The CDHS Archives holds primary records and photographs pertaining to the history of Cobourg and the surrounding area of Hamilton and Haldimand Townships. Some of our holdings include historical architectural photographs of Cobourg’s early residences and hotels; municipal records; and records and related material concerning a number of service clubs and association, including the Cobourg Lawn Bowling club, the Rotary Club, and the Business and Professional Women’s Club. Churches, industries and transportation are represented extensively; especially for the early railways and the boat ferries to Rochester. The area’s cultural side is reflected in documents pertaining to Victoria College, Victoria Hall, the Summer Colony, and the families of the community. Military material, maps, and much more are held by the CDHS Archives.

The Cobourg and District Historical Society was formed in 1980. For a time, the archival collection was housed at the old Cobourg Public Library, then the Municipal Armoury but the material remained inaccessible to the public.

 In 1995 the Archives moved to the C. Gordon King Building as a full tenant with the goal of allowing the public to have access to the collection.


On 11 June 2003 the CDHS Archives was appointed the official archival depository for the County of Northumberland, in accordance with the Municipal Act 2001, S.O. 2001 c.25, and on 20 February 2006 the CDHS Archives became the official repository for the Town of Cobourg’s archival material.