Four Ways to Mark the 200th of the Robinson Migration in Peterborough

In 1825, nearly 2,000 Irish settlers crossed the Atlantic aboard nine ships in what has come to be known as the Robinson Migration. This year marks the 200^th anniversary of this migration that would ultimately shape the identity of Nogojiwanong-Peterborough and create a generations-long legacy of community and collaboration. From August 1-10, Nine Ships 1825 is hosting events and celebrations to mark this moment. Their arrival would forever shape the identity of Nogojiwanong—now Peterborough. As we mark the 200th anniversary of this migration in 2025, the city is offering a deeply meaningful experience for cultural travellers who want to walk in the footsteps of history, honour a legacy, and connect with the stories that built this community.

Here are four ways to immerse yourself in Peterborough’s Irish roots and explore this milestone moment in Canadian cultural history:

1. Step Into History with the Peterborough Museum & Archives and Historical Walking Tours

Atop Armour Hill with a panoramic view of the city, the Peterborough Museum and Archives is a great spot to begin your journey into the Peterborough’s Irish past. The museum’s permanent exhibitions explore Peterborough’s past through artifacts, personal stories, and spaces including a ship's berth and settler cabin that shed light on the days of early settlers.

As part of the Nine Ships 1825 festivities there will also be walking and bus tours exploring Peter Robinson’s Peterborough (with the Trent Valley Archives), and other locals like Young’s Point, Downeyville, Keene, and the Kinoomaage Waapkong at Petroglyphs Provincial Park, as well as a talk at Trent University exploring the colonial impact of the Peter Robinson Migration.

Travel Tip: Admission to the Peterborough Museum and Archives is by donation. The Peterborough Lift Lock (an iconic Peterborough attraction, the highest hydraulic lift lock) is located a short walk down the hill from the Museum

2. Embark Upon a Journey of Self-Discovery

Take a reflective urban walking tour along Water Street to Millennium Park, here nestled amongst gardens and other public art installations, you can see commemorative monuments for the migration of Irish people.

If you’re on a mission of self-discovery and navigating your own ancestral roots – be sure to check out the Nine Ships Story Map (including settlement allotments).

3. Have a Grand Time at The Canadian Canoe Museum

The newly reimagined Canadian Canoe Museum, now located along the water’s edge near Little Lake, is more than just a collection of watercraft—it’s a celebration of journey, identity, and place. As part of the Robinson Migration commemorations, the museum will host a Grand Irish Gathering featuring traditional music, storytelling, and light fare in an atmosphere of shared reflection and joy.

Buy tickets

4. Tap, Dance and Sing Along with Performances

Story and song is woven into the Irish cultural experience, while you’re here be sure to check out a full week of Irish-inspired entertainment at Peterborough Musicfest (U2 tribute band, Irish Mille and the Mud Men, and the Irish Tenors), or a special play at 4^th Line Theatre in Millbrook entitled Wild Irish Geese based on the Robinson Migration.

A Destination Rooted in Story

Whether you have Irish ancestry, a passion for Canadian history, or a love of culture and place, in Peterborough you’ll discover a city with interesting histories and a welcoming energy.

Plan your visit around the official commemoration period from August 1–10, 2025 and also be sure to enjoy other great attractions, restaurants, and events while you are here.