James Anderson Gallery
James Anderson understood the importance of preserving Stratford and Perth County's heritage. A former school teacher and fine artist, he was the County's first archivist from 1972-1991. He was once described in the local paper as a "colourful, feisty character that cared deeply about heritage and preserving architecture. In 1981 to protest the disbanding of the Perth County Historical Board, he went on a hunger strike with an overnight stay atop the Perth County Courthouse roof."
Out of his hard work and passion came the Stratford-Perth Archives, the Stratford Perth Museum, and the Brocksden Country School Museum; even the Fryfogel Tavern was better preserved. When he retired in 1991, the Archives Association of Ontario presented him with their first J.J. Talman Award for his pioneering work in archives.
| Current Exhibits |
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We change exhibits throughout the year and host travelling exhibits. Stay tuned! |
| Upcoming Exhibits |
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2022
2023
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| Past Exhibits |
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2019
2018
2017
2016
2015
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History Pin and QR Codes
History Pin |
| History Pin offers an opportunity to view a community or place as a snapshot in time or throughout the years. It lets the user, like the Stratford-Perth Archives, pin photos and information that are searchable by location and date. Explore our History Pin channel and learn about different sites from around Stratford and Perth County. |
Sites and Stories QR Code Exhibit |
| Our community based QR code initiative takes a 21st century approach to sharing information about seven significant buildings that are key elements of Stratford's heritage. There are signs in place for these buildings: Stratford City Hall, Perth County Court House, the Registry Office, Stratford Jail, Stratford Public Library, Stratford Train Station, and Pump House (Art Gallery). All you need is a smart phone with QR-reading technology to scan the QR code. This will give you information about each of the buildings. |
Upcoming Events
PLEASE NOTE THAT ALL PUBLIC EVENTS ARE POSTPONED INDEFINITELY.
UPDATES WILL BE POSTED HERE WHEN INFORMATION IS AVAILABLE.
The Perth County Ontario Genealogy Society hosts events in the archives gallery. Visit Perth County OGS Events for information. All welcome!
The Stratford and District Historical Society holds events in the archives gallery from time to time. For more information email sdhs2019@yahoo.com.
Walking Tours
Stratford's literary history is rich; some of Canada's best-known authors and illustrators have called our city home and found inspirations here, from well-known places like the Shakespearean Gardens to the original sections of Avondale Cemetery. Walk along with us to discover where they may have plotted stories, sketched characters or had that idea that turned into a best-selling novel. The walk will take you about 30 minutes. Celebrate Stratford's Literary Heritage and take the walking tour.
Group Visits and Tours
The Stratford-Perth Archives offers Group Visits and Tours for schools and community organizations. Contact us to set up a tour! Staff presentations on beginning genealogy, researching a house history, and local history topics are also available. There is no charge for community group visits but donations are welcome.
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