Welcome to the Museum
Are you a local or a visitor that is interested in learning more about Westport’s early history?
If you’re interested in Westport history, you may want to purchase copies of the Museum’s books of Westport. These books contain early photos of the village on every page, with historical information compiled from old newspaper articles and materials found in our
archives: Book One – 1800s to 1909 $20; Book Two – 1910 to 1930 $25; Book Three – The 1930s $25. These books are available at the Museum and Town Hall, or, if you live too far away to make a trip to the village, they can be ordered directly from the distributor (shipping charges apply) by clicking on the book cover to the right.
The Rideau District Museum is located at 29 Bedford Street in the Municipality of the Village of Westport.
The museum has many unique and interesting artifacts, including an original wooden dump cart used in the construction of the Rideau Canal between 1826-32. Other items of note include the doors of the hearse that carried the body of Canada’s first Prime Minister, Sir John A. Macdonald, through the streets of Kingston, Ontario.
“Sally Grant”, Statue of Justice 1844, is our most treasured artifact and is an imposing eleven feet tall. She was carved in 1844 from a single white cedar tree. Sally graced the roof of the County Court House in Brockville until 1956 when she had to be removed due to deterioration.
Sally Grant ~ Statue of Justice
Our museum claimed her in 1961. In 1978-9, the Canadian Conservation Institute did extensive reconstruction work on her. Now she stands proudly once again, commanding the attention of all who visit the Rideau District Museum.
The life and works of the people dating from the First Nations are reflected in the ingenious tools, gadgets, toys, clothing, documents, letters, and means of travel. Local businesses, industry, culture and entertainment are also well represented.
Location & Hours
29 Bedford Street
Phone – 613-273-2502
Saturday of May Long Weekend to June 30
Wednesday to Sunday – 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
July 1 to Labour Day Monday
Monday to Sunday – 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
After Labour Day to Thanksgiving Sunday Wednesday to Sunday – 9:30 to 4:30pm