The Arthur and Area Historical Society serves both the local community and those who wish to research their roots in this area. The Arthur and Area Historical Society was established in 2003 and is a group of people dedicated to collecting and preserving artifacts and documents of local and general interest to the Town of Arthur and township of Arthur.
We are located in the Arthur & District Chamber of Commerce building located at 146 George Street in Arthur. The Historical Rooms and displays are open to the public for viewing or research every Wednesday from 1:00 – 3:00 p.m. or by appointment. Monthly meetings with presentations on wide-ranging topics take place at the Historic Rooms on the fourth Tuesday of every month 7:30-9:00 p.m.
Arthur was described by the Toronto Star during World War II as “Canada’s Most Patriotic Village” for its contribution of volunteers and funding to the war effort. Thus, many of our exhibits are related to the military history of the area.
The above photo shows a World War II Veteran’s Kit.
However, there are many other exhibits: agriculture, sports (shown in the photo to the left), and many other activities. For further information on our Society’s work, contact us by e-mail for a complete list or check our Facebook page.
We are run totally by our volunteers who have extensive local knowledge. They assist in many ways, including services that are of use to those with genealogical interests, such as preservation and archiving of local historical documents and artifacts, and providing access to those items. Also, by providing assistance with research, particularly related to family roots (see photo below).
Resources
- An excellent collection of out-of-print local histories and atlases, such as those of townships, towns and villages in Wellington County and adjacent areas
- A 3-volume history of Arthur and Area, its people and events, by Historical Society founder, John Walsh (available for sale)
- The out-of-print volume: Beyond the Gates, a guide to the local Greenfield Cemetery, mapping each grave location
- High School Yearbooks for Arthur (District) High School from the1950s on
- Local church histories
- Photo collections of local community groups, schools, etc.
The Society is active in projects of many kinds throughout the community. Members have initiated and worked on:
- Four murals depicting area history
- Walking trails
- Signage for area historical sites
- Presentations for retirement homes
- Walking and bus tours
Contact Information
Arthur and Area Historical Society
146 George Street, Arthur, ON N0G 1A0
- Email: [email protected]
- Facebook: Arthur & Area Historical Society
- Hours: Wednesdays: 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm or by appointment