Alderlea, meaning meadow of Alder trees, is an exceptionally well-preserved heritage building, built in 1867 at the height of the Victorian era. It is one of the finest examples of Italianate villa architecture in Ontario. The property also holds tremendous landmark status on an elevated terrace... overlooking Gage Park.

Alderlea's original owner was Kenneth Chisholm, one of Brampton's most important citizens. Chisholm was a member of the provincial legislature and owner of several successful businesses, among them a dry goods store and sandstone quarry at the forks of the Credit.

In 1944 the Royal Canadian Legion purchased Alderlea, knowing that they would need expanded facilities following the end of the Second World War. In 1947 the Legion expanded their facility by creating a large 2-storey addition to the house. In 2003 the City of Brampton purchased the house, and is currently developing plans to restore this Brampton landmark.

For many years Brampton survived without a park. Public celebrations and large gatherings were either held at the Fair Grounds on Elliott Street or on the Athletic Grounds at Rosalea Park, but both were considered far from the centre of town and lacked the shade of trees. The cemetery also had a... park function.

In 1902, the Town of Brampton purchased 2.4 acres from the grounds of the Chisholm estate, Alderlea. That same year William J. Gage purchased 3 ¼ acres, part of the Elliott estate that stood immediately to the north of Alderlea. He presented 1.7 acres of the property to be added to the proposed park. Brampton residents who generously supported the need for a park collected $1,054.00 so that extra land could be purchased to complete the area.

A park committee consisting of members of the town council was appointed. Many trees were removed and gravelled walkways prepared. Furthermore, all underbrush was removed and the land was levelled and seeded. W.J. Gage opened the park on Dominion Day (Canada Day) 1903.

Over the following years a bandstand was erected and the Horticultural Society volunteered to properly label all the trees for the information of the general public. In 1955 the Kinsmen’s Club of Brampton added a wading pool and in 1971 Brampton received the Flower Fountain from Benson and Hedges Tobacco Company. Gage Park is a well-used park and a truly unique part of Brampton.

Gaze upon our historic architecture. Tread the very path walked upon by Bramptonians more than a century ago. Journey through time and experience Brampton’s past.

The City of Brampton has inherited a rich legacy of cultural heritage resources. Much of Brampton's heritage is linked to its... historical roots as the “Flowertown of Canada” which has been revived and re-established under the City’s Flower City Strategy. Another important piece of Brampton's history is its past role as the capital or county seat of the former Peel County.

This bell was installed in the clock tower of the Dominion Building located at 8 Queen Street East in 1913. John Taylor and Co. of Loughborough, Leicestershire England, cast the bell. The bell was removed from the clock tower, restored and installed at this location by the Benson and Hedges... Tobacco Company as part of the company’s contribution to the centennial celebration of the Town of Brampton, 1873 – 1973.

"The Veteran was carved in 2005 from the trunk of a dying red oak that had stood for over a century. It was created to mark the National Year of the Veteran.

The statue is modelled on Bill Bettridge, a decorated veteran of the Second World War and survivor of Operation Overlord, the D-Day... landings in Normandy, France that lead to the end of the war. It stands in silent tribute to the many men and women of Brampton who served and continue to serve our nation in wars, conflicts, and peacekeeping missions around the world so that we may live in freedom and peace.

The Veteran looks toward the Brampton Cenotaph, a reminder to all of Brampton’s citizens that we have a duty to honour the service, sacrifice, and memory of all veterans. Artist: Jim Menken"