The City of Owen Sound

Population: 22000 approx.
Hidden Treasures: Inglis Falls is a magnificent 18-metre-high cascade, created by the Sydenham River meeting the edge of the Niagara Escarpment. On a clear day, you can see out to the Owen Sound harbour.
Must Do: Tom Thompson Museum Tom Thomson’s landscape paintings in oil created an enduring image of the Ontario North. His art both reflected and reinforced developing Canadian nationalism.
Size of Area: 24.22 km²
Famous For: stunning geography, unique history, and a burgeoning creative arts scene, especially with live music.

Historical Tidbits:

World War I flying ace and Victoria Cross winner, William Avery “Billy” Bishop, born in Owen Sound, was Canada’s leading pilot in the war. In 1917 and 1918, Bishop was credited with downing 72 enemy aircraft. He was awarded the Victoria Cross, the Distinguished Service Order, and the Military Cross. Bishop is also one of the few to have tangled with Manfred von Richthofen (the Red Baron) and survived, forcing the German pilot to retreat in a damaged aircraft.

From about 1830 until the end of the American Civil War, escaped slaves made their way across the Canada-U.S. border through the Underground Railroad, a secret route that led to freedom. Many were headed for the Village of Sydenham (Owen Sound), the last “terminal” of the railroad, and settled here, finding work, and raising families.

The City of Owen Sound is located on the southern shore of Georgian Bay in a valley below the limestone cliffs of the Niagara Escarpment. It lies at the foot of the Bruce Peninsula, famous for its exceptional geography.

Owen Sound is picturesque and features an expansive harbour and bay, parks, trails, natural waterfalls, and a unique history. It’s the largest urban community in Grey and Bruce counties and holds the seat of government in Grey, supporting regional, provincial, and federal government offices, and has a large regional hospital. It has exceptional educational facilities including elementary, secondary, french immersion, private, and Christian schools. In addition, it has a post-secondary campus of Georgian College.

In Owen Sound, you’ll find a downtown economy that is busy and offers something for everyone. Owen Sound is a jewel waiting to be discovered and exceptional homes tend to be reasonably priced.

There is much to do in terms of recreation. In summer, you have so many choices such as boating and fishing. In winter, there are thousands of kilometres of snowmobile trails, cross-country skiing areas, and downhill ski clubs. Hiking and cycling are popular pursuits and there are three golf courses nearby. Community facilities are vast with two arenas, numerous soccer, and baseball complexes, in addition to a new recreation centre with pools, and fitness facilities.