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When Albert Sydney
Smith first envisioned a community along the south shore of
Mary Lake in 1871 he was, of course, looking at the
commercial possibilities. The extensive mixed pine and
hardwood forest in the area could sustain a large lumber
industry. The lock on the Muskoka River north of Mary Lake
allowed the steamships to transport people and goods to and
from Vernon, Fairy and Peninsula Lakes. By 1873 plans had
been created for the village of Port Sydney, named
appropriately enough, after Smith.
When
a small railroad was built a little later to go over the
portage from Peninsula Lake to Lake of Bays, effectively
extending the hinterland to Minden and Dorset, the village
seemed destined to become a large trading center. Impressive
homes, churches and boarding houses sprang up.
But
like many small Muskoka communities created from the logging
boom there came a bust.
In
1886 the railroad by-passed Port Sydney, taking a more
western route through Utterson. Although the lumber industry
and some farming continued to keep things somewhat
economically viable, the future of the town seemed doomed.
The beauty of the setting, however, began to draw people
from Toronto. The homes that usually would have disappeared
were turned into summer homes. The boarding house began to
fill with tourists. The steamships carried tourists. Other
hotels were built. A new future for the village began to
develop.
Port
Sydney has since blossomed into one of the prettiest
villages in the region. Visitors are attracted by the
unspoiled scenery and the well-maintained, beautiful beach,
as well as to the boating, the fishing, the golf, the
biking, the fall colours, the local history, and the
historic homes and churches.
The
local dances, a fall turkey dinner and fireworks along with
a winter carnival are all part of the welcoming community
spirit. Snowmobilers and skiers enjoy fine dining and
accommodations set amidst some of the best trails in
Ontario. Some 70 businesses make up the Port Sydney Chamber
of Commerce membership. These businesses, as well as 13
other community organizations, provide activities and
services that make Port Sydney not only a great community to
visit, but also a dynamic place to live, work, and retire.
Come and see for yourself.
The
above text is borrowed with permission from the Port Sydney
Chamber’s website at www.portsydneycofc.com.
Visit the site for more details and information on local
events and businesses.
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