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NEWS RELEASE
TOWN OF COLLINGWOOD
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Collingwood Museum staff invite you to visit the museum’s newest exhibit in honour of the inter-generational tradition of Collingwood’s ship-building industry on Monday, Feb. 21 between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
Launch Day focuses specifically on Collingwood’s most photographed and cherished event - the side launch.
The exhibit explores the history of shipbuilding in Collingwood, a century-long tradition that saw more than 200 steel ships plunge sideways into the harbour. Collingwood’s shipyard was one of the last to perform the traditional side launch in Canada. With a small and shallow harbour, side launching was a dramatic solution to this spatial challenge.
Visitors to the new exhibit will experience what it was like to watch, along with thousands of spectators, as five-storey-high steel vessels crashed into the water below. They will also learn about the stages of the launch and the unique stories behind some of Collingwood’s most notable ships.
The potential and realized dangers of shipbuilding are also explored through a small section of rope connected to one of the Collingwood Shipyards’ most devastating days, the launch of Tadoussac on May 29, 1969.
From shipbuilding tools and ship models to a stunning silk dress, this new exhibit has something of interest for everyone!
Advanced bookings are recommended by calling museum staff at 705-445-4811 Ext. 7211. Please note that Proof of Vaccination is required for indoor participation. Collingwood Trails maps will be available for those wishing to explore the Promenade Trail alongside the rectangular launching basin as well as the Shipbuilders’ Memorial on Heritage Drive.
Can’t make it on Family Day? Check the museum’s website for regular operating hours and we’ll see you soon!
The Collingwood Museum is located at 45 St. Paul Street. Please consult the Collingwood Museum’s website for up-to-date COVID-19 protocols.
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