Historic photographs have been part of the Richmond Hill Public Library’s collection since the creation of the Local History Room in the 1970s by then Chief Librarian Patricia Hart. These photographs, documenting the development of Richmond Hill from a sleepy village in the 1850s to a thriving town in the 21st century, have been donated by Richmond Hill residents who have generously shared the contents of their family albums through the years. Some residents, such as Jerry Smith, by profession a gifted watchmaker, were such fine amateur photographers that their images of people and town life hold a wealth of information about the community’s past. As well, the Liberal newspaper has donated file photos from the 1960s to the 1980s which has enriched the collection with more contemporary images. The photographs in this collection are held in the Local History Room of the Richmond Hill Public Library, Central Branch.

The Library thanks all of those who have contributed these images, and would like to encourage others who may have photographs to contribute to contact the Library.

Because of the way the photos were acquired, Library staff has sometimes had to make “best guesses” in identifying locations or time periods. If any resident can add to the information, correct it in any way, or identify individuals depicted in group photos, the Library welcomes all input to make the information presented here as complete and accurate as possible.

The database can be searched by subject or personal name, or browsed by decade.

This electronic finding aid to the local historical photos of Richmond Hill is provided courtesy of the Richmond Hill Public Library.