For Immediate Release - July 4, 2025 

Wellington County Museum and Archives (WCMA) is proud to present Destination  Wellington: Newcomers to Neighbours, a compelling new exhibition that celebrates the diverse  journeys of people who have chosen to build their lives in Wellington County. 

The exhibition  draws from the popular Wellington Welcomes profiles showcased in 2023, alongside newly  researched historical stories from Wellington County’s newcomers and immigrants. 

"People from around the world have chosen Wellington County as the place to put down roots,"  said Hailey Johnston, Curator. "This exhibition highlights both the challenges newcomers have  faced and the tremendous positive impact they've had on our communities." 

Through personal stories, photographs, and artifacts brought by migrants, visitors will explore  the journeys that led people to Wellington County. Each profile includes a map showing  migration routes from countries around the world to specific communities within Wellington  County, demonstrating the global connections that have enriched our local history. 

“Moving through different time periods, Destination Wellington demonstrates that migration is  not just a contemporary phenomenon, but an ongoing story that has shaped Wellington County  for generations,” adds Johnston. 

Perfect Timing for Community Celebration  

The opening of Destination Wellington comes at an ideal time, as WCMA hosts the Wellington  County Multicultural Festival this Saturday, July 5. 

This free, family-friendly celebration of the  diverse people, cultures, and communities that make our region special features live cultural  performances, children's activities, food vendors, and a new marketplace representing countries  from around the world. While Destination Wellington tells the personal stories of individuals  who have made Wellington County their home across different eras, the Multicultural Festival  brings those stories to life through the vibrant cultures that continue to enrich our communities  today.

  

Visitors can also explore WCMA's current exhibition, Refuge Canada, which examines Canada's  role in the global refugee crisis and the experiences of those who have sought sanctuary in our  country.  

Destination Wellington runs from July 5 until spring 2026. 

  

About WCMA - WCMA tells the stories of the people and places of Wellington County. The museum is located  on Wellington Road 18 between Fergus and Elora in the oldest remaining rural House of Industry  and Refuge (or 'Poor House') in Canada.  

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