Image: Chilliwack Museum & Archives / Rosslyn Shipp (left) and Mary Watson. 

By Mike Vanden Bosch

Chilliwack Museum & Archives

Chilliwack Museum & Archives welcomes new executive director, curator

Mar 6, 2025 | 9:00 AM

CHILLIWACK — The Chilliwack Museum & Archives has welcomed Rosslyn Shipp as its new executive director and Mary Watson as curator at the organization, a fixture in Chilliwack since the 1950s.

According to a news release, both Shipp and Watson embody a shared passion for community engagement, heritage preservation, and inclusive storytelling. The museum says Shipp steps into the role of executive director with a deep commitment to fostering meaningful relationships within the community.

“Museums are places for dialogue, reflection, and connection,” said Shipp. “I’m eager to learn from Chilliwack’s diverse communities and along with the team here, create a welcoming space for all who are curious about the past and how it shapes our present and future.”

As museum curator, Watson carries a strong commitment to community-driven storytelling and exhibitions. The museum says she is passionate about collaborating with Indigenous and local communities to ensure that Chilliwack’s many histories are thoughtfully represented.

“I’m excited to learn and share Chilliwack’s diverse stories and history by working alongside the community and interpreting content in creative, interactive, and accessible ways,” Watson said.

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Chilliwack Museum & Archives board chair Pat Clark says Shipp and Watson will work to help advance the museum’s mission of presenting Chilliwack’s history and its future.

“We are thrilled to welcome Rosslyn and Mary to our dedicated team of staff and volunteers,” Clark said. “The Museum & Archives are heading into the next stage in our continuing goal of connecting people with the past, present, and future. We are excited to be working with Rosslyn and Mary on that goal. We know their experience and perspectives will strengthen the Society’s role as a vibrant hub for history, learning and connection.”

The Chilliwack Museum & Archives invites the public to visit their facilities, meet Shipp and Watson, and explore the ever-changing exhibits and programs. As they settle into their new roles, the two newest personnel look forward to building relationships, fostering community connections and making the Museum & Archives a place that illustrates the narrative and shared histories of the people and communities of Chilliwack.