Learning about the past can be exciting and fun, especially in communities like Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows. Their local museums offer many ways to connect with history through stories, artifacts, and family-friendly events.
The Maple Ridge Historical Society, formed in 1957, runs both the Maple Ridge Museum and the Haney House Museum. Together, they help preserve the stories of the local area through more than 15,000 historical objects in their collection.
This summer, the Maple Ridge Museum is inviting the community to share their personal stories as part of a new project called “Here of All Places.” This project is being done in partnership with Celebrate Earth Day. Residents are asked to share what brought them and their families to Maple Ridge. The museum will later add these stories to an online exhibit so more people can learn about local journeys and roots.
Other exciting programs are also happening this summer. The museum will continue its headstone preservation project at both the Maple Ridge and Whonnock Cemeteries. This helps maintain the history and respect for those who came before.
Another summer favorite is Music on the Wharf, a lively outdoor music series for all ages. The museum also runs Museum on the Move, a traveling exhibit that pops up around the city to bring history directly to the public.
In nearby Pitt Meadows, the Pitt Meadows Heritage and Museum Society looks after two special heritage locations – the Old General Store and the Hoffmann & Son Machine Shop, both found on Harris Road.
These sites offer many programs throughout the year that are great for children and families.
One popular event series is Heritage Thursdays, which runs from July 10 to August 14 this year. With the theme “If I Could Turn Back Time,” kids aged 5 to 12 can enjoy crafts, games, and snacks for just $10 per session. Each week brings a new activity that helps children connect with the past in a fun and creative way.
During Pitt Meadows Day on Saturday, June 7, the museum will join the celebrations with a colorful display. Look out for volunteers showing off a vintage Ferguson tractor, along with a trailer full of historical artifacts during the parade. Later that day, museum staff will be at Harris Road Athletic Park, where families can check out a working water wheel, antique engines, and even make yarn dolls.
The museum will also be present at Spirit Square during Canada Day, bringing more fun and history to the community celebration.
Year-round, the museum hosts Museum Sundays. Each Sunday, for a $2 donation, kids can receive a themed craft kit that includes instructions, materials, a mini book from the museum galleries, and a sticker. A new theme is introduced every month, making each Sunday visit a unique experience.
After Pitt Meadows Day, the museum’s summer hours begin and continue through August. The General Store will be open Wednesday through Sunday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., while the Hoffmann & Son Machine Shop will be open 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. during the same days.
More events are planned for the fall, with updates to be announced later in the year.
Both Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows museums offer a rich and welcoming way to explore local history. Whether through hands-on programs for kids or story-sharing for adults, these museums help keep the past alive in today’s busy world.
