Inside Hamilton's Museums

A new book that illuminates Hamilton’s top heritage museums and historic sites.

With a celebration of Hamilton’s history and an emphasis on storytelling, Inside Hamilton’s Museums is for native Hamiltonians and newcomers alike. Amidst increased interest in Hamilton from the GTHA and beyond, this book explores the city’s origins, with an emphasis on its historic sites, early builders, and personalities. Learn about the history of the site, take a guided walk-through, and discover some of the most prized possessions.

Find out about the McQueston family, and how the two high-backed chairs at Whitehern evoke the day in 1939 when King George VI and Queen Elizabeth opened the Queen Elizabeth Way, the first intercity divided highway in North America. Or visit the museum that occupies the site of the battle that marked a turning point in the War of 1812, holding off the American invaders for at least another winter. These and many more Hamilton sites await your visit.

John Goddard is an author, magazine writer, and former Toronto Star reporter with a specialty in exploring little-known Ontario wonders. His books includeInside the Museums and Rock and Roll Toronto, with pop critic Richard Crouse, a cheeky guide to the city’s rock-and-roll historic sites. He lives in Toronto.