The collections held at the Canadian Museum of Civilization reflect research undertaken for the last century. They are grouped under the following four main disciplines, with additional special collections.
The Archaelogy collection contains materials evidencing Canada's pre-history, from the last ice age to the arrival of Europeans in North America. Most of these materials have been gathered by archaeological field-work, primarily on federal land in the provinces and territories.
The Ethnology collection contains materials representing Canadian First Nations, Inuit and Métis cultures. This collection developed out of the work of Geological Survey of Canada investigators in the 19th century. In recent decades it has expanded to include an extensive and important collection of contemporary Native art.
The Cultural Studies collection contains materials reflecting folklife and multicultural aspects of Canada. Artifacts originate from all regions of the country, as well as from cultural groups who have migrated to Canada. The collections demonstrate the artistry, ingenuity and skills of Canadians, whether hobbyists or artists.
The History Collection consists of materials illustrating the heritage of everyday Canadian life. The collections represent all regions of Canada and all periods from the seventeenth century to the present day. They highlight Canadian themes of national interest.
The Living History collection includes a mixture of original artifacts and reproductions, many of which are actively used to support various museum programmes - to demonstrate how the objects would have been used in the past.
The Library and Archives are responsible for a collection of published and unpublished materials including books, journals, photographs and documents. The collection, which dates back to the 1800s, has been identified as a national resource in anthropology by Library and Archives Canada.
