Construction is Approaching: Help Us Complete the Mine Experience!
We have raised $5.2M of our goal. Join the community effort to bridge the final gap as we break ground this spring!
February 2026 Update: We are in the final stretch of fundraising for the Mine Experience. With designs complete, exhibition design in its final stages, and a building permit application going in by early March, construction mobilization is planned for early spring 2026.
Rossland’s history was built underground. Now, we’re bringing that story to life.
We are creating an immersive Mine Experience and renewing all of our exhibits. We are in the final phase of fundraising and inviting our community and supporters to help bring this transformational project to life.
This is more than a renovation! It’s a critical infrastructure investment:
Modern fire suppression
Hazmat abatement
Enhanced water and electrical systems for long-term sustainability
Site drainage and parking area improvements to meet provincial and municipal codes
Monthly contributions are one of the most powerful ways individuals can help bring the project to completion.
Preliminary Exhibition Sketches:
Carol Vanelli-Worosz from Teck presenting the second of two $350,000 donations from Teck Metals - Trail Operations to Rossland Museum & Discovery Centre, represented by Museum Director Joelle Hodgins and Rossland Historical Museum Association President Libby Martin (2020)
What does Phase Two deliver?
Phase Two – The Mine Experience will:
Create an immersive, above-ground walkthrough of a mine tunnel that tells Rossland’s mining story in a vivid, sensory way.
Renew and expand permanent exhibits and visitor spaces, including more flexible event and presentation areas.
Strengthen local tourism, education, and community pride for decades to come.
Exhibit Floor Plan
Join Us in Shaping the Future
This is not just a museum exhibit; it’s a community legacy. The Mine Experience will educate, inspire, and connect visitors of all ages to our rich mining heritage. Together, we can preserve and celebrate the stories that define Rossland’s identity.
Stay tuned for more updates and get involved today to ensure the success of this remarkable project!
Donate to the Project
We’re in the final phase of fundraising. Every gift — from $20 to $200,000 — helps close the last gap and move shovels into the ground this spring.
Gold Commissioner $100,000 and above
Grubstaker $ 50,000 - $99,999
Mine Superintendent $ 25,000 - $49,999
Blaster $ 10,000 - $24,999
Powder Monkey $ 5,000 - $9,999
Driller $ 2,000 - $4,999
Miner $ 500 - $1,999
Mucker Up to $ 499
We sincerely appreciate our supporters to date!
Ways You Can Donate
Call us! (250) 362-7722 or toll-free 888-488-7444
Nelson & District Credit Union - Rossland Museum's Renewal Project Account
Donate at Canada Helps - Rossland Historical Museum & Archives Association
Registered Charity #107915654 RR0001
Direct link to Canada Helps Donor Form
Keep an eye out for our next fundraiser!
Funds as of August 2025
Other Ways to Contribute
Participate in our fundraising events
Invite us to make a presentation to your organization on the project and support opportunities that may be available
Consider Volunteering
Fundraising Committee Member
Development Committee Member (specific to Renewal Project planning and oversight)
Help out with events, fundraisers, programming, maintenance, or wherever your interest lies!
Consider joining the Board - Annual General Meeting is held in November, but you can get in touch any time to inquire further
Have an idea? Let us know at info@ rosslandmuseum.ca or (250) 362-7722
This is Rossland’s story. This is Rossland’s Museum. Join us in building its future.
Keep Informed
Watch this page for updates!
Facebook: Rossland Museum & Discovery Centre
Instagram: @RosslandMuseum
The Vision
A Journey of Change...
A refreshed and transformed Rossland Museum that will reinforce its position as the West Kootenay's leading museum and archives
A landmark site to congregate, create, and strengthen links between diverse communities in the region
A significant shift in public programming: new interactive exhibits, exciting visitor experiences, and innovative ideas
An active presence in the community that supports local economy, spurs partnerships, and regenerates tourism
The museum sits on the “Mining in the Kootenays” Historic Site of Canada that encompasses the historic entrance to the Black Bear Mine and a number of significant, large industrial mining artifacts and related outbuildings, and outdoor community programming space. The Rossland community came together in 1967 to plan and construct the initial exhibition building for the Rossland Historical Museum as part of our Centennial celebrations.
Since 1967, the main facility has been expanded to incorporate exhibition spaces exploring themes of local skiing history, hydroelectric power generation, mining and smelting, and social and cultural history of Rossland and area. From 1967 to 2009, there was a very informative, experiential, and successful underground mine tour of the Black Bear Mine. Access to the mine was permanently closed for safety and liability concerns in 2012 by the property owners, and the museum association has endeavoured to make up for this lost educational opportunity through new interpretive displays, walking tours, gold panning, and other special programming.
The closure of the mine tour necessitated a major “Renewal” for the museum with Donald Luxton and Associates Inc. preparing a “Plan for Renewal” at the end of 2013. The Rossland Museum & Discovery Centre – working closely with Teck Metals Ltd. and the City of Rossland – has prepared a phased approach to this Renewal Project to strengthen the museum’s capacity to play a central role within the community and support its role and location as a gateway to the region.
Completed Phases
Phase I - Entrance Gallery
Renovation to the archives, administration, public washrooms, and lobby, including a new Entrance Gallery - $700,000 raised!