with inventing the snowmobile, Bombardier was one of various inventors who registered patents on snow machine related innovations. In fact, Carl Eliason, built a snow machine in 1924 that he patented as a motor toboggan. It was the forerunner of the snowmobiles we ride today.

However, Bombardier was the first to move from hand built machines to an assembly line production for his Ski-Doo snowmobile in 1959.

In fact, the first production sled rolled off the Quebec assembly line in 1959. A mere 54 years from that first sled, the three millionth Ski-Doo, a 2014 Ski-Doo Summit X E-TEC 800R, was built in Valcourt. Today, these are just a few of the originals in the museum.

In the Collection

The Museum of Ingenuity has around 6500 artifacts in its collection. This includes:

• 175 models of machines, including many skidoos
• 44 engines
• 124 personal items that belonged to J. Armand Bombardier
• 5000+ other objects
• 200,000+ photos
• 11,185 technical drawings
• 5500 videos
• 1600+ advertisements
• About 1 km of linear documents

The most signficant part of the collection consists of various snowmobiles and their contribution to the development of Ski-Doo. In addition to snow machines, you’ll also find spec sheets for most of the models on display.

More of Bombardier’s Inventions in the Museum

J. Armand's first major invention was the sprocket wheel/track system in 1935. 

With this develoment, his little garage expanded and he added a production plant that saw the development of many different types of tracked machines.

Bombardier’s machines started with his initial multi-passenger snowmobiles, known where I lived as a kid as bombardiers. During the war years, he developed snow machines for the military, including the Kaki, an armored tracked vehicle.

Post-war, his biggest increase in sales came from the C18 snowmobile that carried up to 25 school children.

In the 1950s, Bombardier manufactured and sold a BT (Bombardier truck) and Muskeg tractor. He also built various tracked machines for forestry.

Beyond the Ski-Doo Snow Machines

J. Armand died in 1964, but the legacy of his innovations and patents continued to keep the company growing. The main part branched out into manufacturing trains and planes.

BRP, the leisure product line of machines, diversified to provide rides for all seasons including: Ski-Doo and Lynx snowmobiles, Sea-Doo watercraft, Can-Am off-road vehicles, Can-Am Spyder 3-wheel vehicles, karts and light and ultra light aircrafts.

Linda’s Pick of the Exhibits

My favorite exhibit was the machine driven by Jean-Luc Bombardier on the Plaisted Polar Expedition. Having driven lots of miles off trails with my own Ski-Doo, I’m amazed that the team ever got through those 800 miles on 1968 models!

However, they were successful at driving four skidoos 800 miles across the frozen Arctic Ocean. Indeed they reached the geographic North Pole in 43 days. A United States Air Force weather reconnaissance plane verified their position at the North Pole the next day, April 20, 1968.

The snowmobiles were modified to add an additional gas tank (check it out on the photo of Jean-Luc’s sled) and the seat was shortened for storage. Iron rods were added to the track to reinforce it for better traction.

Since they were crossing frozen water at the end of the winter season, a styrofoam flotation system was added. This helped them cross the thin ice.

Snowmobile gear of the time wasn’t at all like we wear today! So, they had specially designed parkas and pants made with goose down and wolf fur. The suits were based on the traditional clothing of the Inuit who live in the Arctic. They also had caribou leather mitts.

Linda’s Road Trip Tips

David and I visited the Museum of Ingenuity on a trip hosted by Tourism Quebec. We started in Valcourt, visiting the museum and watching the Grand Prix Ski-Doo de Valcourt. The race is held annually, so do plan your visit to Valcourt to take it in if you enjoy speed and competition.

And of course, we toured the BRP factory. Do plan to take it in as well.

After the race, we drove further east out of the Eastern Townships region to Gaspesie for a snowmobile trip. We snowmobiled 1000 miles in five days (four nights) with everything we needed strapped to the snowmobiles (including my laptop computer so I could teach via videoconference in the evenings!).

If you ever get the chance to go snowmobiling in Quebec, I highly recommend it! The scenery is supurb and Quebec has 6000 km (3700 miles) of groomed trails.

Who Should Visit the Museum of Ingenuity: J. Armand Bombardier?

The museum is a great opportunity for adults and children alike to explore the history of winter travel in Canada’s snowiest regions. Snowmobilers, even if they don’t ride Ski-Doo, will also enjoy the visit.

Of course, the Museum of Ingenuity also has information on the later transportation products produced by Bombardier. So those interested in planes and trains will find it interesting, too.

As well as seeing the museum, visitors can also get tickets (advance only) for a 3.5 tour of the Bombardier manufacturing plant.

How Do You Visit the Ski-Doo Museum in Valcourt, Quebec?

Visit in person at 1001 Avenue J.-A.-Bombardier, Valcourt, QC

Visit the museum on the Web to check opening days, pricing, and to buy advance tickets.

Watch a short YouTube video introduction to the museum.

Plan your trip with Google maps.

Read More Quebec Museum Reviews

Check out all these museum reviews for the Canadian province of Quebec!

Discover More Snowmobile Museums

• Miracle of America Museum: 40+ Buildings in Polson, Montana

• Vilas Historical Museum: Snowmobiles to Paul Bunyan in a Wisconsin Museum

• World Snowmobile Headquarters Museum: Eagle River, Wisconsin

• Polaris Experience Center: Polaris Snowmobile Museum in Roseau, Minnesota

• Museum of Ingenuity: Ski-Doo Snowmobile Museum in Valcourt, Quebec

• Top of the Lake Snowmobile Museum: Naubinway, Michigan

• Snowmobile Hall of Fame and Museum: St. Germain, Wisconsin

Reference(s)

Aksomitis, L. (2003). Amazing Stories: Snowmobile Adventures. Winnipeg, MB: Altitude Publishing.

Snowmobile Hall of Fame. (2023). Joseph Armand Bombardier. https://www.snowmobilehalloffame.com/joseph-armand-bombardier/

Acknowledgements

We visited the Museum of Ingenuity on a trip hosted by Quebec Tourism. Our experiences were amazing!

#Canada #history #motorsports #museums #Quebec #richAndFamous #snowmobiles #travel