Sir John A. Macdonald at the Canadian Museum of History

Rare and intriguing treasures from the vaults of Library and Archives Canada

Draft of the British North America Act in Sir John A. Macdonald’s handwriting (first page) By Sir John A. Macdonald with later annotations by Sir Joseph Pope, ca. 1866–67 Ink on paper

Library and Archives Canada, e011081134

Handwritten last will and testament of Sir John A. Macdonald (envelope) Ink on paper with signature and appended seal

Library and Archives Canada, e008303512

Handwritten last will and testament of Sir John A. Macdonald (last page) Ink on paper with signature and appended seal

Library and Archives Canada, e008303512

Earliest known portrait of Sir John A. Macdonald By an unknown artist, ca. 1842—43 Oil on canvas

Library and Archives Canada, e010935956

Sir John A. Macdonald’s school book, age 12 Ink on paper, January 13, 1827

Library and Archives Canada, e008295411

Telegram announcing the driving of the last spike of the Canadian Pacific Railway By William Cornelius Van Horne, November 7, 1885 Ink on paper

Library and Archives Canada, e011081135

Inspect the photo slideshow above to see five rare and intriguing treasures from the Canadian Museum of History's recent exhibition on Sir John A. Macdonald. You will see a draft of the British North America Act in Sir John A. Macdonald’s handwriting, a telegram announcing the driving of the last spike of the Canadian Pacific Railway, the earliest known portrait of Sir John A. Macdonald, the handwritten last will and testament of Sir John A. Macdonald, and Sir John A. Macdonald’s school book from the age 12.

The Canadian Museum of History has included these pieces and more in its special display developed by Library and Archives Canada (LAC) that offers fascinating glimpses into the life of one of Canada’s most iconic political figures. Sir John A. Macdonald – Rare and Intriguing Treasures from the Vaults of Library and Archives Canada will be presented at the Canadian Museum of History from November 20, 2015 to April 10, 2016. This display is being presented as part of an ongoing collaboration between the two institutions designed to share resources and expertise and showcase collections for the benefit of Canadians. You can always read more about the exhibition on the Canadian Museum of History's website.