Brockton

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.

The Bruce County’s Walkerton Patrol Shop ensures the safety and maintenance of roads throughout the community. The original part of the building is used for vehicle storage by night, and vehicle maintenance by day. The two-bay addition houses a welding/fabrication shop. And the office, employee amenities and storage area also house a sign shop and vehicle parts storage.

The Brockton Heritage Committee plays a vital role in preserving the rich heritage of Brockton and area. Their archival collection — located in the former Township of Greenock's Council Chambers, currently the Greenock Works Shop — consists of historical artifacts, many of which were donated by members of the community. During Doors Open, come and learn about the area’s fascinating history.

The Bruce County Bookstore features books and authors relating to the county’s history, architecture, literature, agriculture and tourism. Explore the walls that are covered in artwork. Take a guided tour and learn more of the history of the site, and about the many readings and gatherings they have throughout the year. And maybe take home a souvenir from your visit.

Henry Cargill built a thriving rural town of diversified pioneering industries and early amenities (electricity, telephone, fire department and library). The Cargill Museum brings to life Cargill's early history as the lumbering and entrepreneurial heart of Bruce County. Located in a former Royal Bank, it has been restored to include the original tin ceiling, bank vault and hardwood floors.

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.

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 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.

Founded in 1917, Hammond Power Solutions has grown from crafting tools for the foundry industry to being a magnetic solutions leader in the electro industry. The Walkerton plant, established in 1976, has undergone substantial growth, now manufacturing over 65,000 transformers and reactors annually for commercial buildings, plants and schools. Come and learn more about this site and their work.

This three-level stone dwelling was built by Protasius Flach and his son Johann in 1865. In 1996, Flach’s great-granddaughter took ownership of this mixed-farming property and oversaw the home’s restoration by local artisans and building designers in 2016. Its interior furnishings reflect the home’s original era. Exterior attractions include a working windmill, a lavish outhouse and a groomed landscape.

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!