Feed your curiosity with a visit to the International Fox Museum and Hall of Fame. This small, one-room museum presents an insight into the fox ranching industry that was headquartered in Summerside between 1900 and 1980. Fox ranching had a similar effect on the economy of Prince Edward Island as the late19th-century Gold Rush had on Canada’s Klondike region. The International Fox Museum and Hall of Fame is housed in the Summerside Armoury building, which also includes space for rotating art exhibitions.
Through original artifacts and true stories the museum retells the history of the silver black fox and its importance to the livelihood of many island residents via original artifacts and true stories. Learn about the industry’s rise, prestige and rapid decline. Browse photographs of fox-rearing pens, award-winning breeders and famous clients including Queen Elizabeth II. See examples of fur fashion trends, from coats and hats to scarfs.
Chat with knowledgeable guides while they narrate real-life stories about the island’s fox farmers and fashion designers. Hear about the opposition to the industry from animal rights activists and learn why fur fashion faded in popularity after World War II.
After your tour of the museum, climb to the building’s second floor to find Gallery 33. It provides a space for rotating expositions of visual arts by both new and recognized national artists.
Find the museum in Summerside’s historic downtown. Free parking is available for limited hours on the surrounding streets. The museum is within easy reach of other major city attractions. Just a 10-minute walk away is Summerside Harbour, home to the Eptek Art and Culture Centre, Harbourfront Theatre and Spinnakers Landing marketplace. Stroll along the waterfront boardwalk or explore the harbor’s shore via rented kayak.
Visit the International Fox Museum and Hall of Fame from Monday to Saturday in July and August. Between September and June, call for an appointment. Admission is free, although donations are welcome. The same opening hours apply for Gallery 33.