Founded in 1913, the Castlemaine Art Gallery and Historical Museum has acquired an excellent collection of Australian art works and of historical items from the district’s past.

The 1931 art deco building is noted for its elegant design and is Heritage listed. The building has been extended a number of times. It was further extended and refurbished in 2000 with a Federation Grant of $2M from the Federal Government.

The Gallery and Museum is fully accredited by Museums Australia. It is owned by private trustees and managed by a committee elected by subscribers. State and local government support is provided, but the Gallery has a particularly strong tradition of private support from artists and patrons, and its collection has been enriched by such famous personalities as Dame Nellie Melba.