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Shipwrights by Improbable Escapes

Shipwrights by Improbable Escapes​An immersive ‘escape room’ experience with nautical-themed puzzles and challenges. Suitable for groups of 2-6 people.

Special Events

There’s always something new on the horizon. Discover our upcoming events, spread the word, and mark your calendar.

Children &
Youth (Age 5-13)

Programs to ignite curiosity and provide opportunity for exploration! Delivered virtually or in-person, these group programs can be adapted for ages 5-13.

Nautical
Nights

The Nautical Nights Speaker Series, in partnership with Kingston Yacht Club (KYC), has become an annual tradition at the Great Lakes Museum.

Lifelong
Learning

Life-long learning is a journey of continuous growth and development, enriching our lives with new knowledge and perspectives. Immerse yourself in the history of the Great Lakes!

About the
Collection

Archives and artefacts. A library collection covering all aspects of Canadian shipping and marine heritage. Photographs, shipping company collections and shipbuilding and design collections.

Ship Lists

A selection of unique registers of ships and individuals that were compiled to facilitate the research process.

Ways of Giving

Donate your time. Donate your money. Become a member. Leave a gift in your will. There are many ways to support the museum and we appreciate your interest in supporting the Great Lakes Museum!

The Story of the Great Lakes Museum

‘Know the Ropes’ – Museum News & Stories

Explore the rich maritime history of the Great Lakes, read the stories of our artefacts, find out interesting information to share at your next party! Know the Ropes shares a mix of museum news and interesting stories.

Lifelong Learning

(Programs for Adults)

Learning the History of Where We Live

Here at the Museum, we never stop learning. We know our community is interested and invested in learning about our local history. To meet those wishes, we have designed two programs that discuss the local economic, social and environmental history of the islands and the mainland.

Our adult programs are great for retirement homes, community centres, and anyone interested in learning. These programs are designed to be 60 minutes in duration and are $8/person. We will provide all the materials, so all you need to do is provide the location! Check out our programs below for more information.

Lifelong Learning - Island Life: The Making of a Community

Island Life: The Making of a Community

Duration: 60 minutes | $3/person

In this program, the Marine Museum will take community members back to the 19th century to Garden Island when this small island experienced an unprecedented population and economic boom thanks to Calvin & Co. Shipbuilding Company. Global economic forces of timber trade and shipbuilding largely influenced the development of this region. How did people respond to the subsequent opportunities and challenges? Find out in this presentation!

Lifelong Learning - Maritime History of Kingston

Maritime History of Kingston

Duration: 60 minutes | $3/person

Kingston is at the convergence of three major waterways that have been the main travel routes of this region for tens of thousands of years. Therefore, the maritime history of Kingston is rich with cultural diversity, social change, and economic opportunities as well as challenges. In this program, the Marine Museum will provide a brief overview of the histories of human’s relationships with the Great Lakes and waterways. Starting with Indigenous histories and ending with a glimpse to our future.