Artifact Donations

Guelph Museums collects artifacts that tell stories about Guelph’s historical past and present-day lived experiences. Artifacts are used for documentation, preservation, research, exhibition, and interpretation in benefit to the broad community

We collect objects and photographs, as well as print, audio-visual and digital material. We aim to acquire artifacts that are complete and in good condition with a well-documented history of use and ownership.

There are three focused collections at Guelph Museums:

1. Guelph Civic Museum Collection (including Locomotive 6167)

The Civic Museum brings Guelph’s regional narratives, past and present, to life. Locomotive 6167 is one of 203 “Northern” locomotives used by Canadian National Railways during the Second World War and for special excursion trips throughout Ontario.

2. McCrae House Collection

McCrae House is a National Historic Site and the birthplace of Lieutenant Colonel John McCrae (1872-1918), the First World War doctor, soldier and poet who penned “In Flanders Fields.”

3. Rapid Response Collecting

People and communities in Guelph and around the world are living moments in local, national and international history, including the COVID-19 pandemic and initiatives in solidarity with Black Lives Matter. Rapid Response Collecting aims to preserve the stories, experiences and activism of Guelph individuals, families, and communities in crises together.

The Collections Committee assesses all artifacts offered to the Guelph Museums. The Committee is looking for artifacts that help the Museum to tell stories about Guelph: the people and communities, places and events, businesses and organizations, both in the past and the present.

This form asks a number of questions about you and your donation. Your answers help the Committee to understand the stories that your artifacts tell. The more details you are able to share will strengthen your donation offer.

The Collections Committee reviews all artifacts offered to Guelph Museums.

The Committee is looking for artifacts that help the Museum to tell stories about Guelph: the people and communities, places and events, businesses and organizations, both in the past and the present.