Archives

The research room is currently open by appointment only. To make an appointment or to forward a research request, please email us at archives@regionofwaterloo.ca and we will do our best to assist you.

The Region of Waterloo Archives was established in 1990 when a Corporate Archives policy was approved by Regional Council. The Archives serves as a research centre, assisting a variety of researchers including students, family historians, authors and academics. Everyone is welcome to use the Archives. 

The Archives is the official home of records created by the:

  • County of Waterloo (1829 to 1972)
  • Region of Waterloo (1973 to present)
  • Township of Woolwich (1851 to present)
  • Town of Elmira (1886 to 1972)
  • Waterloo Regional Police Service (1851-present)
  • Related organizations and individuals

The Archives exists to acquire and preserve records of archival value, provide access to the records, and support the development of the archival community in the Region.

Can I access the Archives?

The research room is currently open by appointment only. To make an appointment or to forward a research request, please email us at archives@regionofwaterloo.ca and we will do our best to assist you.

For more information, please visit the Region of Waterloo's COVID-19 page.

The Archivist is available to discuss research topics, provide possible archival sources, give instruction in searching and provide information on the preservation of records and archival practices.

There is no charge to use the Archives. However, there are fees for photocopies, microfilm copies, copies of photographs and for providing detailed assistance with research inquiries. The Archives adheres to:

In accordance with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, accessible formats of archival records are made available whenever possible.

Can I search the Archives online?

Yes. Please use the database Archives Online to search the Archives. Archives Online allows researchers to:

  • Browse holdings
  • Search for archival records by keyword
  • Search histories of municipalities, agencies, boards and commissions
  • View popular searches
  • View digital copies of archival records
  • View online exhibits
  • Make comments or link to related material
  • Share records through social media

The development of Archives Online was made possible by funding from the Museum Assistance Program, Department of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages.

For information on the Waterloo County House of Industry and Refuge, visit the Wilfrid Laurier University Social Innovation Research Group's virtual museum exhibit Waterloo House of Refuge.

Fee schedule

 Service  Cost
 Photocopies  20 cents a page
 CD-ROMS  $10 each 
 Long Distance Research Services  $7.50/15 minutes
Hours of Operation 

The research room is currently open by appointment only. To make an appointment or to forward a research request, please email us at archives@regionofwaterloo.ca and we will do our best to assist you.

Job Opportunities

The Archives occasionally has job opportunities posted on the Careers page of the Region's web site.

Summer student positions are usually posted at the end of April and in early May. We thank all applicants in advance; we will only contact applicants selected for an interview.

Professional affiliations 
Social Media

You can follow us and view our Archives content on the following sites:

  • Archeion: Archives Association of Ontario
  • Facebook: Region of Waterloo Museums & Archives page
  • Historypin: photographs of County of Waterloo buildings
  • Archive-It: archived crawls of Regional web sites and social media sites

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