Historical Collingwood

Tours are run from the May long weekend through to Thanksgiving for groups of 2 to 6 people.

 Collingwood: Settlement and Industrial History

Explore Collingwood’s history from an agricultural settlement to an industrial powerhouse while riding scenic harbour bike trails. Starting at the Collingwood Museum this ride will take you on a loop which examines Collingwood’s rise as a Nineteenth Century shipping centre for Canada, its early industrial development and role in Canada’s “Labour Revolt of 1919”, its naval contribution to Allied victory in the Second World War, and its industrial legacy in the post-war years.

 Collingwood: Tourism and Recreation

Explore Collingwood’s transformation into a world class tourist destination. Starting at the Craigleith Depot this ride begins with a discussion how railroads and the telegraphy altered people’s perceptions of work and travel at the end of the Nineteen Century which marked the cultural origin of the ‘tourist.’ Our ride takes you through the beautify Nipissing Ride trail to the base of Blue Mountain, discussing the rise of both private ski clubs (unique to Southern Ontario) and Blue Mountain Resort as a tourist destination.

HALF DAY TOUR(3 hours approximately)

Starting at the Collingwood Museum we will tour 12 historical sites including period architecture and the drama of Collingwood’s history.

FULL DAY TOUR(6 hours approximately)

This tour goes farther afield touring 20 historical sites showing the rise of Collingwood as a global tourist destination. Tour starts at the Craigleigh Depot on Hwy 26 with lunch at the Shale Rock Café.

COST

Half Day: $50 per person (plus HST)

Full Day: $70 per person (plus HST)

Bike rental: $10 extra

Led by Dr. Chris O’Shea (PhD, Canadian History) these tours will explore the social, economic, and cultural development of Collingwood from its agricultural roots, to its development as an industrial centre, and its evolution into a global tourist destination.