MUSEUMS, GALLERIES AND HISTORICAL WALKS
W Thank you Cowichan Valley for another wonderful season! We will be back in the Spring to serve our amazing community. Lots of love
e are blessed here in Cowichan with many artists, galleries, museums and historical walks. 1.Hand of Man Museum of Natural History is located in the old Maple Bay School in Maple Bay is truly a must see for all. The museum is open daily and it is free to take a self guided tour but donations are welcome. There are iPads available to help you navigate the museum. Ancient tools, woven masterpieces, hand crated artifacts and an amazing collection of sea and shell collection with so much more. 2. E.J. Hughes Art Gallery located at 115 Kenneth Street in Duncan has a wonderful selection of artwork on display. Well known artist E.J. Hughes was a shy man living in a modest home here in Duncan. Visit the gallery and you will be inspired by his vision of life near the sea. 3. Cowichan Valley Museum sitting proudly amongst the Totem Poles is a gem for our downtown core. The Cowichan Historical Society owns and operates this museum and has a wonderful collection of times past. Do plan a visit and you will be pleasantly surprised with this small museum. Do take the time to do a self guided Totem tour of downtown as well as a visit to China Town Alley at 149 Station Street. There is so much to see and do while you are downtown. 4. The Cowichan Valley Arts Council runs two
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galleries at the Cowichan Community Centre as well as a studio space. The galleries showcase works of professional and emerging artists. They hold new art shows monthly as well as workshops and talks. 5. Shawnigan Lake Museum located at 1775 ShawniganMill Bay Road offers knowledgeable guides with information about the Kinsol Trestle and features an Old Time Theatre as well as interactive exhibits and is child friendly. 6.Cowichan Bay Maritime Centre in Cowichan Bay has a wonderful display of local and maritime artifacts. Classic wooden boats and canoes as well as model ships. There is also a unique children boat building booth. Fun for everyone! 7. Ladysmith has an amazing history and offers a walking tour of artifacts that highlight the history of coal, mining, forestry, rail and marine. Stop by Cowichan Regional Visitor Centre and we will give you a guide for you to follow as you take yourself on tour of downtown Ladysmith and then the Railway District and onto the Waterfront District. Hours may vary with each venue. Please check ahead to not be disappointed.
Patty Abbott, Visitor Centre Coordinators
