Markdale, Ontario is a charming community nestled in the Municipality of Grey Highlands, in Grey County, Canada. With a population of 1,216 in 2016, marking a 3.5% increase from 1,175 in 2011, this quaint town is a growing hub of activity. The average age of the population in 2016 was approximately 43 years old, making it a community with a blend of young families and retirees.
Markdale was first settled in 1846 and was originally known as East Glenelg, named after a nearby township. In 1864, it was renamed Cornabus, after the Scottish hometown, Islay, of the postmaster, Donald MacDuffie (1814–1892). The post office was established in 1869.
The 1870s brought a significant change to the town with the introduction of new railways. The Toronto, Grey and Bruce Railway decided to make Cornabus a stop on its route from Toronto to Owen Sound in 1873. This decision was contingent on finding land to build a station. A local landowner, Mark Armstrong, sold a parcel of land to the railway on the condition that the new station bore his name. Thus, Cornabus became Markdale, and the town saw an immediate increase in business when the railway station opened. Markdale was incorporated as a village in 1888.
The local newspaper, The Markdale Standard, was first published in 1880 and continued until 2012. In 1957, the Regal Films production of the 1958 B film, Wolf Dog, starring Allison Hayes and Jim Davis, was filmed on location in Markdale as well as nearby Holland Township.
In 2001, Markdale was amalgamated with the townships of Artemesia, Euphrasia and Osprey to form Grey Highlands. On August 20, 2009, an F2 tornado originated in Durham, 20 km southwest of Markdale, with one fatality. It then touched down in Markdale as an F0 and caused local damage.
Markdale is home to several industries including Chapman's Ice Cream and Medike Leather Products. Public services include an Ontario Provincial Police detachment, a fire department, an 08-bed Brightshores Health System Hospital, a public library, an arena and community centre, and a curling and golf club. These amenities make Markdale a self-sufficient and vibrant community.
Markdale, Ontario is known for its annual festivities, including the Rotary Club's Street Frolic in July, and the Agricultural Society's Markdale Fall Fair in late August. These events bring the community together and offer a glimpse into the vibrant culture of this charming town.
