Rideau District Museum

Located at 29 Bedford Street, the Rideau District Museum is open for summer season, May to September (with the exception of some special events, listed below).

The Rideau District in Westport was established in 1961 by a group of concerned citizens to collect, preserve and display to the public the artifacts reflecting the history and people of our region’s past.  It is house in an authentic blacksmith and carriage shop constructed in the 1850’s.  The forges, bellows, and handmade iron tools remain in their original setting.

The museum has many unique and interesting artifacts, including an original wooden dump cart used in the construction of the Rideau Canal between 1826-32. Other items of note include the doors of the hearse that carried through the streets of Kingston, Ontario, the body of Canada’s first Prime Minister, Sir John A. MacDonald.

“Sally Grant”  Statue of Justice (pictured above to the left) 1844, is our most treasured artifact and is an imposing eleven feet tall.  She was carved in 1844 from a single white cedar tree.  Sally graced the roof of the County Court House in Brockville until 1956 when she had to be removed due to deterioration.  Our museum claimed her in 1961.  In 1978-9, the Canadian Conservation Institute did extensive reconstruction work on her.  Now she stands proudly once again, commanding the attention of all who visit the Rideau District Museum. 

The life and works of the people dating from the First Nations are reflected in the ingenious toos, gadgets, toys, clothing, documents, letters, and means of travel.  Local businesses, industry, culture and entertainment are also well represented.

Photos and Information

Our History in Photos
Museum Information

Hours of Operation

June: Thursday to Sunday – Inclusive

July to Labour Day – Daily from:
Monday to Saturday 10:00am – 4:30pm
Sunday 1:00pm – 4:30pm

(Groups by appointment are welcome)

Upcoming Events

For more information call the Museum at 613-273-2502.