(The 1st Stittsville Cub Pack in 1986. Front row left to right: Robert McKinley, Michael Coltas, Doug Kenny, Bill Kenny. Second row: Larry Ritchie, Danny Hiscoe, Howard Ralph, Robin Harrison. Third row: Barry Graham, Eric Moore, Brent Ritchie. Back: Hector Garvie, Assistant Cub Master; Percy McKinley, Cub Master. Photo: Stittsville Women’s Institute Collection)
As summer begins to wind down, August is the perfect time to slow the pace, explore something new, and reconnect with the stories that make our community unique. This month, we are excited to share not one, but two new exhibits that celebrate the people, places, and traditions that have helped shape both Stittsville and Canada.
Take a stroll through the Ottawa Public Library’s Stittsville Branch and discover A Walk Through Stittsville, featuring historic photographs of familiar landmarks. Then stop by the Goulbourn Museum to experience Scouting in Canada, an exhibit that explores generations of outdoor adventure, leadership, community service, and the lasting impact of the Scouting movement.
Whether you are a lifelong resident, new to the area, or simply curious about local history, we hope you will take some time to visit these exhibits, share them with friends and family, and enjoy discovering the stories that continue to connect our community. We look forward to seeing you this August!
Family and Children’s Programming
Meet your new Carton Pal at this Family Craft Day! On August 22nd, from 10:00am – 2:00pm, turn ordinary egg cartons into adorable animal friends using paint, googly eyes, pompoms, pipe cleaners, buttons, and more. Whether you create a wiggly caterpillar, a fluttering butterfly, a playful puppy, or an imaginative creature all your own, you’ll have everything you need to design a one of a kind Carton Pal to take home. This hands-on program is perfect for children ages 4–11. Admission is $5 per participant, and parents or guardians are required to remain onsite with their children throughout the program. Registration: https://square.link/u/5MdLz7IH
Adult Programming
Step into the world of the unexplained on Thursday, August 13th from 6:30 – 9:30pm with the Paranormal Seekers in this fascinating evening lecture. Discover how paranormal investigations are conducted, explore the technology used to search for supernatural activity, and hear firsthand accounts of the team’s most intriguing experiences during their investigations. The evening concludes with a live paranormal reading using authentic artefacts from the Museum’s collection, offering a unique opportunity to explore the stories and mysteries that may be connected to these historic objects. Whether you are a skeptic, a believer, or simply curious, this is an evening you won’t want to miss. Tickets are just $12.50 per person, and all proceeds from the event will go directly toward supporting the Museum’s educational programs, exhibitions, and community initiatives. Space is limited, so be sure to book your tickets in advance to reserve your spot. Registration: https://square.link/u/N9MHgQ1c
Discover the art of traditional bookbinding in this hands-on workshop taking place on Wednesday, August 19th from 6:00 – 9:00 pm. Guided by our instructor, you will learn the step by step process of creating your own handmade book from start to finish. Once your book is assembled, you will personalize it by filling its pages with a themed collage of your choosing, creating a one of a kind keepsake that reflects your creativity. Join us for an inspiring evening that combines artistic expression with a deeper appreciation for the history of everyday objects. The cost is $45.00 and includes all supplies and light refreshments. This workshop is designed for participants ages 16 and up. Registration: https://square.link/u/MMUroPW6
Discover the art of calligraphy in this hands-on workshop taking place on Wednesday, September 2nd from 6:00 – 9:00pm. Guided by Richard Draffin of the Ottawa Calligraphy Society, this workshop will teach the basics of modern calligraphy, exploring contemporary lettering and traditional techniques. The step by step process is designed for beginners and no previous experience is needed, our smaller class size provides a supportive learning experience. Join us for an inspiring evening that combines artistic expression with a deeper appreciation for the history of everyday objects. The cost is $45 and includes all supplies and light refreshments. This workshop is designed for participants ages 16 and up. Registration: https://square.link/u/0exC8nTX
Community Events
The Goulbourn Museum is excited to again participate in the 182nd Richmond Fair this September 18th – 20th. Make sure you visit our booth for fun and interactive activities.
The countdown to one of our most cherished community traditions has begun! Mark your calendar for Sunday, November 22nd, when Goulbourn Museum transforms into a festive gathering place for our annual Old Fashioned Christmas celebration. While summer is still in full swing, behind the scenes we are already busy planning a day filled with holiday cheer, local shopping, family activities, seasonal treats, and the warm community spirit that has made this event a favourite year after year.
Calling Local Outdoor Vendors
We are looking for three outdoor vendors to join us during our holiday event. If you’re a local artisan, maker, or small business offering handcrafted goods, seasonal greenery, or festive treats, we would love to hear from you! Vendor spaces are available for businesses with an outdoor, winter-ready setup.
Help Make Our Raffle a Success
Each year, our raffle draws are made possible through the incredible generosity of local businesses and community members. If you would like to donate a gift basket, gift certificate, product, or experience, your contribution will help make this year’s event even more special while supporting the Museum’s programming and community initiatives.
Whether you would like to become a vendor, donate a raffle prize, or simply join us for a festive day with family and friends, we would love to have you be part of this year’s celebration. To inquire about becoming a vendor or donating a raffle prize, please email us – we would be delighted to hear from you at info@goulbournmuseum.ca
The Goulbourn Museum is seeking community members to join its volunteer Board of Directors. Board members help support the Museum’s work in sharing the stories, histories and lived experiences that have shaped our community through exhibitions, programs, and events.
We are seeking Board members from across the former Township of Goulbourn, including Richmond, Stittsville, Ashton, Munster, and surrounding rural areas, who can bring their local knowledge, connections and perspectives to help broaden the voices represented in the Museum’s leadership.
We are seeking people who can contribute their knowledge, skills, and ideas in areas such as community engagement, fundraising, finance, governance, communications, education, events, partnerships and volunteer development. We also welcome individuals who bring unique perspectives and connections to our community.
If you are interested in making a meaningful impact, we encourage you to submit a nomination or reach out to learn more about the role. Contact us at: info@goulbournmuseum.ca.
