The Vernon Museum offers a glimpse into the rich history of the North Okanagan, bringing local stories and heritage to life through interactive exhibits, artifacts, and events. Visitors can explore permanent displays while engaging with rotating exhibits, pop-ups, and virtual content that highlight historical and contemporary topics. The Museum fosters a connection between the community and its past through educational programs, a speaker series, and hands-on activities for all ages.
Exhibits that Bring History to Life
The Vernon Museum showcases an impressive collection of artifacts and exhibits that reflect the region's diverse heritage. The permanent displays transport visitors to different eras of the Okanagan's past. Visitors can take in the striking contrast between the elegant 1910 Minty Coach and the humble yet significant Secwépemc dug-out canoe, highlighting the blend of cultures and histories that shape the area. Walking along the Museum's boardwalk, you get a feel for what early life in Vernon was like, while exhibits like the 1930s house offer an interactive look into everyday living conditions during that time.
In addition to these permanent fixtures, the Museum also creates space for temporary exhibits that keep things fresh. Events like the Gameboard Chronicles, which takes visitors on a trip through the history of board games, offer fun and surprising insights. Also, there are virtual exhibits such as the "Vernon Serves" exhibit, which honours local men and women who served in the military and provides a reflective connection to the community's role in war and peace. Each exhibit offers a different perspective on the people, events, and innovations that have influenced the North Okanagan.
Exploring the Archives
One of the most valuable resources the Vernon Museum offers is its archives. The Greater Vernon Archives are well-regarded across the province, serving as an important repository of historical documents and records. Researchers, historians, and anyone curious about family history or local events can access an extensive collection of papers, photographs, and rare publications. With staff available to assist and preserve delicate records, the archives provide a wealth of knowledge for anyone interested in the more profound stories of the region.
For those exploring genealogy, the Museum provides complimentary access to Ancestry.com, offering tools to uncover personal connections to history. The archives are also home to the John Shephard Reference Library, which contains over 2,800 rare and out-of-print publications on topics ranging from natural history to military events.
Educational and Community Programs
The Vernon Museum is deeply committed to educating the community, offering a wide range of educational programs for all ages. From school field trips to speaker series, the Museum provides opportunities for learning that are both engaging and interactive. School programs tie directly to the British Columbia curriculum, offering hands-on experiences that bring history to life for students. Teachers can book tours incorporating the Museum's exhibits and surrounding natural areas, allowing students to connect with local flora and fauna.
For adults, the Museum regularly hosts speaker events, such as talks on the history of the Grey Canal or Vernon's Masonic Lodge. You can explore the transformation of the North Okanagan through "Ways of Water: Stories of the Grey Canal." In operation from 1914 to 1971, this irrigation system brought water into the valley and shaped local agriculture. Through filmed interviews, learn how this engineering feat impacted land use and settlement in the region. Additionally, you can discover the fascinating history of Vernon's Miriam Masonic Lodge, #20 on the Grand Registry of B.C. and Yukon, with local historians Greg Poirier and Larry Lundgren. With over 125 years of history in Vernon, the Lodge has played a significant role in the community, including its connections to early Chinese residents. These sessions highlight lesser-known aspects of local history and invite the community to learn more about their surroundings.
Events and Activities for Everyone
The Vernon Museum offers something for everyone, with a packed calendar of events and activities year-round. The Museum's commitment to creating engaging community experiences is clear, whether it's through hosting special exhibits or facilitating interactive workshops. Programs like "Ways of Water: Stories of the Grey Canal" allow visitors to look into the region's agricultural past, exploring how early irrigation systems transformed the landscape and economy of the North Okanagan.
For families, the Museum provides a hands-on Natural History area, inviting kids to learn about the environment and wildlife up close. Events like the Gameboard Chronicles bring in new audiences by showcasing the fun side of history, while ongoing partnerships with local organizations help to keep the Museum a central hub of cultural activity in Vernon.
Historic Downtown Mural Tours
The Historic Downtown Mural Tour offers a guided walk through Vernon's past, as told through the murals that line the streets of downtown. Led by a knowledgeable guide, the tour brings to life the stories of the individuals whose faces and histories are painted on the city's walls. These murals capture Vernon's vibrant and multicultural history, connecting the past to the present. Tours last 45 to 60 minutes and are suitable for ages 12 and up. Comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended as the tours run rain or shine, beginning at the Vernon Museum. Pre-booking is required.
Plan Your Visit
The Vernon Museum welcomes visitors with admission by donation, allowing you to explore the rich history of the North Okanagan at your own pace. The suggested donation is $5 per person or $20 for families. For those looking to support the Museum further, an Insider Membership is available, offering exclusive benefits like monthly newsletters, unique invitations to exhibit openings, and discounts on archival services, tours, and at the Museum Store. Memberships range from $30 to $100 and help sustain the Museum's efforts to preserve and present the region's diverse history.
Conclusion
The Vernon Museum is more than just a collection of artifacts—it's a dynamic space where history, community, and education intersect. With exhibits that span local history, an extensive archive for research, and a variety of events that engage visitors of all ages, the Museum offers a rich experience for anyone interested in uncovering the stories of the North Okanagan. The Vernon Museum provides a meaningful journey into the past while continuing to support and foster the cultural fabric of the region.
