STEP BACK INTO TIME AT THE PERTH MUSEUM
Leave the 21st century behind as you enter the world of the 1840's at the elegant Matheson House, home of the award winning Perth Museum. This popular tourist attraction, located in downtown heritage Perth, is a National Historic Site.
The stone dwelling was built in 1840 for the Honourable Roderick Matheson, wealthy merchant and a senator in Canada’s first parliament after Confederation. The four period rooms - parlour, dining room, drawing room and a warm and welcoming kitchen - have been carefully restored and furnished to reflect the lifestyle of the Matheson family who owned the house for 90 years.
The museum features a full calendar of changing exhibitions in the main gallery while the third floor gallery tells the story of Perth’s colourful past, featuring the pistols from the “Last Fatal Duel” in 1833; the story of the Mammoth Cheese that won first prize at the Chicago World’s Fair in 1893 and much more. There is something of interest to everyone in this gallery.
Outdoors, to the right of the museum visitors will find a charming enclosed Scottish garden containing flowering plants and shrubs true to the era. An outdoor bake oven and kitchen herb garden can be found on the other side. The museum holds outdoor activities and pioneer demonstrations at various times throughout the season in this courtyard.
The goal of the Perth Museum is to preserve the cultural heritage of our town for the benefit and enjoyment of people now and in the years to come. You are invited to visit the museum and see for yourself that history can be fun and interesting. The Perth Museum is open Monday to Sunday, 10-5pm all year round. The museum is located at 11 Gore St. East and is air conditioned for your comfort. Municipal parking is available behind the museum and group tours are welcome. Admission is by donation. Call (613) 267-1947 for more information.
Click here for a Perth Museum Fact Sheet.
Click here to learn more about Museum-School Programs.
Click here to review the Museum Needs Assessment Final Report.
Perth Museum Advisory Panel
The Perth Museum is operated by an Advisory Panel. Karen Rennie is the Heritage Manager/Curator. Meetings are held the third Monday of every other month at 4:00pm at the Museum, except during July and August.
For more information or to make a donation, please call Karen Rennie at the Perth Museum at 267-1947.
