Our History

Operating since the 1830s, the Cambridge Farmers’ Market is one of the oldest in Canada.

While the exact date of its founding is unknown, the market originally operated along the east bank of the Grand River in the Township of Galt (now part of the City of Cambridge). This bustling area was home to the general store, taverns, mills, and the original village market.

Finding a Permanent Home

By the mid-1800s, the market moved closer to what is now Cambridge City Hall. Initially, vegetables were sold in open air, while the meat market operated from within Township Hall. In 1856, the local public school was converted into a vegetable and poultry market, and by 1858, Galt’s Town Hall officially became the Market House, with its lower level dedicated to butchers and the meat trade.

In the late 1880s, the market shifted to its current location at Dickson and Ainslie Streets, on land purchased by the Town. The vegetable and poultry vendors moved in immediately, while the meat vendors stayed at Town Hall until 1896 when a two-storey addition was built to house all market operations under one roof.

Building the Market We Know Today

The original one-storey market building was constructed in 1887 by mason William Fulton. In 1896, a two-storey addition was designed by local architect Fred Mellish and built by mason, W. Edmonds along with carpenters W and F.A. Scott.

The second floor of the building has served many purposes over the years: it housed the Galt Public Library until 1905, became a rehearsal space for the Galt Kiltie Band starting in 1907, and later supported the Galt Kiwanis Youth Band from 1949 to 1972. By 1978, it was converted into municipal office space.

Preserving a Community Landmark

The market building has faced challenges over time, including weather damage, flooding, and daily wear and tear. The flood of 1974 caused more than $35,000 in damages, temporarily closing the indoor market for several months. Major renovations in 1992 and again in 2019 ensured the building remained structurally sound and compliant with modern health standards. It was officially designated as a heritage property under the Ontario Heritage Act in 1984.

The People Behind the Market

The heart of the market is its people: our dedicated vendors. Some have been with us for more than 50 years, setting up in all kinds of weather, often arriving before dawn. The Cambridge Farmers’ Market is home to 26 year-round vendors and 30 seasonal vendors, serving an average of 35,000 shopper visits annually during peak season. Their commitment and community spirit are what make the market a true local gem.