Welcome to Brubacher House at the University of Waterloo!
Brubacher House is situated on the Haldimand Tract, the traditional territory of the Attawandaron (Neutral), Anishinaabeg and Haudenosaunee peoples. Explore local history with a tour of the restored 1850s Pennsylvania German Mennonite farmhouse and four square garden. Participate in an Artist-in-Residence program or book our event space for your own private event. Enjoy a nature walk on nearby trails around beautiful Columbia Lake and Laurel Creek. Experience the digital exhibit, Life Upstairs. We look forward to your visit!
Events
Home Routes folk concert: Brian Conway and Cate Sandstrom
THE FIDDLE holds a central place in Irish musical tradition, with distinctive regional styles shaped by generations of expressive ornamentation, intricate bowing, and rhythmic variation. In the early 1900s, Irish immigrants brought these traditions to New York, where the lyrical Sligo Style evolved into the New York Sligo Style, known for its added drive and swing. Influenced by legendary fiddler Michael Coleman and carried forward by musicians such as Andy McGann and Paddy Reynolds, this tradition remains a vital part of Irish music. Bronx-born fiddler Brian Conway, a direct link to Coleman through his teachers, has dedicated his career to preserving and sharing this rich musical heritage. As one of the world’s premier Irish fiddlers and a renowned teacher, Conway continues to pass the Sligo Style to a new generation of musicians, including Cate Sandstrom.
News
2025-26 Artists-in-Residence: Janna Martin and Amir Al-Azraki
Janna Martin and Amir Al-Azraki rehearse for reconciliation through Forum Theatre.
From Shore to Shore poetry book launch
The old summer kitchen of Brubacher House was filled with warmth and excitement on Sunday evening, February 1st, as local Mennonite history enthusiasts, members of the literary community, and friends and family of Hannah Gardiner and Jakob-Michael Stephan gathered to celebrate the launch of their first book, From Shore to Shore: Ukrainian Mennonite Poetry in Translation.
Open Call for Poems
Do you or your relatives have self-composed German Mennonite poetry that you’re interested in sharing with the community? We’d love to hear from you!