Starting July 18, Cobourg's Sifton-Cook Heritage Centre will reopen for an abbreviated 2020 season. The Cobourg Museum Foundation, which runs the centre, has just released details under which it will operate in respect of the COVID-19 pandemic, such as weekend-only hours – 10 a.m. to 5 p.m, Fridays and Saturdays, and 1 to 5 p.m. Sundays, through Thanksgiving.
In line with health recommendations a number of new rules apply, such as restricted capacity that – perhaps – may result in a waiting line at times.
The wearing of face masks will be required, with some available on-site if needed. Social distancing and hand sanitizing will also be part of the routine as visitors follow a one-way route through the old barracks building.
The Cottage will not be open to visitors, and the washroom is only available in emergencies.
Visitors will be pleased to see the model Cobourg and Peterborough Railway circling the grounds as usual. Inside, they will enjoy a retrospective exhibit encompassing the museum's first eight years.
Each year has focused on a special theme, such as Sports, The Military, Cobourg & Canada, and Our Built Heritage. Organizers see this retrospective as a special opportunity for anyone who has missed some of all of these exhibitions, and an interesting review for regulars.
The Sifton-Cook Heritage Centre is located at 141 Orr St. (just a quick walk from the downtown).