The woman who brought hands-on learning to multiple generations of children through the creation of the London Children's Museum has died.
Carol Johnston passed away on Saturday at the age of 89.
The mother of five founded the London Children's Museum, the first of its kind in Canada, in the late 1970s. She came up with the idea after a family visit to the Boston Children’s Museum.
Carol Johnston paints a little girl's face. Submitted photo.
“The London Children’s Museum began as a trunk in our basement,” said Johnston's daughter Nancy Carson. “When my mother was growing up, museums were all about looking and reading, not touching. In her original way, Mom wanted to create a space where children could come to learn about their community and the world, and give free rein to their curiosity and excitement."
With the help of her husband Bud Johnston, family, friends, city staff members, and educators, Johnston tested museum ideas in local parks, garages, and classrooms.
For the first year, the children’s museum operated as a pop-up. It found a permanent home in 1980, when with support from the Ivey and Lawson foundations and the community the former Riverview Public School building was purchased. That space at 21 Wharncliffe Rd would remain the museum's home for the next forty years, welcoming roughly 2.5 million children over the decades. The museum has since outgrown the old building and is in the process of constructing a new 33,000 square foot home at 100 Kellogg Lane. The new space will allow for an open concept learning experience that is accessible for all kids, a rooftop outdoor area, and ample parking.
“The passing of our founder is like losing a best friend,” said Children’s Museum Executive Director Amanda Conlon. “The museum was Carol’s vision, and she has been its most dedicated supporter since we opened our doors... On a personal note, she has been a great mentor to me, even in recent years and months. She will be missed beyond measure.”
Johnston, who was also a teacher, was named as a member of the Order of Canada in 1985 as a result of her dedication to the community.
A celebration of life for Johnston will be held at the museum at a later date.
