The first recorded meeting of Saugeen Lodge #197 was held in 1868 under dispensation from the Grand Master. The original charter was signed by the Most Worshipful Brother Alexander Allan Stevenson. The 150th anniversary of Saugeen Lodge was celebrated in 2018. During Doors Open, visitors can get a rare look inside the culture and practices of this masonic lodge.

Built in 1899, this church was constructed on land donated by a local farmer from the Shiloh community. It has a grand, open interior with plaster walls and incredible acoustics, perfect for music and singing. Don’t miss this rare opportunity to visit this church as it will be closing in October (when the congregation will move to Inwood United).

St. Joseph Church celebrated its first mass on December 24, 1928. This building retains its rich history through marble altars, communion rails, statues and stained-glass windows. An honour roll marks the service of Second World War parishioners. The church also has a tradition of welcoming immigrant families. It serves many international students today, as well as helping those in need.

Until 1884, when this church was constructed, itinerant ministers held services in this community in people’s homes. Initially built as a modest frame structure, the current Romanesque-style brick building replaced it in 1888, with unique architectural details worth exploring during your visit. The adjacent cemetery contains the remains of many of Vaughan’s notable pioneering families.

Built in 1877 for a branch of Presbyterians affiliated with the Church of Scotland, this handsome church was sold to the United Methodists in 1886. In 1925, the Methodists and other Presbyterians joined and became the United Church of Canada. More recently, the building has undergone many renovations and upgrades, including a new kitchen and opening up the sanctuary.

Explore the rich history of the Sydenham Antique Club at the Florence & District Community Centre where standing displays of vintage agricultural equipment bring the past to life. Learn about the origins of the annual Grand Ole Power Days and discover the club's dedication to preserving rural heritage for future generations.

The Vaughan Civic Centre is an example of civic landscapes with environmentally responsible development. The floorplan, a series of bands referencing town planning and north-south concession grids, is organized around interconnected, centrally located atria to maximize access to daylight and fresh air. During Doors Open, explore the City Hall, council chambers and archives and learn how it all works together.

This park contains three unique heritage sites worth exploring, including the Vellore Schoolhouse and the Vellore Township Hall. The initial log schoolhouse was replaced by this larger building in 1868 at a cost of $1,200. The local township hall, built in c. 1845, became Memorial Hall in 1919 to honour local soldiers who died in the First World War.

Commemorating Queen Victoria’s diamond jubilee, this building has housed municipal offices, a marketplace, police station and more. With eight floor levels and a 300-seat theatre with balcony — one of a few remaining in Ontario in its original condition — the hall was purchased by the local branch of the Architectural Conservancy Ontario in 1997. Today, it is a thriving performance venue.

This floodway — Ontario's largest flood diversion project — was completed in 1984 to prevent flooding in Wallaceburg. It includes an earth-filled embankment, a concrete control structure with two sluice gates, and a channel to the St. Clair River. During Doors Open, come and visit the dam. An adjoining trail also allows you to view prime rare blue ash trees.

The Walkerton Agricultural Society is home to the annual Walkerton Little Royal Fair. The Society encourages an awareness of agriculture and promotes improvements of persons living in the agricultural community. Formed in 1854, the Society celebrates its 170th anniversary this year. Over the decades, it has seen many changes. Come and visit the site and learn about its fascinating history.

The Walkerton Clean Water Centre (WCWC) is an agency of the Government of Ontario, established to help safeguard water resources. They coordinate and deliver education and training for water-system owners, operators, operating authorities and First Nations communities. The facility includes three classrooms and a Technology Demonstration Facility, featuring conventional and advanced water treatment technologies, pilot distribution systems and a laboratory.

Built in 1867, the Walkerton Jail operated for almost 144 years, closing in 2011. The former jail is part of a complex including the courthouse and ServiceOntario office. The jail held prisoners from Grey, Bruce and Huron counties. There are several exciting stories of hangings and escapes. It has also been featured on one of the Historic Cargill/Greenock Swamp tours!

This century farmhouse was built by William MacDonald, the great-grandfather of present owner David Ferguson. The home maintains its original slate roof, five stained-glass windows, mahogany/walnut staircase/living room entrance and majestic outdoor two-level wrap-around porch. Together with his wife Gabrielle, the Fergusons will be happy to provide description and history. Today, the house is a popular bed-and-breakfast establishment.

Explore the historical charm of the Watford Library, a proud example of a Carnegie Library, built with a $6,000 grant from the Carnegie Foundation. (Scottish-American businessman and philanthropist, Andrew Carnegie, funded the construction of over 2,500 libraries worldwide.) Although renovated, the library retains its original architectural elegance. Come and experience a piece of living history in Warwick Township.

This house was built in the 1880s. It passed through various owners. Its most famous resident was artist William Armstrong who moved into the house in 1968 and lived and painted there until his death in 2000. Amstrong painted landscapes and still life; his paintings are part of the National Gallery of Canada. Tours of the studio will be available.

In commemoration of the great courage demonstrated by the men from the Woodbridge area killed during the First World War, the Village of Woodbridge Council passed a bylaw in 1924 for the purpose of erecting a memorial tower in honour of these men who laid down their lives for King and Country. Volunteers will be available to answer questions.

Celebrate art, music and culture at Museum London's event! Experience Ron Benner's captivating As The Crow Flies installation and enjoy roasted corn and lime juice (at the maíz a la barbacoa wagon). Celebrate Latin American Heritage Month with local musicians and dancers and try new rhythms presented by Simple Reflections for Artists. Everyone is welcome to join the fun!

The Almonte Fair has a long history, dating back to 1853. The fair, facilities and grounds are managed and maintained by the North Lanark Agricultural Society. Built in 1869, the Agricultural Hall is now used for parties, weddings, horticultural judging, exhibitions, fundraising events, exhibits and more. While you're here, visit Canada's oldest wooden covered grandstand as well, built in 1868.

This former home of sawmill owner Robert Teskey is now a popular venue for celebrations and getaway weekends, complete with a pool and hot tub. Teskey emigrated from County Cork in Ireland in 1823 at the age of 24 with his parents and siblings as part of the Peter Robinson settlers project to help populate British North America.

This church was constructed in the classical style, typical of southern Europe, which was introduced to Canada by the French in the 17th century. It is one of the most architecturally interesting and impressive churches in rural Canada. Come and explore this fine building, including its superb original interior décor, which survives intact from over a century ago.

Join Multicultural Sunday at the Covent Garden Market, a vibrant celebration of global diversity. Enjoy live music, enticing food vendors and artisan stalls highlighting cultures from around the world. Indulge in delicious eats, immerse yourself in cultural experiences and dance the day away at Rotary Square. Don't miss this opportunity to savour the flavours and rhythms from across the globe!

Celebrate World Car-Free Day in Wortley Village! Every year on September 22, cities worldwide participate in this United Nations-featured event — encouraging motorists to give up their cars for a day. This year, as part of Doors Open London, experience a pedestrianized zone with walking tours, yoga, storytelling and martial arts. Enjoy local shops and cuisine, all in a car-free environment.

Celebrate World Car-Free Day on the Thames Valley Parkway! Every year on September 22, cities worldwide participate in this United Nations-featured event — encouraging motorists to give up their cars for a day. This year, as part of Doors Open London, learn about cycling safety at the Thames Region Ecological Association booth. Enjoy guided tours, e-bike test rides and children's activities!

This beautiful historical landmark is in the heart of Almonte, attracting attention from all over town (as was the intention when the building was constructed). It has housed a variety of different operations over the years — including a fire station, police station and jail, and municipal library. Today, it's used for theatre productions, events, weddings, classes and municipal office space.