Located in the heart of historic St. Andrews-by-the-Sea, the Ross Memorial Museum is housed in a red brick Georgian mansion built in 1824, one of the town’s most architecturally significant historic buildings. Once the residence of Loyalist Harris Hatch, the museum is now home to the remarkable furniture and decorative arts collection of Henry Phipps Ross and Sarah Juliette Ross.
After visiting St. Andrews in 1902, the Rosses fell in love with the community and returned each summer for more than forty years. During that time, they assembled an impressive collection featuring fine 19th-century New Brunswick furniture, Canadian and American artwork, oriental carpets, and objects collected during their world travels. Their legacy continues through the museum and its collections.
The museum’s feature exhibit for this season explores the life and accomplishments of Edward Bannister, born and raised in St. Andrews before becoming the only nationally recognized Black artist in 19th-century America. The exhibit also highlights the role he and his wife played in supporting the Underground Railroad and refugees arriving in New Brunswick.
In addition to its permanent collection, the museum presents annual special exhibits and seasonal programming. The Ross Memorial Museum is also widely known for its Annual Christmas Open House held during the first weekend of December, featuring elaborate holiday decorations, local music, home-baked treats, and hot mulled cider throughout the historic home.
