Norfolk County, Ontario facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Norfolk County
City (single-tier)
Norfolk County
Lighthouse and docks in Port Rowan.
Flag Coat of arms
Motto(s):  History Heritage and Diversity
Country	Canada
Province	Ontario
Established	1792 (County)
Restructured	1974 (Regional Municipality of Haldimand-Norfolk)
Separated	2001 (Single-tier municipality)
Area
• Land	1,607.55 km2 (620.68 sq mi)
Elevation	200 m (700 ft)
Population  (2023)
• Total	73,015
• Density	39.8/km2 (103/sq mi)
	86th
Time zone	UTC-5 (EST)
• Summer (DST)	UTC-4 (EDT)
Postal code span	N0A, N0E, N3Y, N4B
Area code(s)	519, 226, and 548
Website	www.norfolkcounty.ca

Norfolk County is a rural area in Southwestern Ontario, Canada. It sits on the north shore of Lake Erie. In 2023, about 73,015 people lived there. Even though it's called a "county," it's actually a "single-tier municipality." This means one local government handles all public services.

The biggest town in Norfolk County is Simcoe, with about 16,121 people in 2021. Other important towns include Port Dover, Delhi, Waterford, and Port Rowan. There are also many smaller communities. For a while in the late 1900s, Norfolk County was joined with Haldimand County, but they became separate again in 2000.

Exploring Norfolk County's Geography and Nature

Norfolk County is located on the Norfolk Sand Plain. This area has very fertile sandy soil. It also has a mild climate and a long growing season. This made it a great place for growing tobacco for a long time.

However, farmers are now growing many different crops. These include fruits, vegetables, lavender, ginseng, hazelnuts, and wolfberries. This change is happening because fewer people are using tobacco.

Long Point: A Special Natural Area

A very important natural feature in Norfolk County is Long Point. It's a long, narrow strip of land, about 40 kilometers (25 miles) long, that sticks out into Lake Erie. Long Point is a key stop for birds migrating across eastern North America.

In 1986, UNESCO named it a World Biosphere Reserve. This means it's a special place where nature is protected. Both the Long Point National Wildlife Area and the Long Point Provincial Park are found here. More than 25% of Norfolk County is covered by forests. These forests are especially common near the towns and small villages.

Main Towns and Communities

The main town and administrative center of Norfolk County is Simcoe. Other important towns are Port Dover, Delhi, and Waterford. Langton and Port Rowan are the largest communities on the western side of the county. Since many people live in rural areas, smaller communities are often found at highway intersections.

A Look at Norfolk County's History

Early History and European Arrival

The area of Norfolk County was important to the Princess Point culture around 500 AD to 1000 AD. These early people likely brought corn farming to Ontario. They slowly moved west and then south to Norfolk County. The sandy soil here was perfect for growing corn.

By 1669, French explorers reached what is now Port Dover. They claimed the Lake Erie region for King Louis XIV in 1670. Some history books say a French priest visited the area even earlier, in 1626.

The first European to live here was William (Billy) Smith in 1793. He settled near Port Rowan. This was part of the first community, the Long Point Settlement. Early settlers, known as United Empire Loyalists, built mills. Soon, sawmills and grist mills opened, and more people moved in. The area was first called Charlotte Villa and later Charlotteville.

Norfolk County in the 1800s

Norfolk County was officially created in July 1792. It was set up to elect a member to the new Legislative Assembly of Upper Canada. Its size was reduced in 1798, with parts going to other counties.

In 1826, two townships, Rainham and Walpole, were moved to Haldimand County. This was because they were too far from the London courthouse.

The town of Simcoe started when land was given to Aaron Culver in 1795. He agreed to build mills. A small village formed by 1812, but American troops burned it down in 1814. The post office opened in 1829 and was named Simcoe.

Norfolk County played a role in the War of 1812. Fort Norfolk was built in 1813. The Battle of Nanticoke happened here in 1813. American forces later burned Port Dover, Port Ryerse, and the Walsingham settlement in 1814.

