Ailsa Craig

The founding of this community coincided with construction of the section of the Grand Trunk Railway line from St. Mary's to Point Edward, begun in 1858 and completed a year later. In 1861 David Craig and W. G. Shipley registered subdivisions and a post office opened. Adopting the name of a small Scottish island, Ailsa Craig flourished as the centre for the fertile surrounding region. In 1870 it had a population of 500 and contained hotels, stores, mills, and several other small industries. By this time it had become the site of the largest cattle market west of London. By a Provinctal Act of December 21, 1874, the community became an incorporated Village, and the first council met on January 19, 1875.

Ontario · Canada