Kirkfield, Ontario, is a quaint village nestled in the city of Kawartha Lakes. This unincorporated village, named in 1864, is a testament to the rich history and cultural heritage of Ontario.
Originally known as Novar, the village was renamed Kirkfield after the government rejected the initial name. The predominantly Scottish settlers at the time chose Kirkfield, inspired by Kirk' o' Field in Edinburgh. Today, Kirkfield stands as a testament to the Scottish heritage of its early settlers.
Kirkfield is home to Lock 36 of the Trent-Severn Waterway, a hydraulic lift lock that connects Canal Lake and the artificially flooded Mitchell Lake. The village is a regular stop for travellers and commuters journeying on Highway 48 (now Portage Road) towards Highway 12 and east towards Highway 35.
Kirkfield, Ontario, is the birthplace of William Mackenzie, a Canadian railway, transit, and electrical entrepreneur. Mackenzie's railway, the Canadian Northern Railway, was Canada's second transcontinental railway, which opened in 1915. Despite going bankrupt during World War I, it became the foundation for the Canadian National Railways in 1923.
Mackenzie's legacy also extends to the Toronto Transit Commission, which he helped establish in 1921. He was a pioneer in power generation at Niagara Falls and headed the Electrical Development Company of Ontario.
The Sir William Mackenzie Inn, built in 1888, is a notable landmark in Kirkfield. Rumoured to be haunted, this inn adds a touch of mystery to the village. Several other homes in Kirkfield were built by Mackenzie for his family members, further cementing his legacy in the village.
Lock 36, a 15-metre-high hydraulic lift lock, is a significant feature of Kirkfield. Constructed between 1896 and 1907, it underwent additional updates to its electrical and hydraulic system between 1965 and 1966. Today, it stands as the second highest lift lock in Canada.
Kirkfield was the childhood home of businessman Pat Burns, who started the Calgary Stampede and built one of the largest meat packing and ranching empires in the world.
Education in Kirkfield is provided by Lady Mackenzie Public School, serving an average of about 450 students with a dedicated staff and faculty of 25.
In conclusion, Kirkfield, Ontario, is a village that beautifully blends history, culture, and charm. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a traveller passing through, or someone looking for a peaceful place to settle, Kirkfield has something to offer everyone.
