Exploring Coldwater: Its Historic Mill, Museum, and Surrounding Ontario's Cottages Country
Ontario’s Cottages Country region is known for its natural beauty, charming cottages and peaceful atmosphere. Some also call it Cottages County although it is not a real county in the administrative sense of the term, but a name given to an area particularly known for its rural vacation homes. Located just a few hours drive from Toronto, this region offers a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, families seeking relaxation and nature lovers.
The rich history of the area dates back to the First Nations who lived there before the arrival of European settlers. Settlers began to take an interest in the region in the 19th century, mainly because of its beautiful landscapes and abundant natural resources. Today, many traditional cottages have been preserved and are used as second homes by locals and visitors alike.
The Cottages Country area is also famous for its many lakes and rivers, perfect for fishing, canoeing, paddle boarding, water skiing, sailing or swimming. Lakes like Lake Muskoka, Lake Rosseau, and Lake Joseph are popular with visitors. These clear waters offer opportunities for water sports, relaxing on the beaches and magnificent vistas.
The Big Chute Marine Railway was of particular interest to the navigators in us, as it is an incredible ingenuity put in place to overcome a significant obstacle to navigation and has worked very well for decades! The mechanism, unique in North America, allows up to 3 boats to be transported at the same time (depending on their dimensions) over the road from one body of water to another avoiding a fall of 17.7 m! It really is an impressive operation!
The Cottages Country area is also renowned for its many world-class golf courses. Golfers can enjoy beautifully landscaped golf courses offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.
Located in Simcoe County, Ontario, Coldwater is a quaint little community filled with beautiful scenery, rich history and vibrant culture. One of the jewels of this charming town is its historic mill, which has become an iconic place and the only Canadiana Heritage Museum.
The Coldwater Mill is a true testament to the region’s industrial past. Built in 1833, for the First Nations, it was one of the first flour and lumber mills in the region. Its strategic position on the banks of the Coldwater River allowed the mill to harness water power to grind grain and saw timber. Over the years, this historic landmark has been restored and preserved in a community effort to preserve its history and heritage. Thanks to public funds and donations from local people, the mill has been meticulously restored to resemble its original state. Today, visitors can admire the architectural beauty of this wood and stone building, as well as the intricate mechanics that bring it to life. Adjacent is also a recreation of a historic music pavilion which regularly hosts activities for the community and visitors.
Not far from the mill is the Canadiana Heritage Museum of Coldwater, which houses a fascinating collection of historical artifacts from the region. Visitors can explore different buildings and learn about the history of Coldwater and its people. The museum is also an effort by the citizens to preserve their heritage and people from all over make donations of all kinds to improve the already impressive collection of relics of all kinds illustrating the daily life of our ancestors in this region. Each building brings together artefacts under a specific theme and allows us to imagine the lives of people since the beginning of the 19th century. You can visit the house of the Woodrow family, who immigrated from Scotland in 1840, which has been enlarged over the years and each room is full of unique and most interesting pieces. Do not hesitate to ask for a guided tour, the volunteers who are passionate about history are just waiting to enrich your experience.
The historic Coldwater Mill and Museum are not only tourist attractions, they also play an important role in the life of the local community. Both facilities are run by dedicated local volunteers who take care of its upkeep and operations. Additionally, the museum hosts educational events and works with local schools to provide students with hands-on experience of local history.
Coldwater also offers a variety of events and activities to entertain visitors throughout the year. The Coldwater Mill Festival is a highly anticipated annual event, featuring milling demonstrations, musical performances, arts and crafts displays, and tastings of local produce. Plus, the area around Coldwater offers plenty of opportunities for nature lovers with hiking trails, fishing streams, and biking trails.
Coldwater and Cottages Country in Ontario is more than just a scenic destination. With its historic mill and museum, the town of Coldwater offers an immersive experience of the region’s past and showcases its rich heritage and the region’s landscapes will amaze you. Whether you are a history buff, nature enthusiast or simply looking for a quiet getaway, the Cottages Country area is definitely worth a visit.
For more information on the Ontario region, you can consult the following articles which will complete the review of the interesting sites of this region: Georgian Bay, Bruce Peninsula, Prince Edward County and Ottawa.
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