The Museum

Museum History

Originally located in the John McLean House (c. 1840) at 10 Principale Street, the Aylmer Museum has stood as witness over the years to the urban, cultural and educational scene in Aylmer. An off-shoot of the Aylmer Heritage Association in 1987, the Museum has contributed through its varied programmes and activities to bring local and regional history to life. Geology, First Nations peoples in the Outaouais, explorers, fur traders, the timber industry, the age of the steamboats and many other facets of the life of the region have all been presented by the Museum.

By moving into greater Gatineau’s most outstanding heritage building, the Museum is continuing its main theme: the Ottawa River and its tributaries from the pre-European period to the present. Because of its strategic location, the Symmes Inn is at the heart of Aylmer and is an important centre of activities for the nearby Corrid’Art and heritage district.

Thanks to its permanent, temporary and travelling exhibits, and in cooperation with the three historical and heritage societies in Gatineau, as well as local colleges and universities, libraries and other stakeholders, the Museum will be the catalyst for popularizing local and regional history for both young and old. It will also encourage historical research and writing. In this way the Museum will contribute to the development of a sense of identity and pride for the residents of Gatineau and the entire Outaouais.

As a non-profit organization, the Museum depends entirely on the commitment of its members and volunteers and the donations and grants that it receives.