Our Story

Campbell River and District Museum and Archives Society

The Collection Area

The Museum collection comprises ethnographic, historic, archaeological and archival material of the northern Vancouver Island area, specifically from Oyster River east to Desolation Sound and north to Rivers Inlet, including off-shore islands; west to Gold River and beyond to the outer coast at Estevan Point, and north to the tip of Vancouver Island.

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Campbell River Museum Exterior

The Building and Exhibits

1958

A Sports Fishing Lodge Exhibit

The Museum began with an exhibit in the lobby of a sports fishing lodge in 1958, that was collected and presented by a group of people interested in the human history of Northern Vancouver Island and in particular in First Nations art and culture. The Museum was registered as a non-profit society in 1961, governed by a Board of Trustees.

1987

Planning for a New Facility

By 1978 the collection had outgrown this facility, and planning for a new facility began in 1987.

1994

A 21,000 square foot facility

Eleven recognized experts on the history and ethnology of the region helped to develop an outline of potential topics. By 1989 a floor plan and basic scale model was made of the major exhibits plan. A 21,000 square foot facility was completed in 1994, and includes 7,000 square feet for a major exhibits gallery and 1,700 square feet for temporary exhibits.

Now

Offering Indoor and Outdoor Activities

Located on a seven-acre wooded site, it has a commanding view of Discovery Passage (an active shipping lane running between Campbell River and Quadra Island). The forested site offers excellent opportunities for outdoor activities, displays and interpretation.

History on the Water Boat Tours

Join us on an unforgettable journey through the Discovery Islands, where the past meets the present and the wildlife is as fascinating as the stories.

As you keep an eye out for local wildlife, including whales, sea lions, and eagles, our Museum Guide will entertain you with captivating stories of the people who have called this region home. From the indigenous peoples who first inhabited the islands to the settlers who braved the wilderness, every story is a testament to the resilience and determination of those who came before us.

Museum at Campbell River respectfully acknowledges the Liǧʷiɫdax̌ʷ First Nation, on whose traditional lands we work to preserve, interpret and share the collective human history of North Vancouver Island. The Liǧʷiɫdax̌ʷ First Nation is comprised of the We Wai Kai, Wei Wai Kum and Kwiakah First Nations. Our closest neighbors are the Coast Salish Xwemalhkwu, Klahoose and K’ómoks First Nations.

These nations have close connections to the land where Campbell River is located today.

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