From its ancient creation to modern day protection, the Oak Ridges Moraine continues to impact Uxbridge Township. Covering approximately 45% of the township, this massive natural enigma has endured several transformations... healthy ancient forest, to settlers' cleared farm fields... erosion and desert-like blow sands to large-scale reforestation... developers' dream to government protection. Through it all, this enduring landmark has had people at its very centre.
Native peoples who used its waterways and resources - early settlers who worked diligently to clear the woodland and did not realize the rich soil would not last - sawyers and lumbermen whose businesses flourished for 10 decades until the timber ran out - farmers who watched their crops fail as the soil died, eroded and turned to blow sand - concerned citizens who lobbied relentlessly for an organized reforestation effort - workers who planted thousands of tiny seedlings - hikers who now walk the resulting new forests - businesspeople who see prime locations for development - concerned citizens fighting to protect this fragile new ecosystem...
This permanent display chronicles the development of the Oak Ridges Moraine in Uxbridge Township.
Regular museum admission rates apply to all displays.
Ms. Montgomery, a native of Prince Edward Island, is famous for the book, Anne of Green Gables, the Avonlea and Emily stories and other books. In 1911, she moved to Ontario where she lived with her husband, Rev. Ewan Macdonald. Her most productive years were spent in the manse at nearby Leaskdale, Ontario, from 1911 - 1926.
For more information about L.M. Montgomery please visit the Lucy Maud Montgomery Leaksdale Manse Museum website.
The musical roots of the late pianist, Glenn Gould, are in the Uxbridge area where his parents and grandparents lived. A unique collection of photos depicts him as a child and young man.
The Canadian artist David Milne lived and painted in Uxbridge in the 1940's, and the museum display provides a glimpse into his Uxbridge years. He is represented in the McMichael Collection at Kleinburg, Ontario.
Thomas Foster, a millionaire, was mayor of Toronto from 1925-27. In 1935-36, he built a Byzantine memorial "temple" just north of Uxbridge. This display outlines his life and depicts the beautiful and unique building which he left us.
This display outlines some of the history of Quakerism, and features the Uxbridge Quaker (Friends) pioneer settlement.
The museum maintains eight heritage buildings and two replica buildings. Many artifacts are on display within the buildings, while others are preserved in storage. Some of our extensive collection includes:
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