Leamington Overview
Leamington, one of the southernmost towns in Canada has a population of 29,680 (2021 Census) and forms the second largest urban centre in Windsor-Essex County after Windsor, Ontario. Leamington lies south of Highway 401 in the southwesetern corner of Ontario, and is about 50 km southeast of Windsor via Highway 3. Leamington is famous for its locally grown tomatoes, and nearby Point Pelee National Park,jutting into Lake Erie, is ecologically significant to migrating birds.
History of Leamington
Leamington, located in southwestern Ontario, Canada, was first settled in the early 19th century. It officially became a village in 1876. The town is known as the “Tomato Capital of Canada,” with its strong agricultural heritage and very favorable climate has made it a hub for greenhouse farming. Leamington greenhouses also grow peppers, and other crops.
The H. J. Heinz Company established a factory in Leamington in 1908, contributing to the town’s reputation as a major processing center for tomatoes. The factory processed ketchup and other tomato products for many years.
Leamington has diversified its economy over the years into manufacturing, tourism. Its top attraction is the development of the nearby Point Pelee National Park, a unique ecological gem and a major tourist attraction. Point Pelee is a narrow peninsula extending into Lake Erie, that was formed by glacial action during the last ice age, and is the southernmost point of mainland Canada. Point Pelee was designated a national park in 1918, making it the first national park in Canada established for conservation purposes. The park is renowned for its diverse ecosystems, including marshes, forests, and meadows. It serves as a crucial migratory bird stopover point and is a haven for birdwatchers. The park’s delicate ecosystems are carefully preserved, and visitors can explore its trails, boardwalks, and beaches.