McCord Museum

McCord Museum

Former name
Established	1921
Dissolved
Location	Montreal, Quebec, Canada
Coordinates
Type	History museum
Accreditation

The McCord Museum (French: Musée McCord) is a public research and teaching museum dedicated to the preservation, study, and appreciation of Canadian history. Located in Montreal, Quebec, the museum is renowned for its extensive collection of artifacts, photographs, and documents that reflect the social history and material culture of Canada, with a particular emphasis on the history of Montreal.

History

The McCord Museum was founded in 1921 by David Ross McCord, a Montreal lawyer and philanthropist. McCord was passionate about Canadian history and began collecting artifacts in the late 19th century. His collection grew to include over 15,000 objects, which he donated to McGill University, leading to the establishment of the museum. The museum was initially housed in the McGill University Library before moving to its current location on Sherbrooke Street in 1971.

Collections

The McCord Museum's collections are divided into several key areas:

Costume and Textiles

The museum holds one of the most significant collections of costume and textiles in Canada, with over 20,000 items. This includes clothing, accessories, and textiles from the 18th century to the present, reflecting the diverse cultural heritage of Canada.

Photography

The photography collection contains over 1.3 million images, including works by notable photographers such as William Notman. The collection documents the social and cultural history of Canada from the 19th century onwards.

Indigenous Cultures

The museum has a significant collection of Indigenous artifacts, including clothing, tools, and art from various First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities. This collection is crucial for understanding the diverse cultures and histories of Indigenous peoples in Canada.

Decorative Arts

The decorative arts collection includes furniture, ceramics, glass, and metalwork, showcasing the craftsmanship and design trends in Canada from the 18th century to the present.

Archives

The McCord Museum's archives contain manuscripts, maps, and other documents that provide insight into the historical development of Canada, particularly Montreal.

Exhibitions and Programs

The McCord Museum hosts a variety of temporary and permanent exhibitions that explore different aspects of Canadian history and culture. The museum also offers educational programs, workshops, and lectures aimed at engaging the public and fostering a deeper understanding of Canada's past.

Research and Publications

As a research institution, the McCord Museum supports scholarly research and publishes works related to its collections and exhibitions. The museum collaborates with academic institutions and researchers to advance the study of Canadian history.

Also see

• Montreal Museum of Fine Arts
• Canadian Museum of History
• Royal Ontario Museum
• Musée de la civilisation

References

• Official website of the McCord Museum
• "McCord Museum." Encyclopædia Britannica. Accessed October 2023.