Binbrook, a community nestled in southeastern Hamilton, Ontario, Canada, is a charming blend of history and modern living. Since its amalgamation into the city of Hamilton in 2001, Binbrook has seen a surge in development, with hundreds of new homes springing up, separated from Hamilton by conservation and agricultural lands. As of the 2021 census, Binbrook is home to 10,791 residents.
Binbrook's history is deeply rooted in community activity, agriculture, and First Nations peoples. Armstrong's General Store and the feed mill were once the heart of community activity, and in the 1960s, Cybulski's Grocery Store became a hub for the small community. The Knox Presbyterian Church, a Baptist church, and an Anglican Church all stand near the village center.
Evidence of Algonquin tribes inhabiting the area has been found, adding to Binbrook's rich historical tapestry. The first registry of Binbrook dates back to 1791 when it was known as Township #11 in the District of Nassau. The plan, listing four concessions and blocks divided amongst several families, can be found in the Department of Lands and Forests, Toronto, dated October 25, 1791.
The Binbrook farmers' market, open seasonally, is a highly anticipated event that showcases local growers and artisans. The market is held at the Fairgrounds, a site steeped in Canadian history for hosting one of North America's oldest Fall fairs. The Fairgrounds and Agricultural Hall are the venues for many community events and lie at the heart of the community.
The Binbrook Little Theatre, located across from the Agricultural Hall, is a testament to the area's creativity and culture. The theatre offers opportunities for aspiring actors to explore their potential on stage, with three productions a season.
In April 2018, the Hamilton Public Library opened the Binbrook branch. The community also boasts a community centre, arena, soccer fields, and the Binbrook Conservation area. As of July 2020, an LCBO opened in town, replacing the Binbrook Food Market as the town's long-standing and only retail store selling alcohol.
The Binbrook Conservation Area, a 396-hectare (978 acre) tract of land owned and operated by the Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority, is a must-visit. Of this area, 174 hectares (430 acres) are covered by the picturesque Lake Niapenco. The NPCA purchased the area in 1968, and the lake was formed after the completion of a dam built in 1971 to augment the summer water flow in the Welland River and provide seasonal flood control.
The lake is surrounded by open meadows, hardwood forests, and reforested areas. The old campground access roads now form many of the hiking trails at the Binbrook Conservation Area. Recently, the park added wakeboarding, offering residents a chance to enjoy the surf at this otherwise quiet and serene lake.
The population of Binbrook was 10,791 at the Canada 2021 Census. The continued growth has attracted many businesses to the area, including Freshco, Tim Hortons, and Shoppers Drug Mart. Despite the growth, the community still has its roots in farming, and new residents continue to support the local farming community while encouraging the vitality and growth of the village.
