The Founding of Cardinal
Text from the plaque
The grist-mill built at Point Cardinal by Hugh Munro about 1796 fostered the development here of a small settlement. A sawmill and store were later erected, and in 1837 a post-office, "Edwardsburgh", was established. In 1858, attracted by abundant water-power and the operation of the Galops shipping canal (1846) and the Grand Trunk Railway (1855), William T. Benson and Thomas Aspden founded the Canada Starch Works. Its prosperity stimulated the growth of Elgin, as Edwardsburgh was also known, and in 1864 the hamlet, with 300 inhabitants, contained several other prominent businesses, notably the James McLatchie foundry. The community was incorporated as the Village of Cardinal, with a population of 800, by a by-law which became effective in 1880.
Transcribed from the marker, not summarised.
Find the place
The United Counties of Leeds & Grenville
The Township of Edwardsburgh/Cardinal
In Cardinal, at the southwest corner of
Road 2 and Bridge Street
on a concrete block facing away from the road
N 44 47.346 W 75 22.928
Recorded June 2004. Check current access before visiting.
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Where it stands
Visitors' notes
August 6, 2012
Cardinal was always my favorite place to visit as a kid. As I grew up it felt more like a home away from home. Beautiful place to live near family and friends. I hope to come visit again next year.