New History worth remembering

Belleville has a rich heritage we invite you to discover, from curated exhibits to walking tours that feature some incredible Victorian architecture.

Every February, people across Canada participate in Black History Month events and celebrations to honour the legacy and contributions of Black people in Canada and their communities. Portraits of Black History in Belleville explores the stories of Black individuals who were enslaved and brought to the area in the late 1700s by United Empire Loyalists, and those who chose to migrate to Belleville and establish roots starting in the 1800s. These stories, mostly shaped by colonial perspectives, come from local historical records and archival sources. Click to see where the exhibit will be featured across the city all month.

WALK THROUGH THE CENTURIES

Here are three fantastic self-guided tours: City Hall, Designated Historic Sites and Places of Worship. Each tour offers a glimpse into the heritage of Belleville and is the perfect way to explore the sights and sounds of our beautiful City.

The City Hall Walking Tour

Once named the Town Market Building, the Belleville City Hall was built in 1872 and features stunning stained glass windows, original bricks and wooden trusses.

This majestic historical building is one of the City’s most impressive structures and includes beautiful views overlooking the Moira River.

The public can tour City Hall anytime during regular business hours Monday-Friday 8:30 am to 4:30 pm.

Designated Historic Sites Walking Tour

Learn about Belleville’s history through the designated heritage properties located throughout the City. There are 33 designated sites included on this tour, all with their architectural history preserved.

Places of Worship Walking Tour

This self-guided tour takes a look at the many churches and sites in Belleville along Church Street and other places near the downtown core. This tour is designed with City Hall as the starting point and takes approximately two hours to visit all 20 sites.

Click here to download your copy of the Heritage Guide with all three walking tours included.

GLANMORE HOUSE

In the heart of Belleville’s historic Old East Hill neighbourhood, you can find Glanmore National Historic Site, built in 1882-1883 for wealthy banker John. Phillips and his wife Harriet Dougall Phillips. Take a step inside to see beautiful interior, restored to its 1880s appearance, and including wonderful hand-painted ceilings, ornate woodwork and reproductions of the original Wilton carpets. The exterior and surrounding grounds have also been accurately restored.

Glanmore features multiple exhibits throughout the year but their Victorian Christmas exhibit starting mid-November is an annual favourite included with regular museum admission.

For more information about Glanmore, visit www.glanmore.ca