The ArQuives is the largest independent LGBTQ2+ Archives in the world and, since 1973, the only LGBTQ2+ archive in Canada with a national scope.
The ArQuives was established to aid in recovering and preserving our LGBTQ2+ histories. Its mandate is to acquire, preserve, organize, and give access to information and materials in any medium, by and about LGBTQ2+ people, primarily produced in or concerning Canada; and maintain a research library, international research files, and an international collection of queer and trans periodicals.
Fun Facts
Our building at 34 Isabella is a heritage site because it is an excellent example of mid-Victorian middle-class housing with few alterations. It was built in the Italianate style, popular for residential buildings for the second half of the nineteenth century. The earliest known owner of the land was George Playter, a Chief Justice of Upper Canada and a Captain of the York Militia. He received the land from the crown in 1796. Today the building is known as the Jared Sessions House, named for the owner who originally commissioned the building.
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