In 1837, Norfolk County became its own district, called Talbot District. Simcoe was made the main town. In 1850, the district was replaced by Norfolk County for local government.

Logging was a big industry from 1860 to 1880 because the county had many forests. Farming was even more important. Wheat was the main crop until 1880, then corn and oats. Railways also started operating in the county in the late 1800s.

Historic Townships of Norfolk County

Here are the townships that made up Norfolk County in 1798:

• Charlotteville
• Houghton
• Middleton
• Rainham
• Townsend
• Walpole
• Walsingham
• Windham
• Woodhouse

In 1826, Rainham and Walpole townships moved to Haldimand County. Walsingham was later split into North and South Walsingham in 1881.

Before 1974, Norfolk had eight townships. While they are no longer political areas, their names are still used for land descriptions and on maps.

Map of Norfolk County from 1877, showing historical townships.

Norfolk County in the 1900s and Today

By the early 1900s, fruit orchards and canning crops became more common. Growing tobacco became very popular starting in 1920.

Tourism also grew in the 1920s. Summer resorts in places like Port Dover and Turkey Point attracted many visitors. Norfolk was still mainly a farming area, with fruits and vegetables as the main crops. Norfolk apples were famous around the world. Canning companies were also a big business. Port Dover was a major fishing center, sending fish across Canada and to the U.S.

An electric railway was built, connecting towns and helping farmers get their crops to markets faster. It also helped Port Dover become an important port on Lake Erie.

Joining and Separating Municipalities

Norfolk and Haldimand counties were joined together in 1974. This new area was called the Regional Municipality of Haldimand–Norfolk. It had a regional government and smaller towns and townships. This setup lasted until 2000.

On January 1, 2001, the regional municipality was split. Two new single-tier municipalities were formed: the Town of Haldimand and the Town of Norfolk. These immediately changed their names to Haldimand County and Norfolk County. Even though they are called "counties," they are legally considered cities because they have one level of government.

The Townships of Delhi and Norfolk, the Town of Simcoe, and part of the City of Nanticoke joined to form the "Town of Norfolk." Many smaller communities, like Port Dover and Port Rowan, are now part of Norfolk County. The first thing the new municipality did was change its name to Norfolk County.

In 2005, the county got a new coat of arms. It included symbols like hooded warblers, a tulip tree, and an eastern dogwood flower.

The first mayor of the county was Rita Kalmbach. She was followed by Dennis Travale, Charlie Luke, Kristal Chopp, and currently Amy Martin. A public transportation system was started in Norfolk County in 2010.

New technology companies are also investing in Norfolk County. This includes a Data Center and companies that make electric vehicle chargers. This is helping the county become a new center for agricultural technology.

Norfolk County's Climate

Norfolk County experiences a varied climate throughout the year. Summers are generally warm, while winters are cold with snow. The area receives a good amount of rain and snow, which helps with its fertile land and farming.

Fun Things to Do in Norfolk County

Norfolk County is known as Ontario's Garden because of its beautiful nature. Many people visit the towns and villages along Lake Erie, like Port Dover, Turkey Point, and Long Point.

Outdoor Activities and Festivals

Fishing is a popular activity for tourists. You can also enjoy birdwatching, hiking, camping, and cycling. The county hosts several exciting festivals throughout the year:

• The Norfolk County Fair and Horse Show happens every October during Thanksgiving weekend. It's Canada's largest county fair! You can see agricultural competitions, art shows, and big events like Demo Derbys and concerts.
• The Waterford Pumpkin Festival takes place in October. It features a pyramid of 1500 pumpkins, decorated buildings, craft shows, and live entertainment.
• The Friday the 13th motorcycle rally in Port Dover attracts many bikers.
• The Simcoe Christmas Panorama lights up Simcoe in December.
• Port Rowan hosts an annual Bayfest.

