The museum was officially opened on 9 May 2015 and is located in the heritage-listed Nairne Institute built in 1904 which was used in the past for a number of functions including a library and Lodge meeting room.
Founded in 1839, this small township in the Adelaide Hills was one of the first towns to be surveyed in South Australia. The museum tells the story of the origins of Nairne and its community through its collection on display as well as historic photos.
Nairne had its own Militia in the 1860s and there are authentic reproductions of militia uniforms and period costume on display, while a group also re-enacts the parade and battle formations including the firing of authentic muzzle loading rifles on special occasions.
Other items on display include agricultural tools, household artefacts, school memorabilia and lodge records as well as memorabilia relating to the local mills and iconic Chapman’s smallgoods factory
The museum also has a collection of period costume allowing visitors to take their photo in the style of the 1850s.