History

Located in the upper Great Lakes, the region of Owen Sound was first surveyed in 1815 by William Fitzwilliam Owen and Lieutenant Henry W. Bayfield. The area was named 'Owen's Sound' in honour of Admiral Edward Owen (William Fitzwilliam's older brother).

Originally known as Sydenham, the area was first settled by First Nations people, and then colonized in 1841 by Charles Rankin. The city gained its current name in 1851 and was incorporated in 1857.

Throughout much of its history, Owen Sound was a major port known by such names as the 'Chicago of the North', 'Corkscrew City', and 'Little Liverpool'. The notoriety of taverns, booze, and a brothel led to a rowdy reputation for the City.

Its proximity to Georgian Bay gave it access to the upper Great Lakes, while major rail lines easily moved cargo across the land.

Being both the gateway to cottage country and within the heart of Ontario's agricultural region, farming and tourism remain integral parts of the local economy.

Some Famous Residents

• Dr. Norman Bethune - Pioneer of public medicine
• William Avery 'Billy' Bishop - World War I flying ace, Victoria Cross recipient
• Clarence Henry 'Hap' Day - Hall of Fame NHL player, referee, and coach
• Elizabeth Grace Hay - Novelist and author
• Bill Hewitt - Legendary hockey broadcaster (son of Foster Hewitt)
• Cheryl Hickey - Television journalist
• Heather Hiscox - National television news anchor
• Private Thomas William 'Tommy' Holmes (later Sergeant Holmes) - 28th Victoria Cross recipient
• George Lagogianes - Television journalist
• Harry 'Apple Cheeks' Lumley - Hall of Fame NHL goaltender
• Thomas John 'Tom' Thomson - Iconic artist who influenced the Group of Seven
• Larisa Yurkiw - World Cup alpine ski racer