133 Rebecca St

History

The Oakville Arena has been a hub for the community since 1951 and has hosted a variety of sporting activities and events, most notably hockey and figure skating, as well as many large community and national events. The history of sports, recreation, and social events gives this arena emotive and symbolic value to the community. The arena is also historically associated with Norman Otto Hipel. In 1940, Hipel patented the unique truss roof system used in the arena. This truss system was used in the construction of many Ontario arenas in the 1940s and 1950s but the Oakville Arena is a rare surviving example with this system intact.

The Town of Oakville’s account, reproduced from its heritage register.

Heritage attributes

The Oakville Arena is a rare example of mid 20th century arena complex design and of the technological achievements of the era. Built in 1951, the building is one of only four known surviving arenas in Ontario with a Hipel truss roof system. This system’s ability to span large areas provides the interior of the building with a distinctive character and open atmosphere. The unpainted wood system, sense of height created by the open trusses, and visual interest of the trusses, purlins, and roof deck create a unique space.

The Town of Oakville’s description, reproduced from its heritage register.

What the status means

Designated individually under Part IV of the Ontario Heritage Act by a Town by-law. Alterations to the heritage attributes and demolition need Town approval.

Whether a specific alteration needs a heritage permit is the Town’s call; ask its heritage planning staff before starting work. See permits and by-laws.

Sources

Contains information licensed under the Open Government Licence — Town of Oakville. Licence. Register checked September 24, 2026; the Town’s record is authoritative.