City Hall

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Welcome to the City of St. Catharines, the largest municipality in the Niagara Region. From authentic wine and culinary experiences to unique festivals and cultural events including live music, theatre and sporting events, St. Catharines is at the heart of it all.

Built on the site of the previous City Hall, this building was officially opened in August 1937 and was a hallmark of what was hailed as the dawn of a new era. The previous building, known as Benson House, was a former home that had been used as a temporary City Hall. The Old Courthouse was originally built to house only the municipal offices for St. Catharines, however, in 1862 the regional offices also took up residence. The building was then far too full to house both the regional and municipal offices; so St. Catharines purchased the Benson House for use as the town hall.

The home underwent significant renovations and the horse stables located on the grounds were converted into the police station. Sold to St. Catharines in 1876 by James Benson, a Senator in the first parliament of Canada, Benson House was originally intended to be used for a short time. In fact, Benson House was used for over thirty years until the new City Hall was constructed. This Building originally accommodated all city departments, including a police station and a jail in the basement.

Today, St. Catharines City Hall is the administrative hub for the city. With its artistic façade and bowling green lawn, City Hall is a striking architectural focal point of the city’s core.