Caledonia, Ontario, a community nestled on the Grand River in Haldimand County, Canada, is a place where history and modernity coexist. With a population of 12,179 as per the 2021 Canadian Census, Caledonia is a vibrant community within Ward 3 of Haldimand County, represented by Councillor Dan Lawrence.
Caledonia's history is deeply intertwined with the Grand River Navigation Company and the villages of Seneca and Oneida. The company laid out the village of Oneida on the south side of the Grand River, while Seneca was established about a mile down the river. The Grand River divided Caledonia into North and South, with the construction of dams in 1835 making water power available and leading to the establishment of mills across the area.
The main street, named "Argyle" after Glasgow in Scotland, is a testament to the high concentration of Scottish immigrants in the area. The Hamilton to Port Dover plank road was brought through Caledonia in 1838, and a bridge was built across the river in 1842. The Grand River Bridge, built in 1927, now serves Caledonia's traffic.
Caledonia evolved significantly over the years. The Grand River Navigation company went bankrupt by 1860, and their land was sold to different organizations. The Grand Trunk Railway passed through Caledonia around 1883, marking a new era of transportation. The town limits expanded as Oneida became part of Caledonia.
The Caledonia Dam was sold to milling companies in 1875, and the Caledonia Mill, now used for office space, was taken over by Robert Shirra. The town also saw the opening of an Opera House and the construction of St. Paul's Angelican Church. The Grand River land dispute involving First Nation land claims brought Caledonia to national attention in 2006.
Ranald McKinnon, born in Ardelum, Scotland, was a significant figure in Caledonia's history. He worked on the Rideau Canal System and was involved in the community, serving as the Treasurer of the Presbyterian Church and Caledonia's first Reeve. Despite facing financial setbacks, McKinnon left a lasting legacy in Caledonia.
As of the 2021 census, there were 11,510 citizens that spoke English only, 10 that spoke only French, 595 that spoke both official languages, and 60 that spoke neither.
Caledonia boasts several attractions, including the Haldimand County Caledonia Centre and the Caledonia Public Library. The town's heritage is preserved in the Edinburgh Square Heritage and Cultural Centre, the Grand River Bridge, the Grand River Dam, and the Caledonia Mill, among others.
Caledonia is home to several parks, including Seneca Park, Rotary Riverside Trail, and McKinnon Park. The town also hosts annual events such as the Caledonia Fair, Light Up Night, Santa Claus Parade, Yard Sale Day, and Canada Day Festival and Parade.
Caledonia houses several cemeteries, including the Caledonia Cemetery, Saint Patrick's Cemetery, Caledonia Methodist Cemetery, and Saint Paul's Anglican Cemetery.
Caledonia, Ontario, with its rich history and vibrant community, is a place worth exploring. Whether you're a history buff, a nature lover, or just looking for a unique place to visit, Caledonia has something for everyone.
