Located in the historical hamlet of Mount Joy, Markham Museum is situated on 10 hectares (25 acres) and operates out of historical and purpose-built structures. As part of Doors Open, enjoy a special vault tour with members from the curatorial team — a rare opportunity to see how items donated by the community are cared for. Pre-registration required.

Situated in Unionville’s historical village core, the Varley Art Gallery is an excellent example of post-modern architecture that contrasts with its neighbouring heritage buildings. The gallery — named after Group of Seven artist Fred Varley, who lived in Unionville in his later years — is home to a fine collection of the artist’s works, as well as those of other Canadian artists.

Plan to visit one of Canada’s oldest remaining railway stations and one of the few 19th-century stations still in its original trackside location. Constructed in 1870 for the Toronto & Nipissing Railway, this unique building is clad in board-and-batten siding with a gable roof and six-over-six paned windows. The municipality restored the building as a community centre in 1989.

This mid-19th-century house was converted to a public library in the 1970s. It is a cherished local amenity that fits comfortably into Colborne Street’s exceptional historical streetscape. Recently, the library was featured in Deborah Kerbel’s ghost story Lure, published by Dundurn Press in 2010. The ghost of Ellen Ramsden, the original owner, is said to make the occasional appearance.

Unionville's restored Stiver Mill, a local landmark, now serves as a community centre and farmers’ market. Originally built as a grain elevator, the western portion of the structure is one of the last of its kind in the region. A feed mill was added to the east end in the 1930s. Come and enjoy family fun activities during Doors Open.

This distinctive example of Ontario vernacular architecture features Gothic revival and classical revival detailing. It was originally the home of Salem Eckardt, a local auctioneer. Group of Seven artist Frederick Varley lived here in his later years; he had a studio in the basement. The space now showcases the work of local artists and provides a studio for art instruction.

The restoration of this original 1871 railway station was the first major project of the Markham Village Conservancy, with restoration completed in 2000. The exterior paint colours were reproduced from c. 1910 when the rail line was part of the Grand Trunk Railway. Today, the station serves GO Transit commuters and functions as a community centre for meetings and classes.

The design of this building was inspired by late 19th-century firehalls and features an 18-metre (60-foot) replica of a hose drying tower, historically common to most firehalls. This firehall was designed to fit into the context of historical Markham Village. During Doors Open Markham, come and visit the station and the fire safety house and learn more about fire prevention.

The Markham Heritage Estates is one of Markham’s most innovative heritage conservation initiatives and Canada’s first heritage subdivision. It offers a home for Markham’s threatened heritage dwellings that cannot be retained on their original sites. Buildings are relocated and restored by private individuals with staff guidance, on lots obtained from the city at reduced market rates. Prepare to be amazed!

Heintzman House is one of the oldest buildings in Markham. Originally built as an adobe brick cottage dating from the early 19th century, the house was enlarged by Colonel George Crookshank in 1817. Charles T. Heintzman, grandson of the founder of Toronto’s Heintzman Piano Company, purchased the property in the 1930s and transformed the house into its present, elegant form.