Welcome to our Online Collections Database!
The Collingwood Museum cares for a diverse collection of objects and photographs, including those items collected and preserved by Collingwood’s first museum, the Huron Institute. Since 1904, dedicated volunteers and staff have worked to preserve local history through the collection of more than 5,000 objects as well as an impressive archival collection that boasts more than 3,000 photographs.
Making these items available through an online platform has been a longstanding objective that we continue to work towards. New records will be added on a regular basis. Much work has been invested to ensure that records and terminology meet current standards. If you notice outdated, or inappropriate terminology, please contact us at your earliest convenience. These records are works in progress and will be updated as additional information becomes available.
Available online collections presently include: Collingwood Terminals, Historic Residences, Huron Institute Historical Catalogue, Hurontario Street.
Tips for Searching
Keyword Search
The Keyword Search button allows you to perform a general search across multiple fields for any catalog records online. Keyword searches use OR as the default connector between words (e.g. a search for Hurontario Street will return records associated with Hurontario OR Street). If you want to find records where both keywords are found, type in AND between the two words. To search for a specific phrase, be sure to put the phrase within quotes (e.g. "Hurontario Street"). You can also use the asterisk (*) as a wildcard (e.g. a search for histor* would come up with records containing history, histories, historical, etc.). Searches are not case sensitive.
Advanced Search
The Advanced Search button can help you be more specific with your search. You can search for a word or phrase within a particular search category or use multiple categories to further narrow down your search results. For example, searching White in the People field will bring up any records associated with a member of the White family, without having to sift through black & white photographs. You can also search People and Creator records through Advanced Search. Phrase searching with quotes and use of wildcards (*) are available in Advanced Search.
Random Images
The Random Images button is a great way to just browse the collection. Each Random Images page displays a random assortment of images from the records online. If something piques your interest, click the thumbnail to view a larger version of the image.
Catalog Searches (Archives / Photos / Libraries / Objects)
The catalog buttons can also help narrow down your search, by only searching with a selected catalog. If you only want to search for Photos, click the Photos button and type in your keyword(s) or phrase. You can also browse records within that catalog without performing a search. Phrase searching, wildcards (*) as well as AND/OR statements are available when performing catalog searches.