The historical walking tours have returned to Guelph.
From April to October, six different tours will explore the history of the city.
The first, “Where Guelph Began” explores Guelph’s original market square area, almost 24 acres laid out by John Galt in 1827.
The second, “Downtown Walkabout” covers the historic architecture of present downtown Guelph.
The third, “The Slopes of the Speed” looks at the area close to the Speed River where many of Guelph’s most distinguished historical homes are located.
The fourth, “Altar and Hearth in Victorian Guelph” glimpses into churches and homes of the Victorian era, offered in two parts.
The fifth, “Brooklyn and the College Hill” tours one of Guelph’s early industrial sections on the south side of the Speed River, as well as the College Hill area. The tour includes some of the city’s best examples of masonry and stone carving.
The last tour, “Ward One Guelph” reveals the rich variety of historic architecture and the diversity of peoples who formed Guelph in the area, southeast of the downtown, between the Speed and Eramosa Rivers. Particular attention is devoted to residential/industrial proximity and the city’s early Italian community.
Admission is $5 and illustrated guide books will be available for $5. Special tours are possible with some advance notice.
TOUR I: “Where Guelph Began,” June 1, August 10 and September 14;
TOUR II: “Downtown Walkabout,” August 17 and September 7;
TOUR III: “Slopes of the Speed,” June 8, August 24 and September 21;
TOUR IV: “Altar and Hearth,” June 15 (upper), August 31 (lower) and September 28 (upper);
TOUR V: “Brooklyn and the College Hill,” June 22 and October 6;
TOUR VI: “Ward One Guelph,” May 25, June 29 and October 12.
For more information, contact David Lander at the Guelph Arts Council at 519.836.3280 or at programs@guelpharts.ca.
