Mayholme Geneological & Historical Research Centre

The mission of the Mayholme Foundation is to promote and assist genealogical and historical research by collecting, storing and preserving historic documents and materials. They aim to bring to the public a better awareness of the role our ancestors played in the history of our community.

Mayholme Foundation Genealogical and Historical Research Centre opened its doors on Oct. 16, 2004, when Corlene Taylor set up a fund through the Niagara Community Foundation, using inheritance money from the woman she was named after, her Aunt Corelene (Beyer) Tostevin, an English teacher. Many old and rare books are available for research and more will be shelved in the future, along with papers and collections from local genealogical researchers.

The Centre is housed in the historic May Homestead, built in 1857, and is furnished to the period. The house is a relatively simple Classic Revival style, having high ceilings, and no fireplaces, as it was heated by stoves.

It has had few changes made to it since it was built, although both original chimneys have been removed. Some of the old painted floors, trim, doors and baseboards are original. The fancy wood-work at the side of the house on the open verandah appears to be original. The house still has the original front door surround of hand painted glass. Still intact in the main entrance hall, is the recently uncovered original finish painted to look like marble.

This is one of the few examples of this type of craftsmanship left in Ontario. This feature is still to be conserved. The original woodshed has been renovated into the board and batten clad research centre. Many of the furnishings have been handed down through the May family. This home has been in the May family for six generations.

The Mayholme Foundation Genealogical and Historical Research Centre is open Thursdays and Fridays, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. or by appointment.
Call ahead to schedule an appointment.