SMALLER MUSEUMS WORTH THE DRIVE

Keen insight into local history — and they’re close by

GOULBOURN MUSEUM 2064 HUNTLEY ROAD, STITTSVILLE

Focusing on the former Goulbourn Township, now part of the City of Ottawa, this museum is unusual among its small compatriots in that it’s very much hands-on. Press the button next to the musket and you hear what gunfire must have sounded like in the War of 1812 (the 100th Regiment of Foot settled Goulbourn after the war).

In The Village Store, children are encouraged to play with replicas of baking and other artefacts, try on old-timey hats and gloves, and use the post office.

The thumb-able reproduction of a 1902 Sears-Roebuck catalogue features the latest butter churn and, starting as low as $2.25, ladies’ mourning bonnets.

Also in the museum: agricultural, blacksmithing and other items as well as a special exhibit on the history of local street names, the latter including Stittsville’s first street lamp. Hours: Wed.-Sun., 1-4 p.m., year-round. Cost: By donation Information: 613-831-2393, goulbournmuseum.ca