Hamilton Museum of Steam & Technology National Historic SiteDoors Open Hamilton

  • Kid-friendly
  • National Historic Site (Canada)
  • Parking
  • Self-guided tours available
  • Site is protected by the Ontario Heritage Trust
  • Washrooms
  • Photography allowed
  • Rental opportunities
Hamilton Museum of Steam & Technology National Historic Site

Located on the site of the Hamilton Waterworks complex, this museum features two 13.7-metre (45-foot) steam engines which pumped clean drinking water from 1859 to 1910. Built in Dundas, these steam engines are the oldest of this type still standing in North America. Join us for self-guided tour of the Boilerhouse, Pumphouse and Woodshed.

The Hamilton Museum of Steam & Technology is located in Hamilton’s first public waterworks — the only surviving intact mid-19th-century waterworks in North America. Its major buildings have all been preserved — the pumphouse, boilerhouse, chimney and woodshed. The pumphouse contains two 70-ton beam engines — the oldest in Canada in their original location. The grand scale and detail of the complex reflect a civic pride characteristic of mid-19th century Hamilton. The pumphouse and boilerhouse were built of rusticated limestone. Note the classical details and bull’s-eye windows. The 46-metre (150-foot) chimney was constructed with a brick shaft on a stone pedestal. This is a living museum that interprets the history of 19th-century Victorian waterworks and steam engine technology. It became a National Historic Site in 1977. During Digital Doors Open, watch the video below to see the life of Canada’s early industrial revolution. Or explore the site through this informative virtual tour.

Architecture

Year built: 1859
Building type:Historical landmarkMuseum
Architect: Thomas Coltrin Keefer
Architectural style:ItalianateRenaissance revivalVictorian

Dates/hours open

May 02, 10:00am - May 03, 04:00pm

Saturday and Sunday: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.