Treasure Chest Museum

Treasure Chest Museum

Unlocking the stories of Arran-Elderslie's past. Join us for a tour!

407 Queen Street North  

Step back in time and tour the museum's unique collection of pioneer artifacts. Founded in 1985 by Norman and Ina Hagedorn, the museum began as a personal dream and gift to the community—sharing a lifetime collection to show how life was lived in years gone by. Norman officially opened the museum in the summer of 1995, and today his legacy lives on through the work of the Friends of the Treasure Chest Museum, a volunteer group dedicated to preserving and celebrating local history.

Treasure Chest Museum Kids Program – Summer 2025

The Treasure Chest Museum Kids Program invites children ages 6 to 11 to step into the past with hands-on crafts, games, and stories inspired by local history. Each Wednesday features a new theme such as farming, folklore, or pioneer life, designed to spark curiosity and creativity. Spaces are limited to 10 participants per day, so be sure to register early. Admission is by donation. 1:00 - 3:00 pm 

For more information contact tcmuseum@arran-elderslie.ca  519-353-7176

Weekly Themes

July 2: Farming & Agriculture Paint a barn plaque or build a mini scarecrow while exploring real tools farmers used long ago.

July 9: Pioneers & Homesteads Build a mini log cabin and try your hand at pioneer chores like shaking cream into real butter!

July 16: Local Myths & Folklore From spooky stories to legendary creatures, make a mask and bring old tales to life through storytelling and play.

July 23: Games of the Past Try out classic pioneer games like sack races, tug-of-war, and hoop rolling. Make a play passport and collect stamps as you go.

July 30: From Fibre to Fabric Explore how families used yarn, fabric, and thread to make everything by hand, then try it yourself with hands-on weaving.

August 6: Museum Mystery Hunt Can you crack the case? Follow clues and search the museum to solve a historical mystery. Prizes for the sharpest eyes!

August 13: Messages Through Time Send a secret message like they did in the past! Try message-in-a-bottle crafts, postcards, and time capsule fun.

August 20: Life 100 Years Ago Take a peek into the past with dress-up fun and vintage photo games. See what’s changed and what’s stayed the same.

August 27: Early Canadian Crafts Discover how early Canadians brightened their homes with handmade lanterns and experienced the hard work of wash day, when clothes were cleaned by hand.

Register Here

 Museum Hours of Operation