January 19, 2012 ─ Housed in a 19th century British fort on Saint-Helen’s Island, Montréal’s Stewart Museum buzzes with interesting visitor activities, inside and out! There’s always something to discover thanks to five centuries of historical landmarks and stories, as well as some 500 artefacts, images, archival documents and early maps that recall the presence and influence of European civilizations in New France and North America. Come winter, the Stewart Museum offers two exceptional ways step back in time to enjoy popular outdoor pursuits of yesteryear: a guided tour of the Military Complex of St. Helen’s Island on snowshoes and old-fashioned curling.
Snowshoe Tour
Partake in a lively walkabout of the Military Complex of St. Helen’s Island, once the arms depot of the Montréal Military District and of Upper Canada (until 1870). Built in 1824 upon the orders of the Duke of Wellington, these fortifications are comprised of a number of buildings, including an arsenal, workshops, a guardhouse, small and large powder magazine and barracks. A costumed guide will share informational tidbits and interesting stories as you tour the facilities on snowshoe. Tours run from January to March and include an unguided visit of the History and Memory exhibition. Snowshoes are provided.
Outdoor Curling
Running January to March from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m., grab a broom and step into the hack for a favourite pastime of Montréal Scots – curling! The museum provides the ice, brooms, irons and even a costumed guide – just get a minimum of 8 players (two teams of four) together and put your iron on the button to win! What’s more, when it’s time to warm up, a guided tour of artefacts related to Scottish culture in the Memory section of the exhibition is included in your activity. So Sweeeeep! Hurry Hard! And above all, don’t lose your kilt!
