Parks Blog

Tag: history

  • The astronomical origins of the calendar

    Most of us live by our calendars to keep our schedules straight. But did you know the calendar has astronomical origins? While the constellations were, largely, created to help people remember significant star patterns, they have plenty of other uses. One of these is for the formation of the calendar.

  • Where can a paddle take you?

    In today’s post, Rondeau Provincial Park‘s Chief Park Naturalist Jess Matthews takes us back in time… There may be a time when you used your paddle to get through white caps. At other times, it leisurely pulled you over still wetlands. They are a lifeline. Solid, reliable; something that won’t break down on whatever journey…

  • Squirrels for sale: the incredible history of squirrels at Rondeau

    Today’s post is by Jess Matthews, the chief park naturalist at Rondeau Provincial Park. One hundred years ago, there was a lot we didn’t know about managing parks. The idea of maintaining ecological integrity is relatively new. Ontario’s first parks were primarily established for recreation and tourism. During the first half of the 20th century,…

  • Shining a light on the historic Presqu’ile lighthouse

    If you’ve visited Presqu’ile Provincial Park, it is almost certain you have spent some time admiring their iconic Presqu’ile Point Lighthouse. For over 180 years this lighthouse has remained a landmark in times of great change. Although the Presqu’ile Point Lighthouse has remained a beacon along the north shore of Lake Ontario, it has had…

  • Bronte Creek Harvest Festival

    On September 23 and 24, 2023, you’re invited to the annual Bronte Creek Harvest Festival. Experience harvest season as it might have been over 100 years ago at Bronte Creek Provincial Park‘s historic Spruce Lane Farm!

  • 80 years of change in Neys’ sand dunes

    Today’s post comes from Micaela Lewis, a Discovery Program student at Neys Provincial Park. Gazing through Neys’ iconic forested dune system is an awe-inspiring experience that park visitors cherish. With the soft sand, lichen-covered trees, and colourful wildflowers, the forest appears almost enchanted. But the landscape didn’t always look this way. The dunes have been present…

  • Voices of the river: exploring the French River Visitor Centre

    Today’s post comes from Dave Sproule, a Natural Heritage Education Specialist in our Northeast Zone.  Can you hear the water speak?  The waters of the French River have many voices. These voices travelled the river and lived along its shores. The French River has been a conduit for people, goods, and culture for thousands of years.…

  • The wreck of the Lambton

    Today’s post comes from Kenton Otterbein, Discovery Program leader at Killbear Provincial Park. In a time before instant communication, accurate weather forecasts, or GPS, the navigation lights and lighthouses on the Great Lakes helped guide ships to safe harbour through dangerous shoals and stormy seas. Just over 100 years ago, one ship met its early…

  • The Meteor in Helenbar Lake

    Today’s post comes from our Discovery Specialist (and history buff), Dave Sproule. On June 29, 1946, a Meteor struck the waters of Helenbar Lake in the remote forests 60 km north of the town of Blind River… … but it wasn’t the kind of Meteor you’re thinking of. This Meteor was a jet fighter plane!

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