Tara, Ontario is a charming unincorporated community nestled in the municipality of Arran–Elderslie, Bruce County. This designated place is home to 1,037 residents and 458 dwellings, according to the 2011 census. Tara is situated in the geographic Arran Township and is located on the picturesque Sauble River. With an area of 2.39 square kilometres and an urban area that spans 63.5 square kilometres, Tara offers a blend of rural charm and urban amenities.
The history of Tara, Ontario dates back to 1851 when Richard Berford and John Hamilton, the first European settlers, surveyed the lots of the future village. The opening of the road from Southampton to Owen Sound (Highway 21) in 1852 spurred the early growth of the community. Hamilton opened a hotel to serve the incoming settlers of the surrounding townships, and a post-office named Eblana opened in 1862. The following year, the name was changed to Tara, after a town in County Meath, Ireland, which served as the seat of Irish royalty.
In 1855, H. W. M. Richards opened a sawmill, marking the beginning of the first manufacturing industry in Tara. A grist mill was added in 1857, and two years later, W. A. Gerolamy started a large foundry and agricultural implement works. Other early businesses included a steam sawmill, a woolen mill, and a potash factory. The railway reached Tara in October 1881, further boosting the community's growth.
According to the 2021 Census of Population conducted by Statistics Canada, Tara had a population of 1,119 living in 462 of its 476 total private dwellings. This represented a slight decrease of -1.7% from its 2016 population of 1,138. With a land area of 2.4 km2, Tara had a population density of 466.3/km2 in 2021.
Tara, Ontario is a vibrant community with a rich cultural scene. The Arran-Tara Agricultural Society holds an annual fair, the Arran-Tara Fall Fair, which has been a community tradition since 1858. The Tara Santa Claus Parade is another annual event that takes place on the first weekend of December.
Tara is also home to four churches: Christ Anglican Church, Tara United Church, Cornerstone Presbyterian Church, and Glad Tidings Mennonite Fellowship Church. These religious institutions play a significant role in the community's cultural and spiritual life.
Whether you're a history buff, a culture enthusiast, or a nature lover, Tara, Ontario has something to offer. Come and discover the charm of this southwestern Ontario community.
