City of Ottawa Archives, Rideau Branch

The North Gower Town Hall was erected in 1876 by John A. Eastman at a total cost of $2,500. It was the first municipal building of North Gower Township and the centre of local administration and many community events until new township offices opened in 1967. It is a fine example of a modest type of town hall, interesting both historically and architecturally – the latter one-storey and brick-faced, with pleasing proportions and careful detailing and with an unusual cupola.

Restored to serve as the Rideau Township Archives, it was among the first group of township heritage buildings designated under the Ontario Heritage Act. The unveiling of the building’s plaque took place on 16 July 1980. The current exhibition features the initial revitalization of the hall in the 1980s and the current interior revitalization intended to make more usable space for the ever-growing archival collection and library of local history interest.

Location and contact

Rideau Archives

In-person visiting hours

*Follow building health protocols.

  • Saturday, June 3 2023
    10am to 4pm
  • Sunday, June 4 2023
    10am to 4pm

Virtual and 3D Tours

This building does not offer virtual or 3D tours.

  • The exterior of a small red brick building hall with green doors and shudders and a white roof.
    Exterior of Rideau Archives Branch. Photo by Owen Cooke.
  • Two children have a tea party outside a small hall, probably shortly after the Second World War.
    Exterior of North Gower Township Hall, photo by Gladys McCurdy.
  • Metal Township of Rideau Heritage Plaque against a red brick wall.
    Township of Rideau Heritage Plaque. Photo by Owen Cooke.
  • Antique wood table and chairs sit surrounded by full bookshelves.
    Rideau Archives reading room. Photo by Owen Cooke.
  • The exterior of a small red brick building hall with green doors and shudders and a white roof.
    Exterior of Rideau Archives Branch. Photo by Owen Cooke.
  • Two children have a tea party outside a small hall, probably shortly after the Second World War.
    Exterior of North Gower Township Hall, photo by Gladys McCurdy.
  • Metal Township of Rideau Heritage Plaque against a red brick wall.
    Township of Rideau Heritage Plaque. Photo by Owen Cooke.
  • Antique wood table and chairs sit surrounded by full bookshelves.
    Rideau Archives reading room. Photo by Owen Cooke.

Architecture

Architect/Builder on record
John A. Eastman
Construction date or date range
1876
Category
Museums, archives and historic sites

Amenities and features

  • New participant building
  • Public washrooms
  • Accessible access
  • Free parking
  • Bike parking
  • Family friendly