Heritage/Walkerton

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By clearing 12 acres of land in 1851, James Walker, satisfying the requirements of what is now known as Brant Township, became Walkerton’s first settler by erecting a mill on the Saugeen River.

Laying these roots between the 1850`s and the 1890`s, this once small settlement of log huts became the diversified community of manufacturing and government facilities town it is today, with settlers from Ireland, Scotland, French Canadian, British and German amongst them. The Wellington Grey/Bruce Railway, which made its appearance in 1872 brought more settlers and industrialization to Walkerton as well.

Highlighting the Town of Walkerton’s oldest structures is the Victoria Jubilee Hall, built in 1897 in honour of Queen Victoria’s Diamond Jubilee. Over the years, this magnificent building has held the market square, a 300 seat theatre, dance classes, music recitals, performances and even the first town council meeting in 1898. Thousands of people pass through its doors every year. Housing the town's only bell, its newly restored ringing can be heard throughout the town, every hour on the hour, celebrating over 100 years of Victoria Jubilee Hall.

Amalgamated in 1998, the Town of Walkerton, Township of Brant and the Township of Greenock now form today what we know as the Municipality of Brockton, recognized in 1999.

Along the banks of the Saugeen River are little shops and delis, the Saugeen River Trail System and beautiful treed parks. The hilly, picturesque main street is dotted with something for everyone, from tiny café’s to a variety of locally owned businesses.

The town also holds meat draws, family - public skating and hockey tournaments at the Walkerton Community Centre, bingo at the Knights of Columbus Hall and other family oriented events throughout the year. Golfing, fishing, camping, tennis and cross country skiing can also be found in the busy little town in abundance. Popular for a starting point for canoers portage right through to Southampton on the Saugeen River, where the Saugeen empties into Lake Huron.

As a former resident once stated “ Let us hold fast to the heritage which has been handed down to us by the pioneers of this great land” (Mrs Frank Eidt).

Walkerton is definitely a jewel in Bruce County!

The Brocton Buskers Festival will be celebrating its 5th anniversary on August 12, 2011, 10am - 4pm downtown including live entertainment, carnival games wagon and horse rides and much more.

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Friday, April 01, 2011