To be a Guelphite

Weekly historic walking tours explore landmarks that have shaped Guelph culture

Every city has its history and stories; some may even have a strong, definite culture. Guelph has culture that can never be denied. However, unlike many university-towns, Guelph culture envelopes, not excludes, the University. Studying at the University of Guelph steeps each student in this unique culture, and each student graduates a Guelphite. The comradeships, the rivalries, the traditions, and the festivals are defining aspects of a community evolved over many years.

What is a Guelphite? A ‘Guelphite’ is a resident of Guelph; one who may jaywalk Gordon continuously, picnic in the Arboretum, paint Old Jeremiah, visit the Farmers’ Market, eat ice cream from The Boathouse, see plays in the River Run Center, portage up Speed River, the list goes on.  Regardless of how in-tune residents are with Guelph culture, many old buildings sit nameless or hold names long forgotten. Essential in sustaining the Guelphite culture is understanding the very roots of its heritage.

Guelph Arts Council is the central force for arts and culture in Guelph and the Wellington County. Managed through a Board of Directors, the Guelph Arts Council strives to stimulate and develop a rich cultural life in the community. The Council organizes various resources and initiatives championed by employees and numerous volunteers.

Historical walking tours, hosted by volunteers from the Guelph Arts Council from April to October, share the city’s great stories.  A series of six guided tours trace history through the streets of Guelph. Each tour travels a different route, providing various snapshots of Guelph’s culture saturated history. Beginning at the Where Guelph Began tour, participants explore the original market area, learning forgotten tales of the familiar buildings. Ever wonder who Massey actually was? Or why there’s a random arch on Johnston Green – besides for graduation photos?  Every Sunday illustrates another chapter of the historical foundation of Guelph. Tours depart at 2:00pm, however the starting location is dependent on the tour. For a full schedule and description of the tours please visit: guelpharts.ca.

History has cultivated Guelphites, leaving lasting impressions on not only the culture, but the city itself. In weekly historic walking tours, Guelph Arts Council delves into the historic, humorous, and surprising stories behind the iconic, and little known landmarks of our city.