Baden, Ontario, a suburban community nestled in the Township of Wilmot, Regional Municipality of Waterloo, is a charming destination with a rich history and vibrant culture. Named after Baden-Baden, Germany, this unincorporated place is home to approximately 4,940 residents as of 2015. Baden is known for its iconic Baden Tower, a massive television, radio, and communications tower that stands atop one of the Baden Hills. The area is also characterized by its farmlands and pine forests, adding to its rustic charm.
The history of Baden, Ontario, dates back to 1854 when Jacob Beck, the first settler, opened a large flour mill on Spring Creek. Originally called Weissenburg, the village was renamed Baden in 1854 by Beck, who was born in the Grand Duchy of Baden-Baden, Germany. The town grew steadily, boasting a school and a population of 400 by 1864.
Baden is also the birthplace of Sir Adam Beck, the founder of Ontario's public hydroelectric system. A historical plaque near Baden honours Christian Nafziger, an Amish Mennonite from Munich, Germany, who arrived in 1822 with about seventy families. He obtained the "German Block" (now Wilmot Township) from the government, and many other Amish from Europe settled here.
Baden is home to the historic Castle Kilbride, built in 1877 by James Livingston, co-founder of a successful linseed oil company. The castle was purchased and restored by Wilmot Township in 1993, spending $6.2 million on the project. It was designated a National Historic Site of Canada in 1994. Today, Wilmot Township's administrative offices and council chamber are housed in an addition to the original building.
Baden is also home to the Prime Ministers Path, a series of bronze sculptures of Canadian prime ministers. This privately funded project was conceived as a Canada 150 project and has been met with repeated controversy. As of June 2020, statues of Robert Borden, Kim Campbell, William Lyon Mackenzie King, John A. Macdonald, and Lester B. Pearson have been installed.
The Region of Waterloo Library operates a branch at 115 Snyder's Road East, beside the community mailboxes, providing residents with a wealth of resources and a quiet place to read or study.
The Grand Trunk Railway originally built its rail line to Southwestern Ontario in the mid-19th century, with a station in Baden. This line still exists as the CN Guelph Subdivision. Baden is not currently served by passenger rail, though Wilmot Township has set aside land for a possible future GO Transit layover facility and station in Baden. The nearest passenger station is Kitchener station, which is served by both Via Rail Corridor and GO Transit Kitchener line trains.
In conclusion, Baden, Ontario, is a community that beautifully blends history and modernity. Whether you're a history buff, a nature lover, or someone who enjoys exploring new places, Baden has something to offer everyone.
