Built in 1872-73 by architect John D. Evans (the builder was John Forin) as Belleville’s market building and town hall, this attractive structure – with its tall clock tower – has dominated the downtown landscape for over 140 years. Architect Bill White’s imaginative renovations (1987-88) preserved many original interior architectural features, while adding 929 square metres (10,000 square feet) of space.

Tell us your story about this site

This library has extensive collections, digitization services, computer labs, an art gallery, meeting rooms and more. As of 2016, the community archives are also located here. The old library’s 1909 stained-glass window is prominently displayed in the new building. During Doors Open, visitors will have an opportunity to visit some of the staff areas normally off limits to patrons.

Tell us your story about this site

The Shriners, who are renowned for participating in community events, are recognized by children around the world. The Belleville Shrine Club took possession of this building in 1946. Prior to that, it was a stately private home, built in 1880. The building still preserves much of its original character, with a new addition added in 1959.

Tell us your story about this site

The Community Archives of Belleville and Hastings County is Ontario's newest archive facility, opened in 2016. A collaborative project, it was built as a partnership between the City of Belleville, the County of Hastings and the Hastings County Historical Society. The archives preserve the history of the community through records of local governments, individuals, families, businesses and organizations.

Tell us your story about this site

The Corby Park Rose Garden is in the old east village in Belleville, a great area for exploring heritage homes and a few blocks from the Bay of Quinte. The garden has a stunning water fountain and at the centre of it all, you get a beautiful view of the entire garden – perfect for a family outing or wedding.

Tell us your story about this site

The CORE was built in 1851. In 1858, it was used as a Mechanics Institute. In 1909, Henry Corby bought the building and gave to the City of Belleville for use as a library. It was sold in 2006 and is now used as a church and cultural centre.

Tell us your story about this site

This 1824 stone building was once the home and bakery of Henry Corby (the remains of the bakery are still visible in the basement). The foundation and large open hearth are original. A third storey was added in about 1883 and the present brick façade in 1891. The original wood and tin ceiling is still visible on the store level.

Tell us your story about this site

Glanmore is an excellent example of Second Empire architecture in Canada. The home was built in 1883 for banker J.P.C. Phillips. Interiors feature ornate frescoed ceilings, suspended staircases and intricate woodwork. Learn about the restoration of this historical house, climb part of the servant's staircase, and discover hidden secrets found during past restoration projects.

Tell us your story about this site

Henry Corby Sr. built this home in 1875 and moved here from a large stone house at the northeast corner of Bridge Street East and George Street. He then proceeded to build a house next door, at the corner of William Street and Bridge Street East, for his daughter and her husband.

Tell us your story about this site

This paved and lit trail is 1.6 kilometres long (1 mile), travelling along the Moira River behind the historical downtown. Along this trail is a footbridge built in the early 1800s. To the north, it connects to the 5.2-kilometre (3-mile) Riverside Trail. To the south, it connects to the Zwicks Trail westward and the Kiwanis Bayshore Trail eastward.

Tell us your story about this site

This building was the office for Harry Corby and the operations of Corby Distilleries. It has a dressed stone lower storey designed in the Italian Renaissance, with a carriageway through the centre. In 1891, Harry added stone window pediments and carved classical detail in high Victorian fashion.

Tell us your story about this site

Henry Corby founded Corbyville in the early 1830s and opened a bakery. But, by 1859, a distillery was incorporated (called Alma Mills for his late wife) and quickly eclipsed the mill operations. Now, the building has been revitalized as a local brewery. Signal Beer will be keeping the heritage of these buildings alive with great beer and world-class entertainment.

Tell us your story about this site

The Parish of St. Thomas' was established in Belleville in 1818 when the first church was consecrated by Charles Stewart, the second Lord Bishop of Quebec. The first St. Thomas' church was a brick structure completed in the 1820s. It is now a traditional Norman-style church, joined to a modern, glass-enveloped Parish Centre. The church is beautifully illuminated by skylights.

Tell us your story about this site