Since 1984, the Windsor’s Community Archives has been acquiring, preserving and making available historic records of the City of Windsor, its boards and commissions. The archives contain over 7,500 photographs and 20,000 sets of architectural drawings, maps and plans available for viewing by customers. Records date back to the late 1700’s, although records for Windsor start in 1854, the year Windsor was incorporated as a village. Documentation on communities that became part of Windsor (Ford City/East Windsor, Ojibway, Riverside, Sandwich, Walkerville and the Townships of Sandwich East, West and South) are included and available for viewing. The multi-media collection includes paper documents (journals, letters, diaries), posters, audio tapes and ephemera.
The Archives also holds a number of private collections such as the W.F. Herman Papers, Windsor Local Council of Women and Papers of Green Shield Prepaid Services Incorporated.

Everyone is welcome to research the Archives’ holdings, which cannot be loaned, but may be used in the Archives’ Reading Room. Requests have ranged from finding architectural drawings, to researching war criminals, to identifying an item, to researching old maps to finding sewer connections. What ever you may be in search of, there are guides and indexes to lead you through the collections and friendly, helpful staff waiting to assist with your questions. Some access restrictions may apply to certain records in order to protect privacy. Photocopying is available for most documents. Charges apply for reprographic services. To make the most of your visit, we ask that you come with paper and a pencil.

Windsor’s Community Archives are now located at 85 Pitt Street East
There are NO public open hours and visits to the archives is by appointment only.
Call 519-255-6770 x 4414 to arrange an appointment.