The mission of the Wellington County Museum & Archives is to serve as a cultural centre providing resources, programs, exhibits, support and services for the historical, educational and artistic interests for the communities of Wellington County.

The Structure:

The museum stands majestically overlooking the once mill-laden Grand River between the towns of Fergus and Elora. Built of locally quarried limestone in 1877 as the House of Industry and Refuge, this landmark structure provided shelter for the "deserving poor," the aged and the homeless for almost a century.

On July 1st, 1998, a commemorative plaque was erected by The National Historic Sites Board of Canada, to celebrate our building's rich heritage and mark its place in history as the oldest House of Industry in Canada.

The Museum:

The Wellington County Museum and Archives was established in 1954 by the Wellington County Historical Research Society and in 1957 The County of Wellington assumed ownership and operation.

The Museum and Archives presents many fun and exciting exhibits and events and presents the life stories of Wellington County people over the past centuries. Exhibits focus on historical displays of photographs and artifacts as well as the visual arts and the hosting of travelling exhibitions. The ever-changing exhibits are complemented by Special Festivals and events such as Heritage Day, Herb Fair, Antique and Classic Car Show, Harvest Home, Christmas Festival, musical concerts and Insights Juried Art Show in association with the Elora Arts Council. The Museum and Archives also offers internet users a chance to see virtual exhibits and on-line collections research.

School children experience history through various curriculum-based programmes and other learning opportunities such as Theatre for the Schools and Canada at War

The Wellington County Museum & Archives is supported by the County of Wellington, donations, members, volunteers, and the Ontario Ministry of Citizenship, Culture and Recreation.

The Experience:

A visit to the museum is an opportunity to experience the cultural legacy left by the courageous settlers to this vast county of rolling hills, stony fields, deep gorges and quaint villages. The names and histories of these people are reflected in the museum's collection and impressive gallery displays.

We invite you to explore the rich cultural heritage of this culturally rich area, found within the halls of the Wellington County Museum & Archives.