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History of Holland Landing
Situated halfway between
Newmarket and Bradford, the community of Holland Landing was for centuries a canoe launching place for native Indians, and
a post for traders of the Northwest Fur Company. In 1793, Governor John Graves Simcoe discovered what would be the future
site of Holland Landing, originally known as St. Albans, and believed this area would make an ideal shipping and defense point
between York (now Toronto) and Georgian Bay. In 1797, Yonge Street was completed to Holland Landing, providing an overland
route from York. During the war of 1812, a pine fort is said to have been built by Simcoe near Soldier's Bay to protect against
a possible American attack from the north. Although the first settlers had lived on the site since 1802, the beginnings of
the village did not occur until about 1820. Growth continued through the 1830's and 1840's and included the establishment
of sawmills, a large Inn and tavern, a brewery, a distillery, a tannery, a foundry, grist, flour and woolen mills, hotels,
professional offices, stores and churches. By 1853 the trade in grain and lumber, the bustling activity on Yonge Street and
the Holland River and the building of the new railway made Holland Landing one of the busiest centres in the watershed.
History of East Gwillimbury
The Town of East Gwillimbury
was incorporated in 1850. Governor John Graves Simcoe named the area in honour of his wife, whose maiden name was Gwillim.
In the late 1700's, Governor Simcoe was looking for the best route north from York (now Toronto) to the British naval posts
on Georgian Bay. To assist in his search for the best route, he commissioned the first survey of East Gwillimbury in 1800.
Many of the early settlers were United Empire Loyalists and Quakers who were attracted to the area
by grants of land and the ability to practice their faith in peace. Hamlets sprung up throughout East Gwillimbury due, in
part, for a need for shops, churches and schools. Development occurred in five areas - Holland Landing, River Drive Park,
Sharon, Queensville and Mount Albert. Early settlement of these areas dates back to the late seventeen hundreds. The historical
atmosphere of the Town is enhanced by the many attractive historic buildings still in use today.
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