Our Story
The journey of the Ross Museum began in 1985, when Bill and Iva Oates, along with a group of community members, set out to transform their dream of a local museum into realty. After years of careful planning, securing the perfect location, and curating a collection of artifacts, the Ross Museum proudly opened its doors to the public on July 1, 1996.
The establishment of the Ross Museum was made possible by the generous donation of land from Roy and Bette Ann Dittburner. The “Ross House”, a replica of an early 1800’s log home was gifted by Jack and Janice McLaren.
Today, we take immense pride in our expansion to five buildings, each housing a unique part of our collection.
The Museum is entirely staffed by volunteers who are committed to preserving and promoting the rich history of our community.
Our Charter Members (1985): Lawrie Barton, President | Norma Bennett, Vice President | Helen Bennett, Corresponding Secretary | Hazel Hawthorn, Treasurer | Dorothy Jack, Recording Secretary | Iva Oates, Archivist | Bill Oates | Joanne Pratt | Rene Rose | George Wallace | Evelyn Moore Price, Honorary Member.
In 1996 our team included Catherine Beach, Archivist | Dixie Dittburner, Curator Manager | Clare Stoppa, Curator.
Over the years, our presidents have included Lawrie Barton, Norma Bennett, George Wallace, Douglas Patterson, Mabel Weller, Murray Dittburner, Hazel Hawthorn, Lola Byce, Barbara MacWha, Simon Tunley, Beth Wilson, Mac Coughlin, Evelyn St. Amour, Beatty Pilgrim and Janis Tomkinson.