Small-town museums are treasure troves of information that help connect people to a local place. They provide an opportunity to preserve a community’s heritage and, often, the families who pioneered it. One such museum is a local jewel that brings to life the history of Parksville and its surrounding areas.
Wander through a quaint collection of heritage buildings, each one steeped in Parksville's rich history. From charming cottages to rustic barns, every corner tells a story waiting to be discovered. Immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of bygone eras as you explore interactive exhibits that bring the past to life.
The Parksville Museum
How often have you driven by the grounds near the Parksville Visitor Centre on the Island Highway and not stopped to take a look? I am guilty of this very thing far too many times to count. However, last week, I finally took the time to explore Craig Heritage Park (Parksville Museum) and discovered just how engaging it really is.
The Parksville Museum showcases local artifacts, photographs, documents and preserved historical buildings to view and explore. And the information provided is as equally important to us locals as it is to out-of-town guests.
A Bit of Parksville History
The Parksville & District Historical Society was established in 1976 as the District 69 Historical Society. In 1983, the Society opened Craig Heritage Park (the museum grounds).
The Knox United Church, built in 1912, was the first heritage building moved to the Park. Today, the Park is home to the Englishman River building, which houses the main museum archives and nine other historical outbuildings.
Top 5 Reasons to Visit the Parksville Museum
The Parksville Museum offers a captivating journey through the community's history. Here are the top five reasons to visit.
- Heritage Buildings: Explore various heritage buildings equipped with historic treasures to help immerse yourself in bygone eras.
- Historical Insight: Gain insight into the rich history of Parksville and envision life in earlier times.
- Top Rated Attraction: Rated as one of the top attractions in Parksville, the museum is a must-visit for history enthusiasts.
- Visitor Experience: This family-friendly and interactive museum is great for all ages.
- Community: The museum often has onsite community events that enhance the experience.
The Buildings and History of Parksville
Along with the array of historical artifacts in the main building, the museum's heritage buildings give us a glimpse into the life of early Parksville settlers. I love how each building tells its own story through the thoughtful placement of artifacts.
Craig Cottage & Cabin
The two onsite heritage buildings built by James Craig in 1930 were originally part of Craig's on the Sea Auto Camp. The camp operated from the 1930s to the 1980s with two types of accommodations: the cabins and the cottages to house visiting travellers.
The Craig Cabin is now home to the Oceanside Model Rail Roaders, showcasing model replicas of the local railways.
The Post Offices
There are two heritage post offices on site. Craig’s Crossing Post Office opened in 1914 and was used until 1935. However, the French Creek Post Office is even older, operating from 1888 until 1912. This unique building served several local communities, including Lasqueti Island.
Knox Heritage Church
The E & N Railway expanded the town of Parksville in the early 1900s. As typical of all small towns, a church was built. The Knox Heritage Church opened its doors in 1918 and is still a venue for many weddings. It is important to note that the stained glass windows at the back of the church are the originals.
The Fire Hall
The fire hall was built in 1943 by local volunteers in response to the threat of air raids during WWII. The 1950 Ford Pumper Firetruck on display at the museum appears yearly in the Parksville Canada Day parade, much to the delight of onlookers.
School House
In operation from 1909 until 1920, this building was converted into a school for the children who lived between Craig's Crossing and Nanoose Bay. The schoolhouse was originally a surveyor's cabin during the construction of the E&N Railway. It was later moved to the farm of James Craig to operate as a school in 1909. The heritage building showcases some of the original school desks and the school bell.
McMillan House
The oldest heritage building at the museum is the McMillan House. The home was originally built in 1885 in Errington for Duncan McMillan, one of the first Europeans to claim a plot of land in the area. At the time, the small house was considered a mansion.
Family-Friendly Museum
The great thing about small museums is that they are usually very kid-friendly. This is definitely the case for the Parksville Museum. What is often behind glass at more sophisticated locations, almost everything at this museum is out in the open to touch, feel and explore. (Please follow the posted guidelines if asked not to touch something).
Allow your kids to sit at the school desks used in the early 1900s. Or, while exploring the McMillan House, let them see how small the beds were in the late 1800s. (My kids got a kick out of this fact.)
The museum offers special events throughout the year, including markets, musical performances, and kid-friendly activities. You can stay current on these local events by visiting their Facebook page.
It's truly a fun place to visit for a relaxed and informal education of the history of Parksville and surrounding areas. The Parksville Museum is a low-key attraction that is definitely worth a stop!
Even More Parksville History
While at the museum, I was thrilled to purchase a book about the history of Parksville. Written by Marjorie Leffler, Parksville & then some, captures the historical stories of local families and how they influenced and shaped the town we all know and love today.
This book would interest anyone associated with Parksville and its surrounding areas (Nanoose Bay, Errington, and Coombs). And, of course, anyone interested in history in general, especially as it relates to Vancouver Island.
Museum Entry Fee and Hours
Admission is by donation, with a suggested fee of $5.00 per person or $10 per group or family.
The museum is typically open Thursdays – Sundays for select periods. Before going, please check their website for current hours of operation.
The Parksville Museum is located at 1245 Island Hwy East. (You park in the same parking lot as the Parksville Visitor Centre).
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More Vancouver Island History
Do you love learning about the history of Vancouver Island in a fun way? Then check out these other fascinating spots.
- BC Forest Discovery Centre
- Coal Harbour Museum
- A Guide to Victoria's Chinatown
- Top 5 Historic Sites in Victoria
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Another great attraction on Vancouver Island! I’ve only visited the Nanaimo museums and reviewed them, but will consider this museum on my next trip. Nanaimo was a great cruise ship stop for anyone leaving from Vancouver, BC.
We’re trying to find out more about our great Uncle who disappeared in the 60’s. He was a retired, bachelor farmer who cashed his OA S cheque at the bank and was never seen again. He was on his bike. Any news would be appreciated.
I was wondering if youor anyone else might be able to help us . We’re looking for information on the Feary/Stewart family of Errington Arrived here in 1870 Maybe earlier.The family members were the Post Master s from 1913? till 1967. Please feel free to call . we are trying to find anything about the family photos exetra.This is our family.My number is local. 613 883 4752
Hi Carole, you may want to contact the museum itself to see if they have any further information. I have a book here, entitled, Parksville & then some (which I purchased at the museum), and it briefly mentions a “Mrs. Feary”. A quote from the book reads “An experimental farm was started, specializing in small fruits. This in turn led to a jam factory which was operated by Mrs. Feary…” That’s the only mention of her, and I can’t find anything about the Stewart family. Best of luck in your search!