New Westminster

Strong in tradition - Committed to service

New Westminster Museum and Archives presents
The 1865 Irving House

Located in the heart of the "Royal City", Irving House is one of the oldest community heritage sites in the province. Step back to the 1800's as you enter the colonial home of Captain William Irving, the “King of the Fraser River”. With 14 furnished rooms to view and enjoy, Irving House is a must see for everyone interested in New Westminster’s past.

A Very Victorian Christmas
at Irving House
December 12, 13, 19 & 20
Click HERE for details

LOCATION
302 Royal Avenue
New Westminster, BC, V3L 1H7
Directions to the Museum, click here

CONTACT US
Colin Stevens, Manager
Cynthia Bronaugh, Tour Group Coordinator & Office Assistant
Phone: 604-527-4640
Fax: 604-527-4641

HOURS
May - August ~ Wednesday to Sunday, 12:00 - 5:00 pm
September - April ~ Saturday and Sunday, 12:00 - 4:00 pm

Plan a Day Trip to The 1865 Irving House
Irving House guided group tours & School Group Details

IRVING HOUSE
Relive History… Over 140 years of memories live within Irving House "…the handsomest, the best and most home-like house of which British Columbia can yet boast..." was how Irving House was described in the British Columbian newspaper in April 1865.

Irving House visitors have the opportunity to revisit the splendour and grace of those early pioneer days. Irving House is a must see for everyone interested in the Victorian period, heritage architecture or colonial British Columbia. During your visit you will admire the ornate ceiling plasterwork, the glow of original wallpaper and the elaborate fireplaces. You can easily imagine the festivities and celebrations that took place in the parlour and formal dining room. Let our costumed Guides help you step back in time at the historic Irving House!

Irving House Photo Gallery

Take a Virtual Tour of Irving House

Our gift shop is stocked with items to please all shoppers. Victorian themed items, history books, old time toys, miniature China pieces and souvenirs of British Columbia .

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES
Your community needs you! If you have a few hours a week to spare and enjoy people and history, The 1865 Irving House has a job for you.

Join the volunteers at the New Westminster Museum and Archives, make new friends, use your skills and knowledge and contribute to your community. Here are some ways you can volunteer:

  • Present guided tours of Irving House
  • Help with heritage demonstrations at special events
  • Help researchers find information in the archives
  • Assist us to create and sew historic costumes
  • Teach children and adults heritage crafts
  • Assist with the preservation of museum artifacts
  • Present musical performances in Irving House

Wanted! A Few Good Volunteers!

Are you addicted to the History Channel? Do you enjoy working with the public? Are you keen to learn more about New Westminster ’s past? If so, the New Westminster Archives wants you to help take care of the Royal City ’s documentary heritage! Help researchers with enquiries, perform conservation on old documents, and assist with archival descriptions! For more information, see links below or call Rob McCullough at 604-515-3842.

Other Heritage Information Sources:

New Westminster Museum Samson V Maritime Museum
New Westminster Archives The Museum of the Royal Westminster Regiment
New Westminster Public Library New Westminster Police Museum
City of New Westminster Fraser River Discovery Centre
Canadian Lacrosse Hall of Fame The Royal Engineers and Associates Living History Group
The History of Irvington Neighbourhood
(Portland, Oregon, USA)