2026 Ontario Heritage Conference Impact Summary
Updated: Jul 23
Forged in Steel, Steeped in History highlighted Hamilton’s industrial legacy and our evolving identity. The conference program focused on the adaptive reuse of industrial heritage properties and landscapes; with an emphasis on sustainability, conservation, cultural continuity and innovative design.
The event brought together volunteer members of municipal heritage committees, heritage professionals, municipal representatives, architects, planners, conservation specialists and heritage advocates
Conference Data
3 Days (June 18 – 20, 2026)
253 Registrants from across the province
10 Heritage Sites & Venues
Magnolia Hall
Empire Times Bld.
LIUNA Station
Workers Arts and Heritage Centre
The Coppley Buildings
Playhouse Cinema
The Cotton Factory
Hamilton Museum of Steam & Technology
Beach Canal Lighthouse and Lightkeeper’s Cottage
Hamilton Craft Studios
65 Moderators, Guest Speakers and Presenters who shared their knowledge and expertise.
19 Sessions and Tours offered
14 Guided Walking & Bus Tours
James St. N. and the Coppley Buildings
Workers Arts & Heritage and the North-End Industrial Trail
Central Neighbourhood: Adaptive Reuse of Industrial Properties
The Cotton Factory
Hamilton’s Waterfront & the 1859 Waterworks
22 Vendors & Organizations in our Friday Marketplace at Liuna Station
10 Trades in our Saturday Traditional Trades Fair at the Cotton Factory
8 Civic Museums available for attendees to visit for free during the conference – Thank you to Hamilton Civic Museums!
8 Local food vendors who kept everyone well fed with their delicious offerings. Food Service quantities included:
288 – Friday Breakfast, Lunch & Breaks
200 – Friday Gala Dinner
190 – Saturday Breakfast & Lunch
54 unclaimed meals from the conference were shared with those in need in our community.
40+ Volunteers who made the conference a success!
25 Conference Sponsors. Without their support, this conference would not have been possible.
Thank you to everyone who came out!
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