The Muse - Lake of the Woods Museum & Douglas Family Art Centre — Attraction in Kenora

My Great grandparents came over from England, docked in Montreal and then made their way to Kenora where they built a log home on the Minaki, Kenora district. My grandfather was also a war veteran who fought in both ww1 and ww2. My mom was born and raised in Kenora. Her Mom: Constance Kenora Lodge was the first white baby born in the Kenora district: thus her name. I went to the museum with high expectations to see the “pioneers of Kenora”. Although the displays they did have were absolutely amazing, I was disappointed that there was not more heritage of Kenora and the pioneers behind it that paved the way. There was nothing of the beautiful Lakeside Baptist Church that was built in 1897, where my parents were married, that is rich in history of Kenora and its first settlers. These things are huge historic monumental heritage markers for future generations to see and hold dear. Nothing of the old Keewatin School that was SADLY torn down. I was shocked when I found out such a beautiful historic building had been torn down. These are the things that make up the rich history of Kenora district. These things should be preserved and never forgotten. Although it’s nice to have novelty items in the little shop there, there weren’t even a single post card, cup or anything that said Kenora, Ontario. And what of the old town clock?? These things are being lost and not appreciated and it’s so...

Beautiful museum, the displays of artifacts and information about them were incredible! Especially specific to Kenora Lake of the Woods. I would have LOVED to have seen more of the heritage of Kenora, Although all the quilts are extremely beautiful and the talent involved, I wanted so bad to see a wall dedicated to the old town hall and clock, a wall designated to the beautiful old Lake Side Baptist Church on Sixth St S. Photos of the original beautiful architecture of the crafted inside. These are just examples of what needs to be preserved as historical sties so future generations are able to go back in time and experience feel and see the beauty of Kenora Lake of the Woods and its priceless history! Also would LOVE to see replicas for purchase for souvenirs such as small Five Roses flour bags, a replica of the tower from Kenora Mill, artwork or photographs for purchase of such historic monuments. So important to preserve these treasures for future generations! There can never be enough!! I did truly enjoy the Kenora...

Very well laid-out for a regional museum, with a permanent exhibit collection that more than adequately tells the story of Kenora, and the towns which amalgamated to create Kenora. Each summer when we visit there is always an incredibly well curated seasonal exhibit that expands on the local story with particular focus (we've seen Residential Schools, Jingle Dresses, Cartography, Float Planes--the list goes on)--and those seasonal exhibits are well worth the return visit. Well-informed staff who are ready to answer question, and an excellent paper guide can help you experience even more from the permanent collection. The museum also offers a scavenger hunt for children of reading age which we all enjoyed. New--and right next door--is an impressively designed gallery with the same thoughtful permanent collection and seasonal exhibit programme as the main museum. I would say it's a great rainy day excursion--but I never feel regret spending an hour at The Muse, even on a sunny day! It's a must-stop for us...