The Redpath Museum is a Victorian Natural History museum found at the centre of McGill University campus. The building was constructed in 1882 to house the fossil collections of John William Dawson, a professor of geology and Principal of McGill University between 1855 and 1893. Today, the Redpath serves both as a research institution for the University and as a public museum, offering educational programs and activities for visitors of all ages.
This listing was uploaded by Katie Miller, Heritage Analyst at the National Trust for Canada, on Wednesday July 2, 2025.
Please confirm details at the site’s own website before planning your visit. Are you the owner/operator of this historic place? Would you like to make changes to this listing? Please contact us at historicplacesday@nationaltrustcanada.ca
By Audrey Gray (Montreal)
The Redpath Museum is a Victorian Natural History museum found at the centre of McGill University campus. The building was constructed in 1882 to house the fossil collections of John William Dawson, a professor of geology and Principal of McGill University between 1855 and 1893. Today, the Redpath serves both as a research institution for the University and as a public museum, offering educational programs and activities for visitors of all ages.
I first became involved with the Redpath Museum during my first year at McGill, when I joined as a student volunteer. Volunteering activities involved providing informal tours of the Museum’s collections and assisting with youth outreach programming at local libraries and community centres. New to University life (and to the city of Montreal), the Redpath quickly became a place of learning, connection, and community.
A special recognition must be given to Ingrid Birker, who ran Redpath’s outreach during my time as a student volunteer. Her mentorship and generosity in including me in so many meaningful events and activities were a highlight of my undergraduate experience.
