Torbay History House
Torbay History House
In 2017, the Town of Torbay purchased the Roman Catholic Presbytery House in an effort to create a museum that meets both professional standards and community needs. Today, the Torbay History House serves as a community and heritage space encouraging visitors to learn more about the community and its significant history!
Photograph Donations
Donate old photographs of Torbay’s people, buildings, events, and everyday community life.
Oral History Project
Share your memories and help preserve Torbay’s stories for future generations.
Become a Volunteer
Help with exhibits, programs, events, and behind-the-scenes museum projects.
Programs & Events
Exhibits
Treasures by Douglas Woodford
“Treasures” is an art exhibit by local artist Douglas Woodford. An artist reception will take place on June 13, from 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. at Torbay History House Second Floor Art Gallery. Visitors are invited to meet Douglas and enjoy an excellent performance by Charla Woodford.
Workshops & Demonstrations
Grounds Café Hookers Rug Hooking
The Grounds Café Hookers will be out on the front porch again if the weather cooperates, hooking rugs and welcoming any questions or admiration you would like to provide.
Art Appreciation 50+
Community Art Program
Torbay History House is happy to welcome adults 50+ to nurture their creativity in our Community Room. We have all sorts of craft materials available, from acrylics to watercolours, pastels and more, so this is a free space to bring your ideas to life!
There will be an instructor once a month in June, July, and August. Otherwise, this is an opportunity to explore and create on your own.
Indigenous Creator Jackie Shannahan
The first Art Appreciation 50+ special instructor will be Indigenous Creator Jackie Shannahan!
Watercolour with Heather Coughlan
Local artist Heather Coughlan will be instructing a watercolour class in July!
Indigenous Creator Jackie Shannahan
The last Art Appreciation 50+ special instructor will be Indigenous Creator Jackie Shannahan!
Music on the Deck Summer Series
Join us on Wednesday evenings for some music on the Torbay History House stage!
Mayor’s Garden Party
Join Torbay Mayor Craig Scott for some light refreshments and yard games on the grounds of Torbay History House! Come ready to have fun—there will be something for all ages!
Our Big Summer Book Swap
Torbay History House is excited to be hosting our fourth big book swap! This is a free event where you can bring books you’d like to donate or just come to browse!
Throwback Summer Sessions
Torbay History House is excited to bring back our week-long Creative Minds sessions this summer! In the spirit of bringing back something old, we’ve dedicated the entire week to iconic throwback activities, from making duct tape wallets to woven friendship bracelets, paper mâché, and more. 80s, 90s, and early 2000s, here we come!
Please note that some activities will get messy, and, if the weather permits, we intend to spend plenty of time outside. Parents and guardians are asked to ensure their children arrive dressed for a mess. While this is not a classroom, rules are still in place. Torbay History House is a very old building, and all participants must treat it with care and respect.
Permanent Exhibits
GERALDINE PELLEGRINETTI GALLERY
Torbay in the World
Torbay in the World is dedicated in loving memory of our first curator, Jerri Pellegrinetti.
Exploration & Discovery
Torbay at War
Torbay & the Sea
Torbay in Confederation
Living Traditions
Torbay Folk Art Gallery
Explore Torbay's rich folk art traditions through handcrafted works, music, storytelling, and unique local collections.
Torbay in Song & Story
The Harry Sullivan Collection
MAIN FOYER
Additional Displays
Discover featured exhibits highlighting the people, stories, and artistic heritage that continue to shape our community.
Any Mummer's 'Lowed In?
Explore our extensive exhibition of mummerabilia from the Paul Smith Collection.
Torbay Arts & Culture Hall of Fame
The Torbay Arts & Culture Hall of Fame celebrates the achievements and contributions of residents who enrich our community through their art, music, and craft.
Visit Us
Address
2 Convent Lane
Torbay, NL A1K 1B5
Hours
Monday – Saturday
9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Admission by Donation
Contact
(709) 437-6532 ext. 270
museum@torbay.ca
Our Staff
Donna Norvey
CONTACT:
709-437-6532 ext.263
dnorvey@torbay.ca
INTERESTS:
Collections management, genealogy, culinary studies and food history.
Hannah Cooper
CONTACT:
709-437-6532 ext.270
hcooper@torbay.ca
INTERESTS:
Paleography, epigraphy, transcription and genealogy.
Derrick Dymond
CONTACT:
t. 709-437-6532 ext.270
e. ddymond@torbay.ca
INTERESTS:
Newfoundland traditional music, storytelling and cultural tourism.
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