Parkdale-Maplewood Community Museum
The Parkdale-Maplewood Community Museum is a nonprofit heritage institution located in Maplewood, Nova Scotia, dedicated to preserving the cultural and historical legacy of rural communities in the South Shore region. Founded through the efforts of Thomas I. Spidell, a local missionary and collector, the museum originated in the 1930s with artifacts Spidell gathered during his travels across North America and Europe. Initially exhibited in a barn, the collection later expanded into dedicated facilities, including the historic Maccabee Lodge Hall and newer additions such as the Lloyd and Muriel Room (1984) and a modern wing housing administrative spaces, a research center, and a gift shop[^4^].

Collections and Exhibits
The museum’s exhibits span rural life from 1840 onward, emphasizing local craftsmanship, Indigenous heritage, and historical tools and household items. Displays feature folk art, textiles, and artifacts related to regional industries, alongside a research center offering genealogical resources and community photographs[^3^][^5^]. The site includes heritage gardens and hosts educational programs and events aligned with its interpretive mandate to connect visitors with the area’s social and natural history[^3^][^4^].

Governance and Operations
Managed by a Society, the museum operates under a curatorial team led by Donna Arenburg, with seasonal hours typically running from May to September[^4^]. It relies on membership support and volunteer efforts, offering quarterly newsletters to members[^4^]. The institution emphasizes accessibility and community engagement, welcoming bus tours and providing space for local meetings[^3^][^5^].

Historical Development
Key expansions include the relocation of the Maccabee Lodge in the 1960s and a major renovation in the 1980s–2000s to accommodate growing collections and public services[^4^]. Its evolution reflects grassroots preservation efforts characteristic of Nova Scotia’s community museums.

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