McDougall Mill Museum, located at 65 Arthur Avenue in Renfrew.
A controversial budget proposal in Renfrew is expected to face backlash when council meets on Tuesday night.
The Renfrew & District Historical & Museum Society will appear in front of council in protest of a suggestion to close the McDougall Mill Museum as part of cost-cutting in the 2025 budget and what society President Margaret Dubeau calls in a written statement to museum supporters an “underlying intention of possibly selling off [the] designated heritage building.”
She adds that it is “essential to preserve the story of Renfrew for future generations as it is invaluable and the collection is irreplaceable,” featuring over 10,000 artifacts donated by more than 1,000 donors who have entrusted the museum with their family heirloom as a way to preserve “the story of Renfrew.”
She encourages interested community members to join the society at the meeting and write to councillors about the importance of the museum, pointing out it is part of Renfrew’s unique identity alongside the swinging bridge, the thousands of volunteer hours that have shaped and encouraged local youth, and the social outreach it takes part in, especially with local seniors.
A petition through change.org is also being circulated by members of the Museum Society, reaching more than 70% of its goal over the course of two days.
(written by Kasey Egan)