Grand Valley’s History
The history of Grand Valley starts back in Ireland. In the wake of the Potato Famine of 1845-1849, many Irish people emigrated to Canada and the United States. Elias B. Grey of County Louth in Ireland was fortunate enough to leave Ireland during the famine and survive. He set down his roots in Proton in 1849 and claimed ground there. He then called the village Grand Valley after his hometown in Ireland.
The first location of Grand Valley was known as Mays Corner; this was where many pioneer families settled around the area of the 230 sideroad (now known as the Grand Valley road). To the northeast of this area became known as Mayburne. The village then was called McDowells Corners, before being known as Grand Valley. In 1850, a survey of the land of Proton and settlement then began in what is now the Grand Valley area. They found that the area was home to many swamps and bogs.
According to the Grand Valley Herald, the population in September 1882 was almost 800 people. They explained at that time there were three churches, three sawmills, a gristmill, a wool factory, a tannery for leather, many general stores and blacksmiths, and three places that one could buy grain. It was in 1886 that a council was finally made, and they incorporated Grand Valley as a village. By this time, there were 64 businesses in the entire village.
In 1870, the city of Toronto surveyed the land to see where a railway line could go. In 1873, the railway was completed, and the station became known as Grand Valley Station.
In January 2000, the Township of Proton (Grand Valley) and the Township of Egremont were integrated to create the Township of Southgate. This is in the southeast corner of Grey County. In the 1960s, Walter and Phylis Walls purchased the Grand Valley Herald (current owners) and is one of the last independently owned newspapers in the area.
Community and Culture
This year’s Square Foot Show has changed a little because of COVID-19. To avoid a crowded venue, they have moved this event online. They hope that you will still be able to enjoy this event with family and friends, but now from the comfort of your homes. Even though they have moved this event online, the artists who are taking part are still excited to bring you a fabulous show as always. They already have a confirmed 100 artists who will take part in the event. All you have to do is visit their website to view the wonderful selection of square foot paintings! Then you can select what you like and check out from there. They will provide a safe curbside pickup at the gallery or have the paintings shipped to you.
Every Thursday there will be a new film playing for you to come and enjoy at Meaford Hall. It will be one film every Thursday, starting at 4 pm. In the time of COVID, Meaford Hall has put measures in place to keep this event safe for everyone. This includes masks being mandatory, all seating is socially distanced, and there are many cleaning protocols in place to make sure that the area is disinfected properly.
Boughs & Bows
This is an event put on by Grey Roots Museum and Archives at the Moreston Heritage Village. Take time with the family to walk the trails of the village and learn about the holiday traditions of the past. As well, the museum is open for exploration to everyone.
This is an experience that has been made physically distanced for COVID, so they require all visitors to book a time slot for their visit. Bring along a hot beverage to drink as you wander the trails!
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