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Welcome to MDHS!

Welcome to the MDHS!

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.

The Merrickville Blockhouse Museum is located along the Rideau River -- a route used by many indigenous peoples.  Today it is part of  the unceded territory of the Algonquin Anishinabe people.

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Visit the Merrickville Blockhouse Museum

Upcoming Events

The Merrickville Blockhouse Museum will be opening for the summer 2023 season in late June 2023.

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

Upcoming News

View our Collection Online is Now live!

Click here to view our new online database!

Upcoming Events:

Public Presentations​ - 7:00 pm, Merrickville Legion

  • April 25, 2023 - Antiquing:  The Thrill of the Find

  • May 30, 2023 - Front Page Ottawa -- 1845 and Beyond

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