About Us
Founded in 1953, The Oakville Historical Society is the official collector of archives for the Town of Oakville, and as a non profit, volunteer organization works to preserve and protect the historical heritage of the Town as well as promote it through its various activities and programs. The Society's extensive collections include original documents, pictures, newspapers, maps, albums, letters, diaries as well as a comprehensive historical and marine library.
Activities and Events
There's lots going on throughout the year at the Oakville Historical Society. You can join us for fun, educational activities, learn more about Oakville's history and heritage, and support our fundraising events. Visit our offices and view our exhibits and browse our historical libraries, immerse yourself in 19th century life in The Thomas House, or take a guided walk through historical neighbourhoods with us. There's lots of family fun to be had at the annual Mayor's Historical Picnic or join us for our always popular Ghost Walks.
Browse our items for sale
Looking to delve into the history of Oakville? Our range of publications, maps, art prints and other items are perfect for those eager to learn more about the town's captivating past. We have a collection of beautiful coffee table books that would be perfect as gifts for history lovers or as welcome gifts for new Oakville residents.
Join Us!
Membership has its privileges! Become a member of the Oakville Historical Society and enjoy member pricing on select items in our Shop, receive a personal invitation to our Speaker Nights and Annual Holiday Party, get priority access to Ghost Walk tickets, and direct delivery of our quarterly newsletter, plus have the opportunity to contribute to the work of the OHS through volunteering. Special membership rates are available for Seniors (60+). Move up to a Supporting level and a portion of your membership will be eligible for a tax receipt.
Is this your ancestor?
The Society's extensive collection covering various aspects of the history of Oakville and the former Trafalgar Township includes original documents, pictures, newspapers, maps, albums, ephemera, letters, diaries and both archival and reference books. Our main reference library contains over 1,500 works dealing with Oakville and Trafalgar Township history, family histories and genealogies, municipal directories, and much more. A separate section includes aids to genealogical research.
Our Plaques
The Oakville Historical Society has been producing and providing plaques for historical properties around town for many years. The Plaques provide property owners with the opportunity to display the heritage and their pride of ownership of their historical residence or business. Each plaque is hand made and involves many hours of historical research and meticulous craftsmanship.
Support Us
Your financial donations make a huge difference and help assist with running our programs and activities. Consider making a donation in honour of a special person or to commemorate a special occasion in your life.
Contribute an Item or Story
Do you have photos, letters, or other documents with links to Oakville's past? Please consider contributing them to our collection. If you have a story to tell about life in Oakville in days gone by, we would love to hear it!
Volunteer
Our volunteers are the heart and soul of our Society. There are so many ways to get involved and we can always use another helping hand, so please join us!