Uxbridge Music Hall

A Cultural Gem in the Heart of Town

Nestled in the heart of downtown Uxbridge, the Uxbridge Music Hall is more than just a striking architectural landmark—it’s a cherished symbol of the town’s history, resilience, and love of the arts.

Above – The Uxbridge Music Hall – CIRCA 1970. Photo courtesy of Uxbridge The Good Old Days by: J. Peter Hvidsten Page 171

The Ontario Hall

The story of the Music Hall begins in the 1850s, a time when Uxbridge was experiencing rapid growth. As the population expanded, so did the need for a central gathering place—a venue where residents could come together to conduct business, share entertainment, and enjoy community events. Around 1865, a parcel of land was leased from the Plank family and the Ontario Hall was erected on the site where the Music Hall stands today. Tragically, that first hall was destroyed by fire in 1893.

The Ontario Hall. Photo courtesy of Uxbridge The First 100 Years by: J. Peter Hvidsten. Page 48

The photo above taken from the west side of Wheler’s Pond shows the rear of the Ontario Hall which burned in 1893.

Uxbridge Music Hall

But the community’s spirit endured. On October 19, 1901, the cornerstone for a new building was laid, and just two months later, on December 19, the grand opening of the Uxbridge Music Hall was celebrated. This remarkable turnaround reflects the determination and vision of the townspeople.

The bricks used in the construction of the new Music Hall were poured in nearby Greenbank. In a charming twist of history, some local cats wandered across the wet bricks as they were drying. Today, if you look closely above the cornerstone to the right of the front door, you can still spot their paw prints preserved in the brickwork—an endearing detail that connects the present with the past.

Uxbridge Music Hall – 2020

Renowned for its exceptional acoustics, the Uxbridge Music Hall has earned a well-deserved reputation as a premier venue for live performance. From theatrical productions and concerts to community events, the hall remains a vibrant part of Uxbridge’s cultural scene.

Inside, the hall is a beautiful blend of history and function. The balcony still features the original opera chairs, framed by a stunning carved iron railing that echoes the elegance of early 20th-century design. At the centre of the hall hangs a magnificent cut-glass chandelier, approximately three feet in diameter, offering a glittering focal point and a touch of grandeur. With modern air conditioning, the hall is a comfortable and inviting space throughout the warmer months.

Whether you’re attending a play, enjoying a concert, or simply admiring the architecture, the Uxbridge Music Hall offers a unique and unforgettable experience. It stands not only as a monument to the town’s past, but also as a beacon of its ongoing commitment to arts, culture, and community.

Sources:

The Uxbridge Cultural Heritage Walking Tour 

Uxbridge Music Hall

Uxbridge – The First 100 Years by: J. Peter Hvidsten

Uxbridge The Good Old Days by: J. Peter Hvidsten