The story of the Dionne Quintuplets is one of the most remarkable chapters in Canadian history and one that captured the world—and it began right here in the North Bay area. On May 28, 1934 five identical girls were born to Oliva and Elzire Dionne, a Franco-Ontario family in the tiny community of Corbeil, just south of the city. The Dionne sisters; Yvonne, Émilie, Marie, Annette and Cécile, became the first known quintuplets to survive infancy and their arrival made international headlines and drew visitors from across the globe, forever tying their legacy to the region.
The Dionne Quints’ century old family home has been transformed to the Dionne Quints Museum and invites visitors to step back in time and explore this extraordinary story firsthand. The museum offers an intimate glimpse into the early years of the quintuplets’ lives including authentic artifacts, photographs, clothing, and family memorabilia bringing their childhood to life, while the carefully preserved rooms show the humble environment where their world-famous journey began.
A visit to the Dionne Quints Museum is both fascinating and deeply moving. Exhibits illustrate not only the sisters’ rise to international fame and the unique challenges of their upbringing, but also the social, cultural, and medical context of the 1930s. It’s a chance to better understand how their story shaped child care, media, and tourism in Ontario—and how their legacy continues to spark important conversations today.
Located minutes from downtown North Bay, the museum is a free must-see for history lovers, families, and anyone curious about this unprecedented moment in time. Friendly staff and guided tours ensure that every visitor comes away with a deeper appreciation for the quintuplets’ impact on the community and the world. Open Friday and Saturdays from 10am to 4pm during the summer and fall seasons, private tours can also be arranged on days they are closed to the public. Please provide at least 48 hours’ notice for booking to the Dionne Quints Heritage Board.
Discover the incredible story of the Dionne Quintuplets and experience the history that put North Bay on the global map. Your visit supports the preservation of an unforgettable chapter in Canada’s past.