The former Sifton-Cook Heritage Centre held its opening in Cobourg for the summer season on May 18, 2024.
Another special occasion that was celebrated was the museum’s 25th anniversary.
On hand were a number of dignitaries honouring the occasion.
Cobourg Museum President Mary Dunphy welcomed everyone and read a land acknowledgement.
Town Crier Mandy Robinson began the festivities following by Alderville First Nation Chief Taynar Simpson unveiled the wording to explain the significance of the Pine tree in a painting donated to the museum by Alderville First Nation artist Rick Beaver.
A flag was raised during the opening ceremonies with the new logo/name of the museum called the Cobourg and Area Museum.
Col (ret’d) Andy Cook CD unveiled the new name of the barracks, now called the Sifton-Cook Exhibition Hall.
Cook’s father David Cook and Doug Sifton who formed the Cobourg Museum Foundation to rescue the building before it completely collapsed and was demolished.
The land on which the museum stands was once owned by James Calcutt, an Irishman who immigrated to Canada in 1832 and built a brewery to successfully meet the needs of people from Cobourg.
It’s unknown whether he build the barracks or just took it over from the local military.
Hours for the museum are May, June, September and October – Saturdays and holiday Mondays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sundays from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.
July and August from Wednesday to Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sundays from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. and Holiday Mondays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Author: Pete Fisher
Has been a photojournalist for over 30-years and have been honoured to win numerous awards for photography and writing over the years. Best selling author for the book Highway of Heroes - True Patriot Love
