Oakville Museum at Erchless Estate

8 Navy Street, Oakville, Ontario L6J 2Y5 [map]
Telephone: 905-338-4400
Email: oakvillemuseum@oakville.ca
Website: www.oakville.ca/museum/index.html

Directions

From Highway 403 West, take Exit 117 and merge onto Kerr Street. Turn left onto Lakeshore Road West. Turn right onto Navy Street. Please visit the museum website for more detailed directions.

Hours

1 to 4:30 p.m., Tuesday to Sunday; Also open most holiday Mondays

Description

The Oakville Museum, on the four-acre Erchless Estate, includes the historic home of Oakville's founding family, the 1856 Custom House, outbuildings and beautiful grounds and gardens.

The Oakville Museum at Erchless Estate is the permanent home of The Underground Railroad: Next Stop, Freedom – an innovative multimedia presentation that celebrates the heritage of Black Canadians in our community (created by Parks Canada in partnership with the Ontario Black History Society and the Royal Ontario Museum).

In 1834, the town became an official port of entry into Canada. Ships arrived from all over the Great Lakes and beyond, and many freedom seekers were assisted by ships' captains to stow away in their vessels. The story of Oakville's role in the Underground Railroad is told in a new permanent gallery.

Currently, the Black history exhibit is not wheelchair accessible. The main floor of the museum, however, which includes period room settings and changing exhibitions, is accessible. There is a gift shop with a variety of books, artwork and pioneer toys.