Mercer is a small settlement with a history shaped by the Waikato River, the railway, the people who made their lives here, rowing, and generations of the Roose family.
Our museum keeps these stories alive and shares them with the generations still to come.
The revitalized art gallery is set to redefine cultural landscape.
Five threads run through the story of Mercer: its residents, the Waikato River, the railway, rowing, and the Roose family.
PEOPLE AND PLACE
Generations of residents have made Mercer their home. Their photographs, memories, work and everyday lives tell us how the community has changed over time.
The Waikato River has always been central to this place, connecting people and communities and later supporting transport, trade and industry.
MOVEMENT AND COMMUNITY
The railway brought another connection through Mercer, carrying passengers and goods and helping the settlement grow into an important stopping place.
Rowing became part of life on the river, while the Roose family and their businesses became closely connected with Mercer’s working river story.
Keeping Mercer’s stories alive
Mercer Art and History Museum cares for photographs, objects, documents and memories that tell the story of Mercer and the people who have called this place home.
Our collection continues to grow as local families and the wider community share their photographs, memories and stories with us. Through research, displays and exhibitions, we are working to preserve this history and make it accessible for future generations.
There are still many stories to uncover, and the museum’s story continues to grow with the community.