Formerly known as the "Silverton Gallery" and originally the Silverton Schoolhouse, this incredible historic building remains a significant heritage site in the Village of Silverton.

The Village of Silverton began as a camp to serve the rich mines located on the southern slope of Idaho Mountain, and was eventually named after the famous mining town in Colorado, Silverton. By the early 1890’s lots were being sold and the population grew to 500 people, with four hotels, three general stores and a newspaper called the Silvertonian.

As people flocked to exploit the Slocan Valley ore mines, the population of children also swelled. Nearing the end of WW1, the old village schoolhouse was too small and saw the construction of the two-storied Silverton School.

This striking two-classroom school taught local children from grades one to six until the 1970’s. A high school was also located in the back of the building. One can still find original features of the building such as the bell and the bell tower.

From 1977-1996, the east side of the ground floor housed Silverton’s Fire Department. The Silverton Historical Society has also made it’s home in this building.

After extensive renovations in the early 1980’s the building was renamed the Silverton Galley.

Since this time, the building has been used as the village’s premier community meeting place, cultural centre, workshop space, public art gallery, and music venue.

Although owned by the Village of Silverton, the building has been managed by The Slocan Lake Arts Council, a non-profit organization, since the early 80’s. It’s popularity, as a venue, confirms the importance this social and historical icon in the Slocan Valley.

As of July 1, 2018, the building has completed a fire suppression and HVAC upgrade with interior improvements occurring on an ongoing basis.

Click here for more on our building’s history.

To learn more about the fascinating history of our building, click here.