Halton Region's Heritage Services to Shut Down, Threatening 35,000 Valuable Artifacts

Strategic Insights -

The recent decision by Halton Regional Council to cease delivering heritage services and deaccession its collection of 35,000 artifacts has sparked concerns among historians and museum experts. The decision will see the closure of the Halton Region Museum, which will remain open until January 1, and the transfer of artifacts to a local institution or region. Historians are warning that this move may lead to the loss of valuable historical records and the failure to reconnect these items with the public in a meaningful and respectful way.

Key Takeaways:

  • Halton Regional Council voted to cease delivering heritage services by the end of the year and deaccession its collection of 35,000 artifacts, including photos, archival materials, and objects.
  • The decision was made due to the passage of Bill 23, which shifted land use planning responsibilities from the Region to local municipalities, including heritage services.
  • The artifacts are currently held in an archive and former museum in Milton, Ont., and will be deaccessioned in a process that will take place "well beyond" January 1.
  • Local historian John McDonald expressed shock at the decision, noting that there was money set aside for a new heritage centre, and that the deaccessioning of artifacts will hinder future local history projects.
  • Historian Alison Drummond emphasized the importance of offering residents easily accessible information about the history of their community, creating a sense of community and understanding of Canadian identity.
  • History professor Michelle Hamilton criticized the lack of public consultation, stating that museums are already overburdened, understaffed, and underfunded, and cannot take on additional artifacts.

Statistics:

  • 35,000: The number of artifacts that will be deaccessioned.
  • 3,100: The number of photos in the collection.
  • 13,000: The number of archival materials in the collection.
  • 18,400: The number of objects in the collection, including natural artifacts, Indigenous artifacts, farming equipment, artwork, furniture, and clothing.
  • 2022: The year in which Bill 23 was passed by the Ontario government.
  • 2031: The target year for the Ontario government to build 1.5 million new homes.
  • 2021: The year in which Halton Regional Council endorsed a five-year operational plan that dedicated $8 million for a new museum facility.
  • $8 million: The amount dedicated for a new museum facility in the 2021 operational plan.

Sources:

  • Byline: CASSIDY McMACKON; THE CANADIAN PRESS
  • Halton Region spokesperson Isabel Contin
  • Halton Region staff report to council
  • Local historian John McDonald
  • Alison Drummond, executive director of the Ontario Museum Association
  • Michelle Hamilton, history professor at Western University in London, Ont.