The Bytown Museum: A perfect place to begin your exploration of Ottawa, the Nation’s Capital.

Housed in Ottawa’s oldest stone structure, the Bytown Museum explores the city’s history from the early years of Rideau Canal construction, through the rough and tumble days of Bytown, to its emergence as Canada’s capital and beyond. Enjoy unique artifacts and exhibits year-round. To assist with a pleasurable visit, and included with admission, is a six-language audio guide available in English, French, German, Spanish, Mandarin and Japanese. Combine your visit with a lovely stroll along the locks and behind the Parliament Buildings, an oasis along the Ottawa River, all within steps of the Museum. You can also head to the adjacent Byward Market for your choice of any number of delightful restaurants and wonderful shopping. A well rounded visit to begin your stay!

Over One Hundred Years in the Making!

The Bytown Museum collection can trace it roots back to the drawing room of Mrs. Matilda Edgar on June 3, 1898. Mrs. Edgar hosted thirty-one Ottawa women who would found the Women’s Canadian Historical Society of Ottawa with Adeline Foster as its first president. Their goal was to “encourage the collection and preservation of Canadian historical records and relics.”

Today, the Bytown Museum builds upon the legacy of the WCHSO. The Museum’s mandate is to collect, preserve, study and make accessible the material and cultural heritage of the Ottawa region’s multicultural and diverse history. Through its important and eclectic collection the Museum strives to tell the stories of an evolving city – from its first inhabitants and the early days of Bytown to present-day Ottawa.