Ribbon Cutting - July 26, 2025
In the 1980's the Board of Directors for the museum had a vision of creating a bigger space to hold the history of Shawnigan Lake. Unfortunately, their ideas didn't manifest into anything at the time, but they did plant a seed that was nurtured by two generous donations of $100,000 from local families.
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These two donations paired with a passionate Board of Directors launched Project Impact into the making. Now with over $3 million raised and construction completed, the reopening ceremony was held on July 26, 2025.
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Project Impact
After over 41 years of operating from the old Firehall, which was generously sold to the Shawnigan Lake Historical Society for $1, the museum has outgrown the space. This hampers the Museum's ability to provide programming and service to the community.
The expansion added roughly 4000 sq. ft., and seamlessly connect
to the current building - the original Firehall.
The need for more space at the museum is not only to house artifacts and create better exhibits; it's also about creating more spaces for our community to gather.
This project has many benefits to our region including:
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Attract more cultural tourism to the region
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Create volunteer, summer student, and employment opportunities
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Space to engage visitors through community outreach with events and speakers
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Improve visitor experience
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Added community spaces, including a group meeting space, kitchen, and outdoor gathering space
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An increased gift shop area
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Larger E.J. Hughes Gallery
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Increased community and school programming, as well as, a new entrance that will allow groups to assemble safely, and under shelter, rather than on the road allowance.
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Two public washrooms for the village that will be accessible from Elsie Miles Park
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A much-needed transfusion of energy for the Village of Shawnigan Lake, and a museum that will continue to flourish as a heritage attraction/destination
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And many more!