The MacNaught History Centre & Archives

Plan a visit to the MacNaught History Centre & Archives and unlock a rich collection of documents, records, and stories that bring Prince Edward Island’s past to life.

Located at 75 Spring Street, the MacNaught History Centre & Archives sits at the heart of Summerside’s heritage community and serves as a gateway to discovering family connections and Island ancestors. Open year-round to residents and visitors, the Centre offers extensive genealogy resources supported by friendly, knowledgeable staff ready to assist with your research.

Visitors can explore PEI newspapers on microfilm, transcribed census and gravestone records, and a wide range of historical documents. The facility features comfortable reading and microfilm rooms, along with a reference library of published and unpublished community histories and genealogies—all available free of charge.

Staff are also happy to introduce researchers to the PEI Ancestry website, managed by Wyatt Heritage Properties. Annual memberships are available and provide access to a variety of online databases to further enhance your research. Visit www.peiancestry.com to learn more.

In addition to archival research, the MacNaught History Centre includes a small exhibit space showcasing notable artifacts, including a gold pocket watch once owned by Sir John A. Macdonald, historical paintings and sketches by Summerside artist John Gothard Baker, and an 1867 tintype of Loyalist descendant Peter Schurman, displayed alongside the distinctive cane featured in the photograph.

Whether you’re tracing your family roots or exploring Island history, the MacNaught History Centre & Archives offers a meaningful and engaging journey into the past.