The Sharon Temple National Historic Site and Museum is proud to have eight heritage buildings on our grounds. Each unique building has its own history that contributes to the narrative of our Site and tells the story of the formation of East Gwillimbury, the Children of Peace, its members and their role in establishing democracy in Canada..
The Sharon Temple is a 19th century architectural masterpiece built by the Children of Peace and designed by David Willson, a charismatic leader and politician in Upper Canada. His relationship with William Lyon Mackenzie inspired members of Sharon to fight for responsible government in the 1837 Rebellion of Upper Canada.
The Temple’s symmetry on all sides welcomes visitors from all four corners of the earth. Inside, the tiered seating provided guests, no matter where they sat, with an unobstructed view. Almost 300 people could sit inside on the first floor. The second storey was a musicians’ gallery and was accessed by the curved staircase. The top tier, or cupola, provides light and excellent acoustic qualities inside the space.

The Temple was used 15 times a year for celebrations, concerts, feasts, and community giving. The Children of Peace combined unique architecture with distinctive artistic works, unparalleled musical tradition, and a passion for political reform that made them infamous. Illumination, an event we continue to hold every September, brings people from all over to see the Temple.
The striking architectural beauty invites visitors in and the stories of this innovative community stay with them forever.