The Canadian Museum Of History

 A few days before Christmas, I paid a visit to the Canadian Museum of History over in Gatineau. Formerly the Canadian Museum of Civilization, and with roots dating back to the 19th century, the Museum tells the story of Canadian history and regularly features special exhibits. It is one of seven national museums in the national capital area, and is a masterpiece of architecture, home to the collection since 1989. Douglas Cardinal, a renowned Canadian First Nations architect, designed the building, with its graceful curves influenced by his cultural background. Cardinal's work includes architecture across the country and in other parts of the world. My American readers may be familiar with his design of the National Museum of the American Indian in Washington. I have a membership that includes this one and the War Museum.

The Grand Hall is aptly named, a marvelous, large space within the exhibition wing. Totem poles and the reconstructed facades of Pacific Coast houses occupy this space.

Outside, a glimpse at the curatorial wing of the Museum.

One last shot for today. Ottawa can be seen across the cold Ottawa River on the far shoreline.