Tucked inside a historic church at 9 Church Street in Georgetown, Ontario, the Helson Gallery is a hidden gem and a vibrant hub for the arts. Housed in the former Congregational Church, a stunning 19th-century Gothic Revival building, the gallery is part of the Halton Hills Cultural Centre—sharing space with the John Elliott Theatre and Georgetown Public Library.
A legacy of art and community
The gallery was named in honour of Frederick A. Helson, a passionate art collector who donated an exceptional collection of late-19th and early-20th-century artworks. His generous contribution laid the foundation for what is now known as the Helson Collection—a significant grouping of Canadian and European works, including pieces by members of the Group of Seven. In 2021, the collection was designated a Cultural Property by the Government of Canada, highlighting its national importance.
What you’ll find
The Helson Gallery presents rotating exhibitions throughout the year, featuring both historical and contemporary art. Visitors can explore:
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The Helson Collection: Celebrated Canadian landscapes, European scenes, and impressionist works.
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Local and Regional Artists: Regularly featured through juried exhibitions and solo shows.
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Special Exhibits: Themed exhibitions explore diverse topics—from cultural identity to environmental change.
More than just a gallery, the Helson is a place where history, creativity, and community meet. It connects visitors to Canada’s rich artistic traditions and gives local artists a meaningful platform to share their voices. Quietly powerful and deeply rooted in Georgetown’s cultural life, the Helson Gallery continues to inspire and evolve.
Who was Fred Helson?
Fred Helson led a remarkable life shaped by curiosity, service, and a deep commitment to the community he called home. The son of an electrician, farmer, teacher, and tugboat captain—Fred inherited a spirit of hard work and adaptability that defined his journey.
Fred lived in several communities throughout his early life, including Peterborough, Vancouver, and Brantford, before eventually settling in Halton Hills. He graduated from the Ontario Agricultural College (now the University of Guelph) in 1945, earning a degree in chemistry. That same year, he served in the Royal Canadian Navy during the final stages of the Second World War.
After the war, Fred began his professional career at Baxter Laboratories in Acton, where he rose to become chief chemist and operations manager for the company’s Canadian division. In 1951, he married Margaret Hoare of Georgetown, and the couple made Halton Hills their home.
Soon after, Fred made a bold career change into the field of law, and in 1957 graduated from Osgoode Hall Law School. He articled with McCarthy and McCarthy in Toronto, and later joined Georgetown’s law firm Hewson and Ord. Over the years, he partnered with numerous respected colleagues, including Terry Baines, Ken Langdon, Jack Belleghem, Ray Steele, Johan MacMillan, Allan Kogon, Dave Ashbee, and John Schaljo. The Helsons law firm is one of the most respected law firms in the area. As a recognition of his contributions to the legal profession and his community, Fred was appointed a Queen’s Council (QC).
Beyond his career, Fred Helson was known as a passionate supporter of the arts. His generous financial and personal support for local cultural initiatives played a vital role in shaping Georgetown’s creative landscape. His legacy lives on in many ways—perhaps most notably through his pivotal role in the establishment and support of the Helson Gallery, a cornerstone of arts and culture in Halton Hills.
9 Church St., Georgetown, ON L7G 2A3
Gallery Hours
- Wednesday 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Thursday 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Friday 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Saturday 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Sunday 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.