The History Of Wallaceburg

The town of Wallaceburg, Ontario has a rich history, dating back to the early 19th century. Named after Scotland’s national hero, Sir William Wallace, Wallaceburg was first settled by farmers and peasants from Kirkcudbrightshire, Scotland.

They arrived in 1804 and established the Baldoon Settlement along the Snye River. Although the settlers faced many difficulties such as malaria, harsh winters, and American invaders during the War of 1812, they persevered and contributed to the early success and development of the town. One of the town’s earliest major industries was the lumber trade, which was highly successful during the mid to late 19th century.

The Wallaceburg Cooperage Company, opened by David Alexander Gordon and his uncle Captain James Steinhoff in 1887, was one of the most notable businesses to develop during this era. However, as the supply of hardwood declined, industrialists had to find new business ideas to sustain the local economy. That’s when the glassmaking industry came to Wallaceburg in 1894. The Sydenham Glass Company was established and the industry lasted over 100 years, before closing in 1999.