Collingwood, ON [15 April 2025] – The Collingwood Museum is pleased to announce the latest addition to its Community Collectors exhibit series, Growing Roots: The Legacy of Smart Bros. Ltd. in Collingwood, 1890-1970. This compelling multi-feature installation delves into the history of one of Collingwood’s most influential and enduring businesses.
Starting in 1890 as a modest market garden, Smart Bros. Ltd. grew to become one of Collingwood’s largest and longest-running enterprises. The Growing Roots exhibit explores the remarkable journey of the Smart family and their contributions to the town’s growth and development, showcasing the lasting impact of the business on both the local economy and the community at large.
Through a collection of items on loan from Collingwood resident George Christie, the exhibit offers a glimpse into the operations of Smart Bros. Ltd. and the deep personal connections that Collingwood residents continue to hold with the company’s history. Christie’s grandfather and great uncle, W.G. and Norman Smart, were the first generation of brothers to manage Smart Bros. Ltd.
An accompanying photographic installation provides a rich visual narrative, featuring photographs from the Museum’s collection and from private collections. The vibrant photographs preserve the faces of Smart’s employees, company celebrations, and general operations over the years. They also document the company’s continuing legacy more than 55 years after its official dissolution.
Join staff for an unforgettable celebration of Smart Bros. Ltd. at the Collingwood Museum on Saturday May 24, 2025, between 1:00 p.m. and 4:00 p m. Whether you are a former Smart’s employee, have a connection with someone who worked there, or are interested in learning more, celebrate Smart’s legacy with us! Explore the exhibits, reminisce with fellow community members, and share your memories and stories of this important local business. Don’t miss the chance to be a part of a group photograph at 2:15 p.m. sharp! Do you have Smart Bros. memorabilia? Bring it along for a special show-and-tell! Light refreshments will be served.
The Growing Roots exhibit is on display until May 31, 2025, during regular hours of operation at the Collingwood Museum. 45 St. Paul Street.
To learn more, please visit the Collingwood Museum’s website www.collingwood.ca/museum or contact Museum staff.