Agri-tourism is also growing. This means visiting farms, wineries, and farm stores. Wilsonville’s Whistling Gardens is a beautiful botanical garden in northeast Norfolk County. It was named one of Norfolk’s Top 10 Amazing Places.

Culture and Arts in Norfolk County

The Norfolk County Public Library has branches in Delhi, Port Dover, Port Rowan, Simcoe, and Waterford. The Simcoe branch is in a historic building that was built in 1912 with help from Carnegie libraries.

The Lighthouse Festival Theatre Company performs live plays at Port Dover's old town hall. They have been doing this since 1981. The theatre also hosts concerts and other events. More than 36,000 people attend events here every year.

Waterford's Old Town Hall also hosts local theatre shows. This historic building from 1902 has a stage and seats for 180 people. It's a place for music, art, and theatre.

The South Coast Jazz festival brings thousands of visitors to the area. It features famous jazz artists.

Museums: Discovering Norfolk's Past

Norfolk County has several museums where you can learn about its history:

Port Dover Harbour Museum

This museum is in an old fisherman's net shanty. It tells the story of Port Dover's fishing industry. You can see exhibits about old sailing ships, shipwrecks in Lake Erie, and the War of 1812. The museum also shares local stories and traditions about fishing and life by the lake.

Waterford Heritage & Agricultural Museum

Located in an old "Pickle Factory," this museum shows the history of farming and industry in the area. It has fun, interactive exhibits.

Norfolk County Archives at Eva Brook Donly Museum

The Eva Brook Donly Museum is a historic house from the Victorian era. It opened in 1946 and shows local history. You can see art by local artists and interesting items like Dr. Troyer's witch trap. The museum also has a large collection of historical documents, photos, and maps. This collection is now part of the Norfolk County Archives.

Teeterville Pioneer Museum

This museum focuses on what life was like for early settlers in the 1800s. It displays old farm equipment, home tools, and garden tools.

Delhi Tobacco Museum and Heritage Centre

Delhi Tobacco Museum & Heritage Centre

This museum shows the history of farming and culture in the former township. It highlights the art and science of growing tobacco during its "Golden Years." There's also a park nearby for picnics and walks.

Backus Mill Heritage and Conservation Centre

The Backus Mill Heritage and Conservation Centre is an open-air museum. It has a historic grist mill (a mill for grinding grain) and a nature center. It is a National Historic Site.

Norfolk Arts Centre at Lynnwood National Historic Site

The Norfolk Arts Centre is Norfolk County’s public art gallery. It is located in the Lynnwood National Historic Site. The center often changes its exhibits, showing art from local and regional artists. It also offers art programs and special events.

Special Events and Fairs

The Donnybrook Fair in Walsh is an annual two-day event. It has been held every year since 1857. Children from local schools enter projects, and farmers show their crops. The fair also has a popular demolition derby.

Gentlemen of the Road Music Festival

In August 2013, the band Mumford & Sons held their "Gentlemen of the Road" music festival in Norfolk County. It took place at the Norfolk County Fairgrounds in Simcoe. About 35,000 people attended. The festival aimed to help the local economy. It encouraged visitors to spend their money in Simcoe and Norfolk, bringing in an estimated $10 million in tourism revenue.

Boating and Water Fun

Norfolk County is also popular for boating and fishing. Turkey Point, a small village, has MacDonald Turkey Point Marina, which is the largest freshwater marina in Canada. Many people travel from Turkey Point to Pottahawk Point for fun on the water. Port Rowan also has a lively boating scene.

Sports and Recreation

Norfolk County has several sports teams and clubs for young people and adults.

Hockey Teams

The Norfolk HERicanes is a girls' hockey league. Their teams play at various arenas in Simcoe, Port Dover, Waterford, and Delhi.

Norfolk also has three Junior C level hockey teams:

• The Port Dover Sailors
• The Delhi Travellers
• The Simcoe Shamrocks (who moved to Hespeler in 2018)

The Norfolk Minor Hockey Association (Norfolk Knights) combines minor hockey associations from Port Dover, Simcoe, and Waterford. Their teams play at the Junior B/BB level.

