Beaver River Museum marks 50 Years of preserving local history

DARRYL KNIGHT Local Journalism Initiative Reporter for The Standard

BROCK: Community history and heritage preservation were front and centre, at Brock Township Council’s meeting, on Monday, January 12th, as the Beaverton Thorah Eldon Historical Society presented plans for its upcoming 50th anniversary.

Society president, Paula Warder delivered the delegation, outlining the organization’s roots, milestones, and the vision for the future they see for the Beaver River Museum which has served as a repository of local history since its founding, in 1976.

“The Historical Society began with just nine volunteer directors, who shared a passion for preserving the stories and artifacts of Beaverton, Thorah, and Eldon,” Ms. Warder told council. “Fifty years later, that same spirit of volunteerism continues to keep our community’s history alive.”

Formed in October of 1976, the Beaverton Thorah Eldon Historical Society was established to encourage research into local history, promote public interest, and maintain a museum to house historical relics and artifacts. Over the decades, the museum has expanded to incorporate several historic structures, including: the William Brain brick home, built in 1884, opening to the public in 1981; a log house, added in 1982; and the historic Beaverton Stone Jail which began its move to the museum site in the mid-1990s.

Today, the Beaver River Museum is self-supported, through fundraising, donations, project grants, and newly introduced admission fees in 2025. That same year, the museum unveiled the Beaver River Railway Exhibit which highlights the role railways played in shaping the local community.

“Our collections are deeply personal,” Ms. Warder said. “They reflect the lives, work, and stories of the people who built this area. Every artifact has a story, and we want to make sure those stories are accessible to everyone.”

Looking ahead, the society shared plans, focused on sustainability, digital integration, and accessibility. Proposed initiatives, such as: improving physical access to buildings, wherever possible: offering virtual exploration, through QR codes; and creating an online, searchable database of the museum’s artifacts and archives.

Mayor Mike Jubb thanked the society for its long-standing contribution to the community and its commitment to preserving local heritage.

“The Beaver River Museum plays an important role in telling Brock Township’s story,” Mayor Jubb commented. “It’s a place where residents and visitors can connect with our past. Council appreciates the dedication of the volunteers who have sustained this museum for five decades.”

The society also asked council to continue its support, through existing lease agreements and park maintenance, to partner on accessibility improvements, (ie new washroom facilities,) and to recognize the role of community museums as an integral part of tourism and visitor development strategies.

Council was invited to take part in the society’s 50th anniversary celebrations which will be incorporated into annual events throughout 2026, including the Settler’s Day Celebration on August 1st.

“We would love to see council, residents, and visitors join us, as we celebrate 50 years of keeping our community history alive,” Ms. Warder added.

The Beaverton Thorah Eldon Historical Society officially marks 50 years of service, continuing its mission to preserve and share the stories which define the Beaverton, Thorah, and Eldon communities.