Ottawa, July 3, 2024
In Memoriam: Remembering Robin Inglis's Enduring Legacy
With profound sadness, we announce the passing of Robin Inglis, a respected figure in Canada’s museum sector. Robin passed away on June 19, 2024 at the age of 82, leaving behind an indelible legacy that has enriched the cultural landscape of Canada and beyond.Born in Nottingham, England in 1942, Robin's journey led him to become a pillar of the Canadian museum community. After completing his studies in History at Cambridge University, Robin ventured to Canada in 1965 to embark on a teaching career at Lower Canada College in Montreal. It was there that he met his beloved wife Beverly, with whom he shared a lifelong partnership.
In 1971, Robin's passion for preserving and disseminating history led him to pursue a Master of Museum Studies at the University of Toronto and the Royal Ontario Museum. This marked the beginning of his highly distinguished career in the museum sector. Robin's tenure as Executive Director of the Canadian Museums Association from 1974 to 1979 was marked by pioneering initiatives that laid the groundwork for a thriving professional organization.
Throughout his career, Robin remained deeply committed to advancing museum scholarship and professionalism. His contributions to the CMA journal Muse, participation in conferences, and leadership as Chair of the Fellows exemplify his dedication to elevating the museum field.
Robin's impact extended far beyond his administrative roles. He served as Director of the Vancouver Maritime Museum from 1982 to 1991, and later as Director of the North Vancouver Museum and Archives from 1991 to 2007. Under his stewardship, the North Vancouver Museum began the transformation into Monova, situated at the historic Shipyards. Most recently he worked with the Land of Maquinna Cultural Society of Nootka Sound on a restoration of the church at the Yuquot National Historic Site of Canada.
A prolific author and scholar, Robin's publications on European exploration of the Northwest Coast and his expertise on the Spanish presence in the North Pacific have earned him international acclaim. His scholarly pursuits were complemented by his role as Editor in Chief of Material History Review and as the founding editor of the International Congress of Maritime Museums newsletter.
In recognition of his contributions to history and museology, Robin received numerous accolades, including the Queen's Diamond Jubilee medal from the CMA, as well as the Cross of Naval Merit from the Government of Spain and the Ordre des Palmes Académiques from France. His dedication to historical pilgrimage was reflected in his appointment to the Board of the Canadian Company of Pilgrims, a role that resonated with his belief in the transformative power of walking.
Robin Inglis leaves behind a profound legacy that will continue to inspire generations of museum professionals, scholars, and history enthusiasts. His unwavering passion for preserving and sharing our collective heritage serves as a beacon of inspiration for all who strive to illuminate the past for future generations.
He will be dearly missed by his family, friends, colleagues, and the countless individuals whose lives he touched through his work.
The family held Robin’s funeral and memorial on June 29, 2024 in BC.
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