Written By Olena Riznyk
LUCAN – For three decades, the Lucan Area Heritage and Donnelly Museum has been at the heart of preserving and sharing the stories that shaped the community.
“We have worked hard to expand over the years to keep preserving and showing local Lucan history,” said museum manager and curator Thomas Levesque. “The marquee name is, of course, the Donnellys. It was a big event that happened in our community, and there is still so much interest in their story.”
The museum houses significant collections, including artifacts from the Donnelly family such as William Donnelly’s engraved pocket watch and a shawl that belonged to Johanna Donnelly. Items from the Ray Fazakas collection, gathered through decades of research, ensure that documents and relics tied to the tragedy were saved “from the dustbin of history,” Thomas explained.
But the Donnellys are only part of the story. Exhibits also highlight the early Black settlement of Wilberforce Colony, Irish immigration in the 19th century, and Lucan’s sporting past. One of the most remarkable moments came in 1952, when the Montreal Canadiens brought hockey legends Maurice “Rocket” Richard and Doug Harvey to town for an exhibition game against the local senior team.
Beyond its exhibits, the museum offers a variety of programs designed to engage the community. “We try to make history something people can experience, not just read about,” Thomas said. Each month, residents gather for monthly bingo nights that support the museum’s operations. October is a particularly popular time, when guided paranormal investigations and themed bus tours invite visitors to explore the mysteries of the Donnelly story after dark. Families can also take part in seasonal open houses, community celebrations, and anniversary events with games, food, and special exhibits.
The museum also looks to the future with innovative projects. A new virtual reality tour of the Donnelly homestead is in development, allowing guests to step into the 1880s through a 360-degree headset experience. “It’s a way to connect younger audiences with history using technology they are excited about,” Thomas noted.
Though Thomas is the only full-time employee, he credits the “dedicated core of volunteers” who have kept the Heritage Society thriving for 30 years. “We are always happy to welcome new people, whether you love history, woodworking, or even social media,” he said. The museum’s motto – “Remembering Our Past to Establish Our Future” – remains its guiding vision as it continues to honour Lucan-Biddulph’s diverse and complex heritage, while inviting future generations to explore and share in the story.
