About our Members and Volunteers
We are extremely proud of our members, they are a dedicated group from all walks of life. Everyone is involved in various aspects of
The Society, from the Executive and Board of Directors to the Tour Guides, Staff and members who support us year after year.
Thank you all !
Volunteers
Committees
Staff
Supporters
Partners
People who have made a difference in our past
The Whitby Historical Society
was formed in 1967 as a way to preserve Whitby and Area history for future generations. In 2004 The Whitby History Museum & Children's Centre
was opened downtown.
Read below about our history over the last 40 years!
Help Raise Funds
for
The New
Whitby Museum Complex
Larger displays
...more space for
children, youth and family activities.
A Fine Arts Heritage Crafts Guild
New Interesting subjects from Aboriginal Life
to the Present Day
A warm and inviting place for our community
History of The Society
The Whitby Historical Society was founded in 1967 as a Centennial Project for Canada’s Centennial that same year. It was Incorporated as a Registered Charity in 1968.
The Whitby Historical Society has opened its collection to the public through a Museum in various temporary locations over the years.
1. Centennial Building in Whitby, (originally the Ontario County Court House)
2. The Community Temperance Hall in Myrtle.
3. Lynde House, at Dundas and McQuay from 1972 to 1986 when Lynde House was moved to Cullen Gardens.
The land where Lynde House once stood is now a shopping mall. Cullen Gardens was closed at the end of 2005, the property was bought by the Town of Whitby and is now in the process of being
re-defined.
4. In 2004, The Whitby Historical Society proudly opened its doors once again presenting The Whitby History Museum & Children's Centre 123 Brock St. South, Whitby Ontario. Occupying a portion of historic London House in the heart of Whitby’s downtown. L. 123-125 Brock St. S. (1878/79) - Originally called London House, this building was constructed in 1878 for Andrew M. Ross (see #30), a dry goods merchant and grocer.
The collection of artifacts was first housed at Kendalwood Plaza for two years until being put in storage for 17 years. A dedicated group of volunteers worked tirelessly at fundraising in order to again open The Collection to public viewing.
Since its opening the History Museum & Children's Centre has been visited by people from home and abroad, many are astounded at the size of the collection and the attractive, ever changing displays.
The History Museum offers themed displays, special events and demonstrations in old time activities and many Heritage Skills are taught in workshops and at events such as Heritage Day.
School children, Scouts and Guides, especially enjoy the butter making, candle making and pioneer kitchen ‘hands on’ activities.
One child didn't know how corn meal was made, other are fascinated with the corn planter on display at the museum.
Our volunteer tour guides and planners are always looking for new ways to make the History Museum a fun and interesting place to visit.
The Whitby Historical Society wishes to thank the community for its tremendous support for the History Museum.
Now the Whitby Historical Society is running out of room at The London House, every month, more people sign up for activities, volunteers have new ideas, the community has embraced the little centre and we are ready to move to larger premises. To do that we are embarking on the largest fundraising project in our history. We intend to raise funds through approaching Foundations, Government Grants, Corporations, local business and the general public. You can help !
2007 marks 40 years for the Whitby Historical Society!
Teddy says, " You can help raise funds for a New Museum Complex. Everyone counts. It is your museum !"
"Many small people who in many small places do many small things can alter the face of the world. "
Found on The Berlin Wall
Some people are asking where the New Museum Complex will be located ...
Well, we are hoping for a location close to the downtown Whitby core, as this is where most people feel there is a need. We have had many downtown merchants praise us for being downtown, we've raised the standard of window displays, and directed people to their businesses. Downtown Whitby is a great place to shop, get ideas and there are several wonderful restaurants and cafes for your enjoyment.
The New Museum Complex and where it is located, all depends on the donations received and funds raised.
