Historic Preservation Program
Ontario's award winning Historic Preservation Program is administered by the Advanced Planning Division. The program seeks to preserve & protect the significant architectural, historical, & cultural resources, which reflect Ontario’s unique character & heritage.
Founded by George and W.B. Chaffey in 1882, Ontario was envisioned to be a Model Irrigation Colony. In 1903, Ontario officially became "The Model Colony" through an Act of Congress and a model presented at the St. Louis World’s Fair in 1904.
The preservation of our historic places ensures that the rich heritage, tradition & character of "The Model Colony," molded over more than a century, will proudly live on.
Calendar: Historic Preservation's Mid-Year Calendar [PDF]
Awards: 2012 Model Colony Awards Booklet [PDF]