Permanent Exhibits:
The Eva Brook Donly Museum
Erected in the mid-1840's, in the elegant Georgian style, the Museum building was first the home of Simcoe merchant and postmaster, Thomas J. Mulkins. When he died in 1856 , his son Henry Mulkins continued to live in the house and also succeeded his father as postmaster, living here until his death in 1917. The two story brick structure is little changed from its original exterior appearance in front and sides. Inside, rooms have been somewhat altered, particularly upstairs where there were originally six bedrooms and additional fireplaces. Parlours, a dining room, a pantry, halls and a bedroom are furnished with many handsome Norfolk County antiques in an 1860's setting. Outside, a backyard kitchen garden includes flowers, vegetables and herbs.
Eva Brook Donly
Mrs. Eva Brook Donly was Norfolk County's most talented local artist, studying and painting in Ontario, Mexico and elsewhere. She and her husband purchased the building in 1924, and she willed it to the Town of Simcoe when she died in 1941. Some 80 of her paintings, along with many choice antiques were left behind as well. The Norfolk Historical Society moved its extensive collections of relics and antiques into the building at that time also.
"Glorious Old Norfolk"
"Glorious Old Norfolk" showcases 300 years of old Norfolk County History in the large 1967 Centennial Gallery. From the 1669-70 wintering site of French explorers on through pioneer settlements and 19th century craftsmen, the two dozen exhibits highlight the most exciting and the most significant eras in Norfolk's story. Displays take you from prehistoric relics of the Neutral Indians down through 20th century inventions and nostalgia. Special features include the 1790's cabin of Dr. John Troyer, "the witch doctor of Norfolk", and a collection of locally carved decoys in a Long Point punt. Pioneer, Victorian and early 20th century exhibits display hundreds of interesting relics of old Norfolk County.
Special Museum Features
- Paintings of historic Norfolk County scenes and pioneers
by W. Edgar Cantelon - Dr. Troyer exhibit - "The Witch Doctor of Norfolk County"
- Van Norman Foundry Ironwares
- Abigail Becker, "The Heroine of Long Point"
- Historic Mulkins home with 1860's decor
- Eva Brook Donly Paintings
- 100 year old bicycle
