The Maidstone Bicentennial Museum is located on the historic Puce River where the first Municipal Town Hall was built in 1875. A fire in 1914 destroyed the original structure which lead to the present day structure being built. It remained the town hall until 1964. On October 16th 1984, the Maidstone & Area Historical Society was founded and the museum was created. We have welcomed visitors from all over the world ever since!
Maidstone Bicentennial Museum is a community non-for-profit, museum which houses unique collections of artifacts that have been donated by the community or purchased by the Maidstone and Area Historical Society. This collection includes an impressive WW1 Naval and Army collection, artifacts of pioneers Joseph, Daniel and Zoe Ouellette, Rum Running, the War of 1812, including the Aboriginal Contribution to the War of 1812 and much more.
The museum grounds are certified Habitat Friendly by the Canadian Wildlife Federation and are also home to beautiful Native Heritage Gardens, a collection of over 50 species of plants, trees, and shrubs that are native to the Essex County area. These gardens in the past have served several purposes from food, medicinal medicines and dying of cloth. Additionally, they play an important part in the life cycle of butterflies. Several of the trees are rare or endangered including Paw Paw, Kentucky Coffee, and Cucumber trees.
The society has also developed an array of interesting family and children’s programs and events, both historical and conservational. These programs and events consist of a hands-on, educational, interactive approach to see history come alive, many programs are available in both English and French. Dressing up is always encouraged! Some activities include The annual War of 1812 Encampment, Bee Day, Butterfly Day, Blacksmith Day, Old Fashion Game Day, Pioneer Life and Pirate Day. And don’t forget the Jr. Historical Society which runs September – May.