The Prince Edward Island (PEI) Museum and Heritage Foundation is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the island’s rich history, culture, and heritage. It operates seven museum sites across the province, each highlighting different aspects of PEI’s past, from early settlement and shipbuilding to natural history and coastal life.
Overview of the PEI Museum and Heritage Foundation
Established in 1970, the PEI Museum and Heritage Foundation plays a key role in preserving and interpreting the island’s history through exhibitions, artifacts, and educational programs. The foundation manages multiple museum sites, each offering unique insights into PEI’s past.
Museum Sites & Attractions
1. Beaconsfield Historic House (Charlottetown)
- A beautifully preserved Victorian-era mansion built in 1877.
- Showcases elegant architecture, period furnishings, and historical exhibits.
- Offers guided tours and hosts cultural events.
2. Orwell Corner Historic Village (Orwell)
- A living history museum that recreates rural life in the 1890s.
- Features a blacksmith shop, general store, schoolhouse, and working farm.
- Visitors can experience traditional crafts, farm animals, and historical reenactments.
3. Basin Head Fisheries Museum (Basin Head)
- Focuses on PEI’s fishing heritage, particularly the local Irish Moss industry.
- Located near Basin Head Beach, famous for its “singing sands.”
- Features exhibits on traditional fishing techniques and coastal life.
4. Acadian Museum (Miscouche)
- Explores the history and culture of the Acadian people in PEI.
- Displays artifacts, photographs, and stories from the Acadian community.
- Offers exhibits on Acadian traditions, resilience, and contributions to the island.
5. Elmira Railway Museum (Elmira)
- Highlights the history of PEI’s railway system, which operated from 1875 to 1989.
- Features a restored train station, railway artifacts, and a miniature train ride.
- Great for families and train enthusiasts.
6. Green Park Shipbuilding Museum & Yeo House (Port Hill)
- Showcases PEI’s shipbuilding industry in the 19th century.
- Includes the elegant Yeo House, home of a wealthy shipbuilding family.
- Features ship models, tools, and maritime history exhibits.
7. Eptek Art & Culture Centre (Summerside)
- Focuses on PEI’s artistic and cultural heritage.
- Hosts rotating art exhibits, historical displays, and craft demonstrations.
- A great place to explore local and regional art and history.
Activities & Programs
- Guided Tours – Available at most sites, offering deeper insights into PEI’s history.
- Heritage Events & Workshops – Seasonal activities like blacksmithing demos, traditional music nights, and storytelling sessions.
- Educational Programs – School programs and interactive exhibits for students and history lovers.
Best Time to Visit
- Summer & Early Fall (June to October) – Most museum sites are open during these months with full programming.
- Winter (Limited Access) – Some sites remain open for special events and private tours.
