Heritage Hunt
MAY 22 TO OCTOBER 11
The Archives
During most of the year, the Archives is open for visits and tours but opening hours vary depending on season and availability of summer staff for tours. During the winter months (normally November to March) the Archives is open by appointment only for research needs. If in doubt please call ahead to ascertain current opening hours or check our Facebook page.
Housed in the Historic Jail, The Charlotte County Archives’ rich and varied collection reflects the diversity, experience, and achievement of Charlotte County people. The collections date to the 18th century and include thousands of original documents reflecting various individuals, groups, and businesses, who have contributed to our social, cultural, economic, and political life.
Visitors to the archives have access to more than 25,000 photographic images dating from the 1850s, manuscripts and theses, Charlotte County newspapers, maps and architectural drawings, letters, diaries and ships-logs. Our reference room includes family histories, a small research library and microfilm readers.
Tours
We hope to resume offering daily tours of these historic buildings in 2021. Until then, the Archives and Jail will be open by appointment only for research needs.
The Old Charlotte County Gaol was constructed in 1832 of grey granite blocks, 2.5 feet thick. The old jail is a solid square building with austere jail cells in active use until 1979. Each cell is completely closed in by granite blocks except for a very narrow iron door, creating an atmospheric tour site and doubtless a claustrophobic experience for prisoners. Additional resource material can be found via this external site link.
The Charlotte County Courthouse, a light-filled provincial and national heritage site, provides a markedly different experience from the jail. Designed by Thomas Berry and built in 1840, this classical-revival style courthouse is the best-preserved example of mid-nineteenth century Maritime Courthouses. In the early years of its history, the Courthouse was the focal point for community activities such as elections, fairs, parades, and official visits. It was the oldest courthouse in continuous use until 2017.
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