Bobcaygeon, Ontario, is a charming community nestled on the Trent-Severn Waterway in the City of Kawartha Lakes. Known as the "Hub of the Kawarthas," Bobcaygeon is a vibrant hub for the region, offering a range of services that cater to both locals and tourists. This article explores the rich history, cultural significance, and exciting events that make Bobcaygeon a must-visit destination.
Bobcaygeon was incorporated as a village in 1876, with its unique name deriving from either the Mississauga Ojibway words for "at the very shallow currents," "at the cliffed cascades," or "at currented rocky narrows," or from the French phrase for "beautiful hedged farmland." The first lock in the Trent-Severn Waterway was built in Bobcaygeon in 1833, marking the beginning of the town's development.
The area's history dates back to 1615 when French explorer Samuel de Champlain passed through during his military expedition. After France ceded the colony to Great Britain in 1763, the area that would become Bobcaygeon became part of Upper Canada. The early 1830s saw the arrival of settlers, with Thomas Need, who arrived in 1832, recognized as the founder of Bobcaygeon.
The town's development was further stimulated in the 1850s by the lumbering business of Mossom Boyd. With Canadian Confederation in 1867, Bobcaygeon became part of the province of Ontario. By 1869, it was a thriving village with a population of 800, boasting a robust trade in lumber, limestone, hides, and grain.
Bobcaygeon gained cultural significance when The Tragically Hip released a song titled "Bobcaygeon" in 1998. Although not specifically about the town, the song has become culturally associated with it. In 2011, the band performed a concert in Bobcaygeon as part of Big Music Fest, and in 2016, a viewing event for the band's final concert attracted a crowd of roughly 5,000, marking the largest public event in the community's history.
Bobcaygeon hosts a variety of events throughout the year, attracting visitors from far and wide. The village's Canada Day festivities are held at Tommy Anderson Park, with a fireworks display at Beach Park. The "Unlock The Summer" Event marks the beginning of summer and the opening of the locks for the season.
The annual Ontario Open Fiddle & Stepdance Competition takes place during the last weekend of July, while the Bobcaygeon Fall Fair is held during the last weekend of September. Car enthusiasts can enjoy the annual cruisefest for classic and custom cars in the second week of September.
The Kawartha Settlers' Village hosts the town's annual Festival of Trees in the second week of November. The annual Bobcaygeon House Tour, sponsored by local churches and merchants, takes place in mid-June, featuring a tour of six Bobcaygeon homes and an art show at the Trinity United Church. The Canada/US Walleye Tournament in May is another highlight, with the weigh-in and outdoors show hosted at the Bobcaygeon-Verulam Community Centre.
With its rich history, cultural significance, and exciting events, Bobcaygeon, Ontario, is a destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you're a history buff, a music lover, or an outdoor enthusiast, you're sure to find something to love in this charming community.
