Canadian Landmarks: Victoria Hall

Victoria Hall - Cobourg
Photo Credit: Chris Creamer.

Victoria Hall has presided over the main street of Cobourg, Ontario for almost 150 years. In the 1850s, Cobourg's leading citizens decided to express their confidence in the future of Cobourg by building themselves a fine town hall. They held a design competition which the was won by the famous architect, Kivas Tully. In 1856 the cornerstone was laid by Sir Allan MacNab and construction was completed in 1860.

It was in that year that Edward, the young Prince of Wales and the future King Edward VII, came to Cobourg during his Canadian tour of 1860. On September 6th he officially opened Victoria Hall which was named for his mother, Queen Victoria. Much to the delight of the local citizenry, he remained for the Grand Ball and midnight supper.

The foyer, the deep-well courtroom, the two grand staircases and the Concert Hall are the most impressive areas. The Courtroom is modeled on that of the Old Bailey in London's criminal courts and is one of the few remaining deepwell courtrooms in Canada. It was still in use until very recently.

The Concert Hall is the magnificent core of Victoria Hall, featuring a beautiful painted ceiling. The Art Gallery of Northumberland is also housed within the hall's galleries.
This year Cobourg celebrates the 150th anniversary of Victoria Hall, with a Grand Ball planned to honour the event on May 29th 2010. Here's to the continued success of this regal landmark!

This Canadian landmark was nominated by Queen Victoria's namesake & proud Cobourg resident Vicky from soapstar.

Copyright 2010 Oh Canada Team