Today the Canadian Museum of History collects, studies, preserves and displays objects which reflect Canadian history and the cultural diversity of its people. Located on the shores of the Ottawa River, discover 1,000 years of human history through four permanent galleries during your two hour visit to the museum.
Canada Hall
Split into two sections, journey through 1,000 years of Canada’s social history under the museum’s 17-meter dome ceiling. Explore the interior of a Basque ship, reconstructed scenes of early European activity, a New France farmhouse and public square, British military quarters and more in the first section of Canada Hall dating from 1000 A.D. to 1885. The second section of the hall represents items from 1885 to 2000. Catch an imaginary train at the turn-of-the century railway station. Other holdings include a Ukrainian church shipped to Canada, a West Coast fisheries scene, and Yellowknife’s Wildcat Café echoing stories from the North’s past.
Grand Hall
Boasting a curving six-story window and unparalleled views of Parliament Hill, Grand Hall is one of the most remarkable indoor public spaces and the Canadian Museum of Civilization’s architectural centerpiece. Offering an introduction to the history, cultures and beliefs of the first peoples of Canada’s Pacific Coast, delight in six houses connected by the Pacific Coast shoreline, a remarkable collection of totem poles and works including Bill Reid’s original plaster pattern for Spirit of Haida Gwaii and Robert Davidson’s celebrated sculpture Bringing Light to the World. Behind the six houses you’ll find two exhibits.
The First People of the Northwest Coast
Examine the renowned cultures of the first people of the Northwest Coast. Historic and contemporary artifacts from the museum’s pre-eminent collection can be found placed throughout the different themes of this exhibit.
From Time Immemorial- Tsimshian Prehistory
Portrayed through an ancient forest setting, archaeological finds between 1966 and 1978 in the Prince Rupert region of British Columbia allow you to discover the ways of the Tsimshian Nation.
First Peoples Hall
The imposing First Peoples Hall explores cultural, historical and artistic achievements of Canada’s first people. From its early origins to present day, admire the various elements of Canada’s native identity in this 2,000 square meter hall.
Face to Face: The Canadian Personalities Hall
Come face to face with 27 remarkable individuals in the Canadian Personalities Hall and see who is behind Canadian history. This gallery features faces that have shaped Canadian history.
Shopping in the Boutique
At the Boutique you can browse through a selection of Canadian souvenirs, items which support the Canadian Museum of History’s permanent exhibits, unusual objects made by Canadian artisan and other unique gifts and keepsakes all of which you can take home with you to remember your time at the museum.