Visit the Museum

Always free admission, drop by the museum at 1505 Bay Avenue in the Trail Riverfront Centre for a look into our collective past.

The Trail Museum & Archives strives to offer relevant programming to the community. We look to root all offerings in local and regional historical themes, but wish to be a safe, welcoming venue in which to discuss all issues and topics. Should you have a topic, activity, or idea for programming, we welcome your suggestions!

ONGOING PUBLIC PROGRAMS

Guided Museum Tours

Staff are happy to offer guided tours of all three galleries. Offering insightful tidbits on both the exhibits and the building, you will enjoy a delightful hour with those in the know. Tours are offered by donation with advanced notice, including number of participants and any areas of focus you desire. Great for class and family reunions, conferences, and professional development.

Guided Downtown & Mural Tours

Book for an informative walk & talk through downtown Trail, with stops at the many heritage murals and plaques around the city. Tours are offered by donation with advanced notice, including number of participants. Comfortable shoes, sunscreen, and water are all recommended.

Long-Term Care and Assisted Living Visits

Museum staff currently visit several long-term care and assisted living residences with monthly lectures and discussions. Are you interested in welcoming museum staff to your facility? Reach out to discuss your ideas.

Hot Stove League

Held the second Friday of every month in our Multipurpose Room, senior men are invited to join museum staff for lively facilitated discussions using archival records, photos, and film, reminisce about the past, and share ideas for the future. Coffee and treats are always provided. Sorry ladies, men only! Admission free.

SCHOOL PROGRAMS

Museum staff welcome hundreds of students from the district each year. With lighter activities, like scavenger hunts and searches, as well as modular programs and researched lectures for lengthier, in depth engagement, the museum is an ideal visit to all age groups. We can also come to you! Educators are encouraged to contact staff to discuss curriculum needs and ensure we make the most out of your experience.

LECTURES AND AUTHOR TALKS

Periodic author talks and lectures are hosted by the museum on topics of historic or contemporary relevance. Are you a local or regional author with a publication to promote or expert looking to share your learnings? Reach out to the museum to discuss an event.

ORAL HISTORY PROGRAM

The archives is currently conducting and recording oral histories of local residents. Provided free of charge, the program ensures we have a cross-section of life experiences in the collection for the future. Oral history is an extremely effective tool for expressing and understanding meaning. All interviewees receive a digital version of their interview and share copyright with the museum future use of and access to the interview. Connect with staff to plan your interview or that of a loved one.

The Trail Museum & Archives and the Trail Historical Society work collaboratively to actively grow the photograph, artifact, and textual collections. Owned exclusively by the Trail Historical Society, Trail Museum & Archives staff ensure potential donations meet collection criteria and standards for documentation and storage. To discuss a possible donation to the collections, please contact:

• Collections Coordinator at 250-364-0856 or collections@trail.ca
• Museum & Archives Manager at 250-364-0829 or museum@trail.ca

View our Collections Policy here: TMA_THS_COLLECTIONS_POLICY_Dec2024

We thank our donors and community for their continued generosity and trust.