Artefacts
The Maritime Museum has a vast collection of 35,000 artefacts that have unique significance to the history of BC. It spans from 1775 to the present, predominantly from 1900 to 1985, and includes,
- Over 1,000 pieces of art
- Model ships of historic Naval vessels, Coast Guard vessels, as well as vessels from local companies such as the CP Steamship Co.
- Natural history pieces, such as a narwhal tusk
- A large uniform collection
- Items from local companies such as the CP Steamship Co. and BC Ferries
- Historic navigation tools
- Artefacts from local shipyards
- Lights from various vessels
- Flags and ship badges
- And so much more!
The Museum also currently has a fleet of three vessels: Tilikum, Trekka and Dorothy. Read about them here!
How do I donate to the Museum?
We are happy to consider donations of objects, photographs, archival material, and books that help us tell the story of British Columbia’s maritime culture and heritage. It is through the generous support of donors that we have been able to build a significant collection of artefacts that celebrate BC’s maritime past.
We are extremely thorough about adding to the collection and want to ensure that everything we collect is of high quality and fits within our mandate. If you have an artefact you would like to donate, please contact Jillan Valpy at jvalpy@mmbc.bc.ca. If you have archive and/ or library items to donate, please contact Brittany Vis, archives@mmbc.bc.ca. Have both or are unsure which category your item falls into? Contact us both!
Please note, the Museum will not accept donations that are brought to the Museum without an appointment.