By Saeed Akhtar, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Tilbury Times Reporter
The Ridge House Museum opened for the 2025 summer season on June 1, offering visitors a chance to step back into 1875 and take part in two milestone celebrations: Ridgetown’s 150th anniversary and the museum’s 50th.
This year’s featured exhibition, Making the Map: The Settlers of Ridgetown, explores the stories of four founding families — William and Sarah Marsh, James and Sophia Watson, Edmund and Mary Mitton, and Ebenezer and Jane Colby — who were granted the original 100-acre lots that would become the town.
“The exhibition showcases original artifacts, including two of the original land grants,” said Lydia Burggraaf, curator of the Ridge House Museum. “Visitors learn about these families’ experiences clearing the land and building the community. A firsthand account of Ridgetown in 1875 reveals how quickly the area transformed within a few decades.”
Guided tours of the historic home highlight what middle-class life looked like in the late 19th century. Many furnishings and artifacts were donated by local families, churches, and service clubs. “Unlike many heritage houses that focus on prominent individuals, Ridge House portrays a more general middle-class experience,” Burggraaf said.
In the Discovery Den — a play-based learning space for all ages — visitors can join in the museum’s birthday celebration with themed toys and drop-in activities. “The birthday party theme includes a cake sensory bin, a play kitchen, a tea party set and more,” Burggraaf said. The museum also offers Creative Kids workshops and other family programming throughout the summer.
Outside, the Pollinator Patch offers a peaceful garden experience, featuring a mix of native plants and heritage flowers planted in partnership with the Ridgetown and District Horticultural Society. “The society created the garden plan, secured sponsors, produced a brochure and continues to maintain the space,” Burggraaf said. “It provides meaningful learning opportunities and enhances the museum grounds.”
On select dates — July 19 and 20, and Aug. 16 and 17 — the museum will close to host Escape the Ridge House: Happy Birthday Ridgetown, an immersive escape room experience. “We introduced the escape room after a successful trial at Milner Heritage House,” Burggraaf said. “Participants solve puzzles, crack ciphers and find clues in a fun, themed setting.” Registration is available online.
The Ridge House Museum is open to drop-in visitors from June 1 to Aug. 31, Wednesday through Sunday. Admission is by donation. For details, visit chatham-kent.ca/ridgehouse or follow @CKMunicipalMuseums on social media.
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