The Arnprior & McNab/Braeside Archives (AMBA) and the Arnprior and District Museum are pleased to announce the opening on October 15 of a new joint exhibition celebrating the life and legacy of Charles Macnamara, one of Arnprior’s most remarkable citizen scientists.
Charles Macnamara: Citizen Scientist explores the work of a man whose curiosity and dedication to the natural world led him to become a respected researcher, photographer, entomologist and field naturalist. The exhibition highlights Macnamara’s contributions to the study of insects and the natural environment, as well as his passion for documenting the world around him.
Through photographs, archival materials and personal artifacts, visitors will discover the legacy of a local citizen whose scientific curiosity and contributions helped deepen our understanding of the natural world in the Ottawa Valley. The exhibition offers something for everyone, from curious kids discovering the natural world to adults interested in local history, science and the stories of the people who helped shape our community.
The public is invited to the Arnprior Museum, 35 Madawaska Street, for the official opening on Thursday, October 15 at 6pm. The evening will feature guest speakers Laurie Dougherty, volunteer curator; and Janis Hernandez, AMBA archivist.
“We are delighted to have worked with the Museum to bring this exhibition to life for the community to enjoy,” says Sara MacKenzie, Board President of the AMBA. “Bringing together material from our respective collections gives visitors a wonderful opportunity to see the breadth of Macnamara’s interests and to discover the story of a remarkable local citizen through the photographs, notebooks and other personal items donated by his family for long-term preservation.”
“Macnamara’s story shows how one person’s curiosity can lead to a lifetime of discovery,” adds Emily Stovel, Manager of Culture and Curator of the Arnprior Museum. “His careful observation and documentation of the natural world made an important contribution to the study of local insects and wildlife. We are pleased to share that story and introduce a new generation to his work in partnership with our community archives.”
Following the opening, the exhibit can be viewed during the Museum’s opening hours, Wednesday through Sunday, 10am to 4pm. You can learn even more about Charles Macnamara online by exploring AMBA’s virtual exhibition at adarchives.org.