For over 100 years, the Ontario Reformatory/Guelph Correctional Centre was imbedded in lives of the people of Guelph. The exhibition shares stories from within the institution, addressing misconceptions, propaganda, and myths – some perpetuated by the institution itself and recounted in public archives.

Officially opened in 1911, the Ontario Reformatory evolved to be many things, including the Guelph Correctional Centre from 1972 until its decommission in 2003. The historical record of the property and institution is vast and only partially preserved. There are more stories to tell and many lesser-known aspects of the history to explore.

The reformatory was a place of duality: from reform intentions, which aimed to improve the lives of those who were incarcerated, to being one of Canada’s most notorious prisons. Despite the lack of humanity within the institution, some inmates and staff held hope, creativity, and a vision for life beyond the cell walls.

The history of the Ontario Reformatory/Guelph Correctional Centre is complex and uncomfortable. Guest curated by P. Brian Skerrett, “Darkness and Light: Inside the Ontario Reformatory” aims to share historical truths as lessons from the past that can inform our actions today and help us to shape a better tomorrow.

Left to right (details): Soldiers in the Billiards Room at Speedwell Military Convalescent Hospital, circa 1919 (Guelph Museums 1978.6.4); Painting created in 1985 by John J. Anishinabe, a member of the Native Sons (Courtesy: Janny Nieuwland); Inmates riot in protest of the living conditions at the Ontario Reformatory, 1952 (Guelph Museums 2014.1.1); “Hope” banner created by Reformatory inmates (Courtesy: Connie Shaw); Watching brook trout in a stream at the Ontario Reformatory (stonework by inmate labour), 1925 (Archives Ontario AO # B117492)