Originally published in TEACH Magazine, November/December 2017 Issue
Military museums offer fun and engaging ways for students to learn about the work and role of our nation’s armed forces. They also promote better understanding of Canada’s rich military heritage and the conflicts that have shaped our country. Here’s a roundup of some noteworthy places to visit.
Canadian War Museum
Ottawa, ON
Home to one of the world’s finest holdings of military artifacts, the Canadian War Museum chronicles Canada’s involvement in major world and regional conflicts throughout history. The museum’s vast collection comprises more than three million items, ranging from rare vehicles, uniforms, medals, artillery, personal memoirs, and works of art to sound and visual recordings. There are a wide range of learning programs for students of all levels, designed to complement school curriculum in the areas of social studies, history, and geography.
Comox Air Force Museum
Lazo, BC
Comox Air Force Museum showcases the heritage of the Royal Canadian Air Force’s 19 Wing, celebrating the achievements and legacy of West Coast military aviation. Located in the Comox Valley on Vancouver Island, the museum documents the exploits of BC’s airmen from the beginnings of Canadian airpower in the First World War until the present day. The museum also boasts an outdoor Heritage Air Park, featuring a collection of aircraft that have flown at 19 Wing Comox.
The Military Museums
Calgary, AB
The Military Museums are the largest tri-service museums in Western Canada. Visitors can explore eight distinct museums and galleries, including the Naval, Army, and Air Force Museums of Alberta, four regimental museums, and a public art and exhibition space known as the Founder’s Gallery. The Military Museums offers a variety of curriculum-based educational programs, activities, and tours to school groups. Special education packages are also available.
Musée Royal 22e Régiment
Québec City, QC
Located at the Citadelle of Québec, The Musée Royal 22e Régiment sits within a national historic site that harbours the largest military fortification in Canada. It is one of biggest military collections in the country. Spanning over 300 years, the museum traces the history of the Citadelle since the French regime, as well as the Royal 22e Régiment, the only French infantry regiment of the Canadian Forces. Admission includes a guided tour around the Citadelle. Educational workshops are available for primary and secondary school groups.
Royal Canadian Artillery Museum
Shilo, MB
The award-winning Royal Canadian Artillery Museum is Canada’s National Artillery Museum, dedicated to presenting the stories of the Canadian Gunners and their contributions to war and peace since 1855. It houses Canada’s largest collection of artillery artifacts with over 65,000 items on display, including an extensive collection of firearms and weapons dating back to the 1700s. The museum comprises five major galleries encompassing numerous interactive exhibits and audio presentations, and even features an outdoor Gun Park displaying more than 30 artillery pieces and vehicles.
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