Explore Summerland's Heritage at the Summerland Museum

The Summerland Museum isn't just a fallback for a rainy day; it's a collection of local history that vividly brings the past to life. This museum captures the essence of what made the Okanagan Valley a magnet for various cultures and pioneers over the centuries, from the native Okanagan peoples to miners, cattle drivers, and European settlers.

The Museum's Mission and History

Since its inception in 1965, the Summerland Museum and Archives Society (SMAS) has been dedicated to safeguarding the unique history of the Summerland District and its surroundings. The museum has evolved from humble beginnings when artifacts were stored in personal homes, to its first official premises in 1971. Today, it occupies a purpose-built structure since 1984, continuously expanding its collection and reach within the community.

The mission of SMAS is straightforward yet profound: to collect, preserve, research, interpret, and display objects that are historically significant to Summerland and its surrounding areas. This mission captures the history from pre-contact times, including Indigenous history, right up to the present day, making the museum a cornerstone of local heritage preservation.

Exhibits and Collections

One of the highlights of the museum is its diverse range of exhibits. Visitors can explore everything from an Indigineous hatband made from horsehair to Japanese masks made from fruitwood, artifacts that tell the stories of Summerland's founding families. A stunning fifty-foot mural provides a panoramic view of historical landscapes, while a model train illustrates an early depiction of the town, complete with a narrative on its volcanic origins.

In addition to these artifacts, the museum houses an impressive collection of documents, photographs, maps, and objects that have played pivotal roles in the region's history. These items are meticulously preserved, offering insights into the daily lives, trades, and artistic expressions of the area's past residents.

Art and Legacy

The art collection at the Summerland Museum, significantly enhanced by a donation from Doreen Tait in 2006, includes over one hundred pieces ranging from photographs to oil paintings, all crafted by local artists. This collection not only enriches the museum's cultural offerings but also connects visitors with the region's artistic heritage through works by notable figures such as Irvine Adams and Marjorie Croil.

Visit the Museum

Visit the Summerland Museum & Archives at 9521 Wharton Street, Summerland BC, V0H 1Z0, open from Wednesday to Sunday, 10 AM to 4 PM, and by appointment on Tuesdays. Admission is free, though donations are welcome. The museum is accessible, featuring a ramp and automatic doors, and offers gender-neutral washrooms (note: no change table available). Service animals are allowed, and the setting is typically quiet with dim lighting, though the model railway exhibit does feature interactive sounds. Note that no food or drink is permitted inside. To get here by car, exit Hwy 97 onto Prairie Valley Road, continue to the roundabout, and proceed straight onto Wharton Street; the museum is on your left with parking past the Art Gallery. B.C. Transit also services the area with a bus stop right in front of the museum.

The Summerland Museum and Archives Society continues to be a dynamic part of the community, inviting residents and visitors alike to learn about the rich tapestry of the area’s history. Whether you're a history buff, art enthusiast, or just curious about the Okanagan Valley's past, the museum offers a compelling glimpse into the stories that have shaped this vibrant community.