Redpath Museum

In 1882, a magnificent gift graced Montreal: the Redpath Museum. Peter Redpath, a prominent sugar baron, commissioned this architectural gem to commemorate the 25th anniversary of Sir John William Dawson’s tenure as McGill University’s principal. The Redpath Museum stands proudly on Sherbrooke Street West, a testament to Victorian Classicism and the Greek Revival style, a unique blend in North America. It holds the distinction of being Canada’s oldest building purpose-built as a museum. The Redpath Museum isn’t just a beautiful building; it’s a treasure trove of natural history. Inside its walls, you’ll find an eclectic mix of artifacts spanning ethnology, biology, paleontology, and mineralogy/geology. These collections trace their origins back to some of the same individuals who founded the Smithsonian and Royal Ontario Museum. Imagine standing amongst dinosaur skeletons, gazing at a Gorgosaurus in the central evolution exhibit. Explore the diverse mineral collections, each bearing the initials of its prominent donor, from Dr. Donald Doell’s collection to the Shirley Collection, donated by the wife of Sir Hugh Graham. The Redpath Museum also houses fascinating ethnological artifacts from around the globe, with a focus on Africa, ancient Egypt, Oceania, Paleolithic Europe, and South America. While the First Nations artifacts that were once part of the museum’s collection have found a new home in the nearby McCord Museum, the Redpath’s global reach remains impressive. Did you know that the Redpath Museum’s collections have even made their way onto the silver screen? Both the interior and exterior of the building have served as sets for movies and commercials, adding another layer to the museum’s rich history. So, as you stand before the Redpath Museum, take a moment to appreciate the convergence of history, science, and art within its walls. It’s more than just a museum. It’s a journey through time, a testament to human curiosity, and a celebration of the natural world.