Bytown Museum

Montreal contractor, Thomas MacKay, began construction, in 1827, of the Commissariat building on the lower west side of the Rideau Canal lock system in Ottawa. As the canal was being built (between 1826 and 1832), under the supervision of Lieutenant-Colonel John By, the Commissariat was in use as an office, treasury, and storehouse. By 1854, the building was turned over to the government of Canada for use by the various departments devoted to the maintenance of the canal. In 1951, the Women’s Canadian Historical Society moved their “Bytown Museum” ( founded in 1917) from the former City Registry Office to the Commissariat building. Today, this three story structure is the oldest remaining stone structure in Ottawa.

Located within the Commissariat building alongside the Rideau Canal, the Baytown Museum explores the history of Bytown (now known as Ottawa).

Taken from the Rideau Street Bridge, this view shows the relationship of the Commussariat building to the Rideau Canal.

In addition to serving as an office and storehouse, the Commissariat also housed a treasury for the money to pay the soldiers ...

...as well as a powder magazine. The walls are three feet thick in order to withstand the blast of a canon ball if the United States were to invade Canada.

John Summers’ carpenter’s chest . He served as construction foreman on the canal for more than 50 years.

While visiting this museum, we happened upon a ceremony sponsored by “Tree Canada.” During their 25 year history of pursuing a greener, healthier environment, this organization has been responsible for the planting of 82 million trees. Originally named “The National Community Tree Foundation,” this not-for-profit organization provides resources and teaching expertise for planting trees throughout Canada. This was one of those unexpected and fun happenstances we’ve so frequently discussed.

Reminiscent of days gone by, the “Town Crier” announced the opening of the ceremony...

...which included speeches by many “VIPs”...

...and still more speeches...

...and finally the “ceremonial planting “ of the 82nd millionth tree.

After all the hoopla, the tree was able to get down to the business of growing.