Digital Archive
Research local history and genealogy in the City of Pickering, former Township of Pickering, and beyond. Explore over 20,000 digitized newspapers, books, photos, maps, and more from the collection.
Looking for more assistance? Contact the local history department at localhistory@pickeringlibrary.ca or call 905.831.6265 ext. 6240.
Pickering's Local History
These resources provide an overview of Pickering's history, ranging from broad overviews to hyper-local community stories.
Genealogy
Check out these staff recommended sources to help you get started on family history research or to find new sources of information.
Pickering Local History Collection Digital Archive
View and download documents, photos, newspapers, and more related to the City of Pickering and the former Township of Pickering.
Archives of Ontario
The Archives of Ontario hold numerous archival collections related to Pickering's history, including the Pickering Township Fonds (F 1864.)
Ancestry
Available in-library only, use Ancestry and discover billions of records including census data, directories, photos, and more.
Microfilm and Microfiche
Use the Microfilm Scanner to preserve, convert, and read microfiche and microfilm rolls. Browse items in the Pickering Local History Collection, personal microfilm, or materials loaned through other libraries and archives. This machine is compatible with 16mm Roll Film, 35 mm Roll Film, Aperture Cards, Colour Slides, Negative Fiche, and Positive Fiche. The Microfilm Scanner is located beside the Local History display on the second floor at the Central library.
Featured
Gather & Grow
Oct 1st - Dec 20th | All day
Online Submission Form
The Pickering Museum Village Gather & Grow exhibit is looking for your favourite food stories and recipes. Participate online, here!
Education and Schools
Explore resources from this list to learn more about the history of education and schools in Pickering from 19th to late 20th century.
Parks and Trails
Learn more about the human and natural histories of Pickering’s most popular parks, trails, and conservation areas.
Women's Institutes and Tweedsmuirs
Explore the history of Ontario's Women's Institutes and the local history scrapbooks (Tweedmuirs) from W.I. branches throughout Pickering.
The Waterfront
Use these resources to learn about the natural and human history of the Lake Ontario waterfront in Pickering.
