ABOUT THE EXHIBITION

Many people think the Canadian Museum of Civilization was born in 1989, when its beautiful buildings were opened in Hull (Gatineau). Not so. In 2006, we are actually celebrating our 150th anniversary.

Since its modest beginnings within the Geological Survey of Canada, the Museum has expanded considerably. Its role now is to tell the stories of human history and identity in Canada, serving as a cultural link with the world, by using modern museum methods for collecting, preserving, research and education.

This exhibition invites you to discover key events in the Museum’s history, and to celebrate its major contributions.

HOW IT ALL BEGAN

Sir William Logan was the first director of the Geological Survey of Canada. He helped survey the Province of Canada and led major studies of its mineral resources. As an administrator, he worked tirelessly to expand the Geological Survey until he retired in 1869.

The Survey’s published reports, and its topographic and geological maps, were vitally important to the development of Canada. The Geological Survey’s museum and its role in international exhibitions also promoted the country’s resources and manufactured goods, gaining wide support from the public and the government.