Welcome to the Bayfield
Historical Society & Archives
The stories of the people, places and events in Bayfield are endless.
Discover our past right here on Main Street in Bayfield, Ontario, Canada.
Founded in 1965 and incorporated in 1976 as a registered not-for-profit organization, the Bayfield Historical Society (BHS) works to ensure that our history is recognized and celebrated as essential to the identity and fabric of our village. We collect, interpret and promote our history and heritage to appreciate our past, understand the present and prepare for the future.
Of the historical societies in Huron County, we are the only one with a dedicated space for preserving historical records. Our Archives & Heritage Centre, located at 20 Main Street North, houses an extensive collection of photographs, maps, newspaper clippings, prints, books and textiles.
We sometimes offer educational programs and events and partner with the community and others on historical projects.
Whenever possible, we also offer young people pursuing careers in history or the museum or archives field seasonal work. We mostly rely on generous donations to do this and apply for government funding such as the Young Canada Works and Canada Summer Job Grants.
The Bayfield Historical Society is a proud member of the Ontario Historical Society.
Get involved!
Scroll down to discover how members, volunteers and donors help advance our work and services that keep our history alive.
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Join
Becoming a member is a fantastic way to learn about our history and connect with your community.
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Volunteer
Volunteers are the heart of our organization and are integral to our programs and services.
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Donate
Investing in our history helps make our past accessible to all and ensures our legacy continues for generations.
Event calendar.
Discover what’s happening!
Throughout the summer, we are open Wednesday through Sunday, 10:00am to 4:30pm. We are also open by appointment.
Check our calendar often for special event notices.
20 Main St. N., PO Box 161, Bayfield, Ontario N0M 1G0
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The Archives & Heritage Centre is at 20 Main St. N. (next to the public library).
Our summer schedule starts June 25, 2025 and continues through Labour Day. The Centre is open Wednesday through Sunday, 10AM - 4:30PM.
Between September and June, we are open by appointment only. Please email bhsmembers@gmail.com to make arrangements.
We accept e-transfers at etransfers.bhs@gmail.com for donations, memberships and special orders. In the comments section of the transfer, please enter your name and address, and items you are paying for. Don't forget to send your password.
Land Acknowledgement
The Bayfield Historical Society (BHS) operates on the lands surrendered through the Huron Tract Treaty(#29) of 1827, where Anishinabek people remain and govern themselves on their reserved and unceded lands at Kettle and Stony Point (Wiiwkwedong: Kikonong & Aazhoodenaang), Sarnia (Aamjiwnaang) First Nation, and Walpole Island (Bkejwanong). In addition to these Huron Tract Treaty signatories, BHS is located near the self-governing Chippewas of Saugeen Ojibway First Nation at Saugeen and Nawash, and the Chippewa-Munsee-Oneida First Nations located on and near the Thames River (Deshkan Ziibing).
These First Nations have an unbroken historical and legal right to govern themselves on their lands and waters, and to be Canadian citizens.
We are grateful to live and work here with the First Nations and with all Indigenous People who reside on this Sacred Land (Gtchitwaa kiing).
This statement has been written in collaboration with a member of the Kettle and Stony Point First Nation and approved by the Bayfield Historical Society Board of Directors.