Shelburne, a charming town nestled in Dufferin County, Ontario, Canada, is a place where history and culture intertwine. With a population of 8,126 as of 2016, this town is situated at the crossroads of Highway 10 and Highway 89. Shelburne is renowned for hosting the Annual Canadian Championship Old Time Fiddling Contest every August, attracting music enthusiasts from all over the country.
In the early 1860s, the founder of Shelburne, William Jelly, ventured through the wilderness to select prime lots in Melancthon and built several cabins in the area. As Melancthon began to develop in the late 1840s, the construction of the Toronto-Sydenham Road (now Highway 10) commenced, leading to settlers moving into the Shelburne area in the 1860s.
In 1865, William Jelly established the British Canadian Hotel, marking a significant milestone in the town's history. Shortly after, a post office was erected, named after the Earl of Shelburne. This period saw rapid economic growth, with the population increasing from 70 villagers in 1869 to 750 villagers in 1877, largely due to the construction of new railways. Shelburne was officially incorporated as a town in 1877, marking its place on the map of Ontario.
According to the 2021 Census of Population conducted by Statistics Canada, Shelburne had a population of 8,994 living in 3,025 of its 3,150 total private dwellings. This represents a change of 10.7% from its 2016 population of 8,126. With a land area of 6.56 km2 (2.53 sq mi), it had a population density of 1,371.0/km2 (3,551.0/sq mi) in 2021.
Shelburne, Ontario, with its rich history and vibrant culture, offers a unique blend of small-town charm and urban amenities. Whether you're a history buff, a music lover, or someone looking for a peaceful place to call home, Shelburne has something for everyone.
