History, Heritage, and Genealogy

We're proud of our rich heritage throughout the community. Whether you're a history-buff or someone digging into your genealogy, there's some excellent resources to assist with that.

The Kincardine Cemetery in the fall under a blue sky.

Cemeteries

We have three active cemeteries in the Municipality of Kincardine along with many that, while no longer active, are spaces ideal for quiet reflection or studying genealogy.

Learn more on our cemeteries webpage.

Walking and Driving Tours

Our self-guided tours are perfect for you to discover the culture and heritage of our communities at your own pace.

Printed copies of the tours are available at the Welcome Centre at 707 Queen Street during the summer season and at the Municipal Administration Centre at 1475 Concession 5 all year long. You can also use the digital versions linked below.

Bruce Township Driving Tour

Take a cruise through the former Bruce Township, a proud part of the Municipality of Kincardine. Explore the historic homes, farms, and cottages of the area while taking in the gorgeous rolling hills and scenic views.

Kincardine Walking Tours

With 7 routes to choose from, there's so much to explore! From architecture to history, you're sure to learn something new while also finding your new favourite spots and shops along the way.

Tiverton Walking Tour

The rich and history of Tiverton is proudly on display with this walking tour. Learn the amazing history behind the homes, stores, and churches in the community.

Harbour Street in Kincardine looking towards Lake Huron at Sunset

Heritage Properties and Designation

Our heritage is particularly visible throughout the Municipality in the beautiful character of the architecture.

From stately Italianate elements to beautiful stone masonry, architectural and history enthusiasts alike will take delight in many of the area's properties.

Discover the Municipality of Kincardine's heritage properties through our online Storymap.

Geneaology

If you're someone who's decided to dive into discovering your family history, your genealogical journey may lead you to the Municipality of Kincardine! There's some great resources available in the community and area for you to keep learning about your roots.

Bruce County Genealogical Society

The Bruce County Genealogical Society offers their research talent and assistance for a fee, and you can learn more on their website.

If you prefer to do your own research, the Society's library facilities are located in the reading room of the Bruce County Museum and Cultural Centre in Southampton. The reading room's resources include:

Bruce County censuses (1851 - 1911);
Bruce County cemetery transcriptions & church records;
Bruce County family histories;
Bruce County historical maps and atlases;
Bruce County land records;
Bruce County local, church and school histories;
Bruce County local directories;
Bruce County newspapers, some indexed/transcribed. Includes Chesley, Lucknow, Mildmay, Paisley, Port Elgin/ Southampton, Tara, Walkerton, Wiarton, etc - various years
Bruce County Surrogate Court records;
Bruce County Vital Statistics Registrations and Indexes;
Bruce County Women's Institute Tweedsmuir History Books Collection - local scrapbook style history books of many towns, villages and hamlets in Bruce County;
Jean Black Newspaper Clipping Collection - local records of births, marriages, obituaries, anniversaries, etc. ;
Ontario Vital Statistics Index;
Scottish Collection;
Genealogical society newsletter exchange collection;
Genealogy how-to books.

Bruce County Museum and Cultural Centre

The Bruce County Museum and Cultural Centre hosts research materials for the Bruce County Genealogical Society and the Bruce Grey Branch of the Ontario Genealogical Society.

Historic photos from the area, including from the Scougall Collection by one of Kincardine's most well-known photographers John Harnage Scougall, are also available to view and make request for purchase on the website.

If you are unable to visit the Museum in Southampton, they do offer a research services for a fee.

Bruce County Historical Society

The Kincardine Branch of the Bruce County Public Library hosts a collection of resource materials put together by local volunteers.

These resources include history books, family histories, Bruce County Census on microfilm, archived newspapers, cemetery and church records, and more.

They have free WIFI. There are computers available to use for a fee.

The Local History Room is available without an appointment during regular Library Hours.

Township of Bruce Historical Society

The Township of Bruce Historical Society has many resources to assist you in finding information about your ancestors in the Township of Bruce.

Additional Resources