Welcome to our digital collections!

Our online collections database provides access to select records from the Grimsby Museum collections. New records are added gradually on an ongoing basis.

To access our complete collection, please contact the museum to request a research appointment.

To request permission to use an image from our collection please contact the Grimsby Museum to discuss options.

Some historical records may contain outdated, offensive, or discriminatory language. These terms do not reflect the views of the Grimsby Museum. We are committed to maintaining accurate and respectful records. For concerns or questions about any content, please contact us at museum-public@grimsby.ca or 905-945-5292.

This initiative not only increases public accessibility but also supports the sharing of vital historical information—essential for developing accurate and well-rounded research.

We welcome feedback and hope this project will help fill research gaps and enhance the historical record.

Featured Collections

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 Hanley Ranch will return records associated with Hanley OR Ranch). 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. "Rocky Pine Ranch"). 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.