Wellington County, Ont. – History comes alive this spring as the Wellington County Archives opens its doors, inviting residents to uncover the rich tapestry of local heritage through an exciting series of events and opportunities.
Behind the Scenes Guided Tours
This April and May, history buffs and curious residents can step into the heart of historical preservation with exclusive behind-the-scenes guided tours of the Archives' processing room and storage vault. These unique experiences offer a rare glimpse into how precious community memories are carefully collected, preserved, and made accessible.
Ask an Archivist Events
Got a burning question about local history? The Archives' Ask an Archivist programme is a gateway to discovery. Whether its tracing family roots, researching a house's history, or historical document preservation tips, expert Archivists can help.
- Harriston Library: April 14, 2:00 – 6:00 pm
- Mount Forest Library: April 22, 1:00 – 4:00 pm
- Puslinch Library: May 3, 12:00 – 3:00 pm (with Puslinch Historical Society)
- Rockwood Library: May 5, 2:00 – 5:00 pm
- Hillsburgh Library: May 13, 3:00 – 6:00 pm
- Clifford Library: May 15, 3:00 – 6:00 pm
Can't make an event? No problem! The Archives welcomes visitors weekdays from 9:30 am to 4:30 pm, and Saturdays by appointment from 11:30 am to 4:00 pm. Online video consultations are also available for those unable to visit in person.
A Treasure Trove of Historical Resources
The Archives isn't just a building—it's a time machine. Housing an incredible array of historical records, the collection spans:
- Personal diaries that whisper individual stories
- Local history books capturing community spirit
- Photographs freezing moments in time
- Architectural drawings revealing our built heritage
- Digital resources accessible at your fingertips
Visitors can also explore history from home with these digital collections:
- Online Collections Catalogue
- Women's Institute Tweedsmuir Histories
- Wellington County Historical Society essays
- Local history articles and newspapers
- Wellington County Remembers: Commemorating Our Fallen
- Wellington County House of Industry and Refuge Resident Database
"Archival records are created every day and provide windows into our shared past," says Karen Wagner, Archivist. "From family historians to researchers, students to professionals, these documents tell the story of Wellington County. Wellington County Archives preserves our rich documentary history, ensuring it is available for the future, keeping our community's memory alive."
Your History, Your Archives
Interested in contributing? The Archives actively welcomes donations that capture stories of Wellington County‘s people, events and organizations – whether from today or from the past. If you have documents or photographs from your home or business, please consider donating to help the Archives expand its collection.
The Wellington County Museum and Archives is on Wellington Road 18 between Fergus and Elora.
Media Contact:
Karen Wagner, Archivist
519.846.0916 x 5235
karenw@wellington.ca