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Perth Museum

Housed in the beautiful Matheson House at 11 Gore Street East, a National Historic Site built in 1840, the Perth Museum offers a glimpse into the rich history of Perth and the surrounding area. The museum's permanent exhibits showcase the town’s development through artifacts, stories, and displays that capture its heritage and culture.

Visitors can explore a variety of rooms, including the stunning Matheson House gardens and restored interiors, which reflect life in early 19th-century Ontario. The museum also features rotating exhibits, special events, and educational programs throughout the year.

Located in the heart of Perth, the museum is the perfect place for history enthusiasts, families, and anyone looking to learn more about this historic town. Whether you're a local or a visitor, the Perth Museum invites you to step back in time and experience the stories that have shaped this vibrant community.

FAQs

The Perth Museum is open Wednesday to Sunday from 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Admission is by donation, and the amount is up to you! Your generous contributions help us maintain our collections, support exhibitions and programming, and keep the historic Matheson House in great condition. We accept cash, debit, credit, as well as Apple Pay and Google Pay. You can also book a self-guided tour for up to five people in advance to secure your spot.

If you're bringing a large group (10 or more people) please contact us by email or phone at 613-267-1947 to arrange a tour. We can also help you plan the rest of your trip in Perth! Whether you’d like a guided tour around town, recommendations for restaurants and activities, or even a special greeting from the Perth Town Crier, we’ve got you covered.

The Perth Museum building is a split-level with several accessible features. Visitors can access the Visitor Information Centre through a ramp from the courtyard and an interior ramp that provides access to the 1840s kitchen, 1840s dining room, and 1890s parlour, all without crossing any stairs. The Visitor Information Centre and washrooms are located on the same level for added convenience.

On the main level, you’ll find accessible displays, including the famous Mammoth Cheese exhibit from the 1893 Chicago World’s Fair and the dueling pistols from the Last Fatal Duel in 1833.

The building includes accessibility buttons on both the Visitor Information Centre door and the accessible washroom door. We’re also working to update exhibit labels to size 18 font or larger.

Please note that the third-floor gallery and the second-floor drawing room are not accessible to visitors with mobility issues. However, you can explore many of our artefacts online through our evolving museum collection portal.

For more information or accessibility concerns, feel free to contact us at 613-267-1947.

While there are breakable items within reach of children, we strive to make the Perth Museum engaging for younger visitors too! Kids can enjoy a self-guided tour designed just for them, search for hidden stuffed mice in the displays, and participate in occasional craft kits for special occasions.

The museum also offers an accessible washroom with a change table, and strollers are welcome via the courtyard ramp. You can bring your stroller into the Visitor Information Centre, the 1840s kitchen, dining room, and parlour. If you're planning to visit the upper floors, strollers can be safely left at the back of the Visitor Information Centre, provided the museum isn’t too busy.

Yes! Tour fees vary based on the size of your group. Please contact us by email or call 613-267-1947 and we'll sort out the details with you. 

Yes! The Perth Museum has hosted small weddings, baby showers, and other events both indoors and outdoors. Fees are set annually by Perth Town Council and vary based on the size of your group and your specific needs. Contact us by email or phone (613-267-1947) to discuss the details, and we’ll help plan your special event.

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