Merrickville and District Historical Society is a volunteer-run organization based in the Village of Merrickville-Wolford, a beautiful historic village spanning the Rideau Canal, one hour south of the Nation's capital. MDHS encourages interest in the history and heritage of Merrickville-Wolford. MDHS also operates the seasonal museum at the Merrickville Blockhouse National Historic Site of Canada.

Tucked away on the Rideau Canal, a UNESCO World Heritage site, the Merrickville Blockhouse was built in 1832 as a defensive structure designed to protect British North America from American invasion. By the time of its completion the threat of invasion had passed and the Blockhouse was converted into a home for the lockmaster. In 1939 the Merrickville Blockhouse was recognized as a National Historic Site of Canada. MDHS was instrumental in preserving this building in the 1960's and has operated the Merrickville Blockhouse Museum since 1967.

Visit the Merrickville Blockhouse Museum

The Merrickville Blockhouse Museum has closed for the 2022 season.

For tours or more information about visiting the Blockhouse Museum, please email info@merrickvillehistory.org

View our Collection Online is Now live!

Click here to view our new online database!

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Upcoming Events:

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September 27, 2022:

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Join us on Tuesday, September 27 at 7:00 pm at the Merrickville Legion for a presentation by Alison Price on McGuigan Cemetery:  Analysis of the Stones.  Learn about the moss-covered and cracked headstones on the grounds of Merrickville-Wolford's abandoned cemetery -- one of the oldest in Eastern Ontario with graves dating back to 1806.  The lecture will explore the meanings and iconography of the stones at the cemetery, allowing for a deeper understanding of the lives of those who are buried there.

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Next Public Presentation Dates for 2022​​

• October 25

• November 29

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