The History of Burlington, Ontario

Burlington, Ontario, is a vibrant city located at the western end of Lake Ontario. As part of the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area (GTHA), it has developed into a thriving community known for its quality of life, natural landscapes, and economic opportunities. However, its history is deeply rooted in the region's indigenous cultures and early European settlement.

Indigenous Roots

Before European settlers arrived, Burlington was inhabited by Indigenous peoples, particularly the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation, who were part of the Ojibwe group. These peoples had lived in the area for thousands of years, sustained by the abundant resources of Lake Ontario and its surrounding forests. The area that would become Burlington was rich in wildlife, fish, and plants, which allowed these Indigenous communities to thrive.

The land held great cultural and spiritual significance to the Mississaugas and other Indigenous groups. Their extensive trade networks connected them to other First Nations across North America, and they lived harmoniously with the natural environment, shaping the landscape in ways that would later influence the development of European settlements.

Early European Settlement

European settlement began in earnest in the late 18th century after the American Revolutionary War. Many United Empire Loyalists, people who had remained loyal to Britain during the war, sought refuge in Canada. The British government offered them land grants in what is now Southern Ontario. One of the earliest settlers in the Burlington area was Joseph Brant (Thayendanegea), a Mohawk military leader and a loyalist who played a key role in negotiating land for the Six Nations, which included portions of present-day Burlington.

In 1792, the British government created the province of Upper Canada (now Ontario), and the land was divided into townships. The Burlington area was part of Nelson Township, which was surveyed and laid out in the early 19th century. It was named after the famous British admiral, Lord Nelson. Farming became the primary economic activity during these early years, as settlers cleared the land and established small communities.

The Growth of Transportation and Industry

The early 19th century saw significant growth in Burlington, largely due to its strategic location. The construction of Dundas Street (now Highway 5) in the early 1800s was crucial for connecting the townships along the shore of Lake Ontario. The completion of the Burlington Canal in 1826 further enhanced the area’s importance by creating a navigable passage between Lake Ontario and Burlington Bay (now Hamilton Harbour). This canal facilitated trade and transportation, helping Burlington grow as a small but significant port community.

In the mid-19th century, the development of railways had a profound effect on the town’s economy. The Great Western Railway, which passed through the region, brought increased access to markets and further attracted settlers and businesses. This connection to larger urban centers like Hamilton and Toronto helped Burlington shift from an agricultural to an industrial economy, although agriculture, particularly fruit farming, remained vital to the community for many years.

The Emergence of a Modern City

The late 19th and early 20th centuries saw Burlington transition from a rural settlement to a more urbanized community. In 1873, Burlington became a village, and by 1915, it was incorporated as a town. Its proximity to Hamilton, Toronto, and the growing industrial centers of Southern Ontario allowed it to benefit from regional economic growth.

During this period, Burlington was known for its prosperous agricultural sector, particularly fruit growing. The area became famous for its apple orchards, strawberry farms, and vineyards, and it hosted annual events like the Burlington Strawberry Festival, which drew visitors from across the region.

Post-War Expansion

Burlington's population and economy exploded in the post-World War II era, a time of rapid suburbanization throughout North America. The completion of the Queen Elizabeth Way (QEW) in 1939 made travel between Toronto, Hamilton, and Niagara Falls easier and spurred residential development in Burlington. The QEW turned Burlington into a desirable suburban area for people working in larger nearby cities.

By the 1960s and 1970s, Burlington was experiencing a population boom, as families moved to the city to enjoy the benefits of suburban living—more space, access to parks, and high-quality schools. Burlington's waterfront also became an attractive feature, drawing visitors and new residents alike. By 1974, Burlington was officially designated a city, and it continued to grow both residentially and economically.

Burlington Today

Today, Burlington is a prosperous and diverse city with a population exceeding 183,000. It is consistently ranked as one of the best places to live in Canada due to its strong economy, low crime rates, and abundance of recreational opportunities. The city is part of the Halton Region and benefits from its proximity to the major urban hubs of Toronto and Hamilton while retaining its own unique character.

Burlington’s economy has shifted from its early agricultural and industrial base to a more diversified economy that includes advanced manufacturing, retail, technology, and professional services. The city is also home to many corporate headquarters and boasts a thriving entrepreneurial community.

One of the city’s most prominent features is its dedication to preserving green space. Burlington is home to the Royal Botanical Gardens, a major natural attraction that spans over 2,700 acres and draws visitors from around the world. The city's location between Lake Ontario and the Niagara Escarpment, a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve, provides residents with easy access to nature trails, conservation areas, and outdoor activities.

From its Indigenous roots to its development as a suburban community, Burlington’s history is one of transformation and growth. Its strategic location along Lake Ontario has played a central role in its development, first as a small farming community and later as a bustling modern city. Today, Burlington continues to thrive, blending its historical heritage with the opportunities of the future.