Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows are awash in heritage and culture, thanks to the efforts of local historical societies and the arts community. Because of these organizations, there are a number of places to view local artifacts and learn more about the pioneers who settled here more than 100 years ago, as well as catch a play, performance or art exhibit.
Pitt Meadows Museum
The community has stocked Pitt Meadows Museum with many heritage items. The museum, located in the old General Store, is located at 12294 Harris Rd. and is open during the summer from 1-4 p.m., Wednesday to Sunday.
Off-season hours are 1-4 p.m., Thursdays and Sundays. Admission is by donation.
Across the street from the museum is the Hoffmann Garage, 12277 Harris Rd. Inside the garage is Hans Hoffmann's old workshop and extensive collection of engines, as well as a blacksmith's shop. Summer hours are the same as Pitt Meadows Museum; during the off season it is only open Sundays from 1-4 p.m.
For group tours and research inquiries, phone 604-465-4322.
Haney House
The Haney family – Maple Ridge's most well-known pioneers and the namesake of the downtown area – donated this heritage home to the District of Maple Ridge in the 1970s, with the museum opening to the public in 1978.
Completed in 1878, it is furnished with household items, photographs, furniture and memorabilia from that and subsequent eras.
Find it at 11612 224th St. Haney House is open to the public Wednesdays and Sundays, 1-4 p.m. During July and August, Haney House is open Wednesday through Sunday from 1-4. Weekly heritage teas are held in summer.
Admission is $2 for adults and $1 for children and seniors.
Info: 604-463-1377.
Maple Ridge Museum
The museum is located in a well-maintained heritage home built in 1907 for the manager of the Haney Brick and Tile company. Learn how the community's pioneers dressed, cooked, worked and played.
The museum is stocked with furniture, household items, native artifacts, a miniature railway diorama and Canadian Pacific Railway caboose in the front yard. It also houses the community archives.
The museum is located at 22520 116th Ave., open Wednesdays and Sundays from 1-4 p.m. year-round, with extended summer hours.
Admission is $2 for adults and $1 for children and seniors.
Info: 604-463-5311.
Arts Centre and Theatre
The 43,000 square-foot arts centre, theatre and gallery opened in 2003 and features a regular line-up of local and touring performers.
Known as the ACT, the facility is located at Memorial Peace Park on 224th Street at 11944 Haney Place, between Lougheed Highway and Dewdney Trunk Road. Underground parking is accessible from 224th Street, Dewdney Trunk Road and Edge Street.
Monthly exhibits are featured at the art gallery, which is open Monday to Friday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
Admission is by donation. For more information, phone 604-467-5855 or visit www.mrag.ca.
For more on the ACT, phone 604-476-2787.