Canada's First Parliament

Kingston's City Hall was built with the notion that it would be situated in the capital of the country. After all, the first Parliament was housed in a vacant hospital building down the street.  MORE ...

FIRST CAPITAL HUB
WAS MARKET SQUARE

In the 1840's the centre of local commerce was in and around the Market Square, situated between King and Ontario streets, and Clarence and Johnson. You can take a virtual tour of the Market Square through history on this Web site.  MORE ...

City's First Capital Day Celebrations
June 15 Include 1841-Era Activities

Jun 8/10 > On June 15, 1841, Kingston was named the first capital of a united Canada. This June 15, Kingston celebrates its unique role in history as the 'First Capital' of United Canada with 1841-era activities scheduled from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. in Confederation Park.  MORE ...

First Capital Day Events For Students & Public

Teachers will find some interesting activities for this year's First Capital Day celebration. Choose from a variety of interactive demonstrations and activities designed for students and the general public.  MORE ...

Kingston Centre Of Sprawling Colony

On June 15, 1841, citizens watched the impressive ceremony of the opening of Canada's Parliament in the converted hospital building (shown at right) which now forms part of Kingston General Hospital. Because the building was to be only interim accommodation, Lord Sydenham arranged to buy land, now City Park, where he planned to erect the permanent Legislative Buildings.  MORE ...