A workers stands on top of a steel post in a construction site.
A worker stands atop a steel post during the construction of City Hall in 1936. S1936.5.2.4.

Despite the apparent disregard for health and safety, this worker was one of many who were busy building the new City Hall building from 1936-1937.  

It took years for City Council to agree to the funds needed to build new offices. The previous City offices, also at the corner of Church and James, were in the former home of Senator James Rea Benson. It had served in that capacity since staff moved from the crowded Lincoln County Court House in 1878.   

Designed by local architect Robert Macbeth, and built of Queenston limestone, the new City Hall is built in the monumental style typical of 1930s government buildings. Its combination of classical, art deco, and modern architecture elements makes it an imposing and important focal point of civic life in St. Catharines. 

A Time for Celebration

It took City Council years to dedicate funds needed to build a new building to house council, staff, and service delivery. At every opportunity, the building committee invited the public to join in celebrating important milestones from the sod-turning in 1936 to the official opening in 1937.

4 people stand posed for a photograph. The person second from the left is holding a small shovel and a hole in the ground is visible in front of the group. They are dressed formally in traditional clothes.
The mayor, members of council, and members of the building committee pose for a photograph at the sod-turning in 1936. S1936.5.1.1.
A person holds a small trowel above a large corner stone which reads A.D. 1936. A large crowd is assembled behind.
Alderman Herman Rogers laid the cornerstone in 1936. S1936.5.2.1.
A large group is gathered on the front lawn of a large building.
A crowd and bands joined officials as City Hall was declared open in 1937. S1937.26.1.3.

There’s More to the Story

Visit the installations in-person at the addresses listed or navigate using the coordinates marked with Purple Pins on the History InSite map or navigate the installation online using the History Pin map.

About History InSite

A permanent, site specific installation, History InSite juxtaposes historical photographs with modern streetscapes by presenting the photo in, or close to, the place which it was taken.

St. Catharines has a rich photographic history and when compared to the changing streetscapes around the City, that history becomes much more meaningful, poignant, and relevant to our modern eyes.

History InSite is presented by the St. Catharines Museum & Welland Canals Centre.

Graffiti Report

If you spot any graffiti on our purple History InSite signs, please send us a message and photo via email museum@stcatharines.ca.