School Programming

Welcome teachers and students!

Step into the Story!

Looking for a trip back in time? Join us at the Kilby Historic Site.
A range of year-round On-Site and In-Class programs will complement your curriculum and create an unforgettable classroom adventure. Led by a costumed educator, British Columbia’s early rural history is brought to life as students immerse themselves in hands-on learning. On-site programs provide a unique opportunity for classes to explore an original General Store, lively farm, and heritage orchard. In-Class programs bring history to you through engaging and fun learning experiences.

Minimum charge, 20 students. Teachers, no charge. One chaperone free per 5 students.

Junior Merchants | K – 4  

$11 plus GST per student (90 minutes)


Step into an original 1906 General Store and Hotel to uncover the role it played in early communities. Students will become junior merchants and help fill a grocery order. Hands-on learning at its best!

Harrison Homesteaders | gr. 4-6 

$15 plus GST per student (3 hours)

Experience a day in the life of a homesteading child. Step into the role of a child from 1906 where there is always work to be done. From tin piercing to biscuit shaping and butter churning, these hands-on activities will illustrate the challenges in the everyday lives of children living in Harrison Mills. Classes are encouraged to dress up in period clothing.

Guided Tour | All grades

$11 plus GST per student (90 minutes)

Bring your curriculum to life. These 90 minute guided tours are customized to align with your learning objectives and to provide your students with the most meaningful experiences. Tour focus can include farm animal care, flooding and dykes, and fun group building activities.

Add-on Experiences

$4 plus GST per student (each class must choose the same activity)
 Ice Cream Making (April to June) | 45 minutes

Students have a first-hand experience at making ice cream the old-fashioned way! This fun and interactive demonstration allows students to learn by instruction & participation. The reward for their hard work is a sample of their freshly churned ice cream.

Butter Making (Year-Round) | 45 minutes

Using an original butter churn, all hands are needed to turn heavy cream into delicious butter. Fresh bread and self-made butter complete this program.

Apple Cider Pressing (September to October) | 45 minutes

Students try their hand at turning apples into juice using our century-old Apple Press. Stories and samples are the rewards for their hard work.

Can’t make it to our Site? Let us bring history to YOU!

In-Class programming: Coming in 2025!

Timeless Fun and Games | gr. 1-6 

$8/student plus GST (90 minutes)

Toys and games have been used for centuries to educate and entertain. Students rotate through activity centres experimenting with optical illusions, gravity toys, and table-top games. Students will make or colour their own take-home toy.
Additional help is required.

Kilby Historic Site facilities include

Picnic tables on the grounds which are great for having your own brown bag lunch. The museum is within walking distance of Kilby Park on the Harrison River. Some school groups choose this area to have lunch or enjoy a walk to the beach. A third option is to have lunch indoors, in the Orientation Barn, should you experience inclement weather during your visit. The Kilby Cafe can always provide hotdogs, popcorn, fresh sandwiches, muffins, soft drinks and assorted juices.

We look forward to booking your class tour!

A collection of British Columbia Heritage resources useful to teachers, students, and history enthusiasts of any age. Our Digital Collection can be found at A Visit to the General Store.

Contact us!


    Contact:
    Kilby Historic Site
    215 Kilby Road, Box #55,
    Harrison Mills, BC
    V0M 1L0
    Phone: 604-796-9576 Ext 101
    Fax: 604-796-9592
    Email: info@kilby.ca