Explore our Archives

The Archives & Heritage Centre is one of many charming buildings that line Bayfield’s historic Main Street. But did you know our building was first used in 1893 by Alfred Erwin, furniture maker and undertaker?

Other proprietors operated the building the 1970s when it was donated to the village and moved across the street to our present location at 20 Main Street North for use as the library and archives. We shared the space with the library until the current library was built.

Since 2013, the Bayfield Historical Society has been a cultural anchor in our village, advancing the learning and love of local history and a place for welcoming tourists and visitors. 

Our Archives & Heritage Centre maintains an extensive archival collection. Of the historical societies in Huron County, we are the only one with a dedicated space for exploring these records. Under the expert guidance of our volunteer archivist and adhering to rigorous archival standards, we collect and catalogue hundreds of documents, newspaper clippings, photographs, books, textiles and other artifacts in a safe and temperature-controlled environment, and provide reference support to researchers and members of our community.

History at your fingertips

We follow international standards for archival description and use web-based archival software to maintain a searchable database for ease of access. We also leverage digital media to make learning history exciting and engaging.

If you wish to conduct research on-site, please get in touch with our archivist ahead of time to indicate what you are looking for (it may take some time to locate the information you are seeking) and to make an appointment for your visit. 

We also welcome research requests. Because searching for information and responding requires time, there is a $20 per hour fee for this service.

Fees for reproduction or commercial purposes are quoted on a case-by-case basis.

Please contact our archivist at bhsmembers@gmail.com. Service fees are used to maintain our archival records. 

Photos and documents in the collection may not be used without the prior written consent of the Bayfield Historical Society. This also applies to the reproduction of all materials published by the Archives.

Julia Armstrong, who grew up on a farm near Bayfield, has always been interested in the area’s history and the stories told by her grandmother, Jean (Lindsay) Bell, who lived on Bayfield Terrace and was a long-time member of the Bayfield Historical Society. Julia holds a master’s degree in archival and library science from the Faculty of Information, University of Toronto.

Do you have a question or research request? Our archivist can help. Please complete and submit the form below. Please note, some requests may take longer to search than others. We will reply as soon as possible.