Rugby Club

The Norfolk Harvesters RFC is a rugby football club. They have men's, women's, and youth rugby teams. The club started in 2001 and has won many championships. Their home field is at Waterford's Hellyer Memorial Park. Some players and coaches from the club have even gone on to play at provincial and national levels.

Learning in Norfolk County: Schools and Education

Norfolk County has many schools for students of all ages.

Public Schools

Public schools in Norfolk County are managed by the Grand Erie District School Board. They run 16 public elementary schools and five public high schools:

• Boston Public School
• Courtland Public School
• Delhi Public School
• Doverwood Public School
• Elgin Avenue Public School
• Houghton Public School
• Langton Public School
• Lynndale Heights Public School
• Port Rowan Public School
• Teeterville Public School
• Walsh Public School
• Waterford Public School
• West Lynn Public School
• Windham Central Public School (no longer open)
• Simcoe Composite School
• Delhi District Secondary School
• Port Dover Composite School (now Lakewood Elementary)
• Valley Heights Secondary School
• Waterford District High School

Catholic Schools

Catholic schools are managed by the Brant Haldimand Norfolk Catholic District School Board. They have seven elementary schools and one high school:

• Our Lady of Fatima Catholic School
• Sacred Heart Catholic School
• St. Mary's Catholic School
• St. Cecilia's Catholic School
• St. Frances Cabrini Catholic School
• St. Joseph's Catholic School
• St. Michael's Catholic School
• Holy Trinity Catholic High School

This board also runs a high school at the Sprucedale Youth Centre, which is a secure facility for young people.

There is also a French-language Catholic school, École Élémentaire Catholique Sainte-Marie, managed by the Conseil scolaire catholique Mon Avenir.

Media and News in Norfolk County

Documentary Film

In 2004, a documentary film called Tobacco's Last Stand was released. It showed how tobacco farming affected the Norfolk County region.

Radio Stations

Simcoe has its own radio station, CHCD-FM. People in the area can also often pick up radio stations from nearby cities like Erie (Pennsylvania), Cleveland (Ohio), Buffalo (New York), and even some from Toronto.

Local Newspapers

You can read about local news in Norfolk County through these newspapers:

• Delhi News Record (Norfolk and Tillsonburg News)
• Port Dover Maple Leaf
• Port Rowan Good News
• Simcoe Reformer

Famous People from Norfolk County

Many notable people have come from Norfolk County, including:

• Jacob R. Beamer, a Patriot
• Shane Bergman, a Canadian football player
• Rob Blake, an NHL hockey player, Olympic Gold Medalist, and Stanley Cup Champion
• Annaleise Carr, a swimmer
• Jassen Cullimore, an NHL hockey player and Stanley Cup Champion
• Rick Danko, a musician from The Band
• Terry Danko, a musician
• Nelson Emerson, an NHL hockey player
• Red Kelly, a Hockey Hall of Fame inductee
• Joey Muha, a drummer and musician
• Jack Roxburgh, a politician
• Dwayne Roloson, an NHL hockey player
• Rick Wamsley, an NHL hockey player
• William Legh Walsh

Norfolk County's Population and Diversity

In the 2021 Census, Norfolk County had a population of 67,490 people. This was an increase of 5.4% from its population in 2016. The county covers a land area of about 1,597.68 square kilometers.

According to the 2016 census by Statistics Canada:

• The average income for people aged 15 or older was about $32,301 CAD.
• The average earnings for all people with income was about $40,045 CAD.
• Most of the population is White (95.4%). There are also communities of Aboriginal (2.8%), Black (0.9%), and Asian (0.9%) residents.

Images for kids

• 

  Lighthouse and docks in Port Rowan.

• 

  Flag of Norfolk County.

• 

  Norfolk County Coat of Arms.

• 

  Map of Ontario showing Norfolk County.

See also

In Spanish: Norfolk County para niños