Long before settlers arrived in Goulbourn Township, the summer solstice held deep spiritual and ecological meaning for Indigenous Peoples—a time of renewal, ceremony, and connection to the land.

Today, June 21st is recognized as National Indigenous Peoples Day. For generations, many First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities have celebrated their cultures, languages, and traditions on this day, marking its significance as the longest day of the year.

For settler farmers, the solstice also marked a turning point in the growing season—fields planted, crops growing, and harvest on the horizon. Relying on tools like the Farmers’ Almanac, they used the extended daylight to guide planting and fieldwork.

The Goulbourn Museum’s collection includes a variety of almanacs offering insight into settler agricultural life—just one layer in a much older and ongoing relationship between people and land.

To explore more almanacs or browse our full collections, visit our Online Artefact Catalogue!

Artefact Catalogue