About Schneider Haus

Schneider Haus National Historic Site is a vibrant community museum and cultural landmark located in downtown Kitchener, Ontario. Built in 1816 by early Pennsylvania-German Mennonite settlers, it is the city's oldest surviving home and a designated National Historic Site of Canada. Once the homestead of Joseph Schneider and his family, the Haus has been carefully restored and furnished to reflect 19th-century pioneer life, offering visitors an authentic glimpse into the region's early history. Today, Schneider Haus is a dynamic cultural space. The site features five historic outbuildings, two heritage gardens, hands-on discovery spaces, and ever-changing exhibits that connect past and present. Costumed interpreters, interactive tours, workshops, and special events bring history to life for families, students, and visitors of all ages. Operated by the Region of Waterloo, Schneider Haus continues to evolve its storytelling, collaborating with community partners to share diverse and previously untold narratives. With its unique blend of history, culture, and engagement, the site remains a welcoming place to explore heritage and community identity.