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History of Kenora, Ontario, Canada
Journey back in time to Kenora, Ontario, Canada
Explore Kenora, Ontario, Canada! Uncover its rich history and discover the stories of the people who once called it home. Dive into old newspaper articles, vintage pictures, postcards, and genealogy to learn more about this fascinating town.Do You Have Kenora Ancestry? Share YOUR Family Story!

The Hudson’s Bay Company built a trading post on Old Fort Island (1790), and lumbering in the locality was followed by a gold-mining boom (1890–91). The settlement was incorporated as a Manitoba town in 1882 when it became a divisional railroad point, but it was awarded to Ontario following a territorial dispute. It became an Ontario township in 1883 and a town in 1892. Kenora derived its name from the first two letters of Keewatin (its sister town), nearby Norman, and Rat Portage, an early name given to the town because of the migration of muskrats between the lake and the Winnipeg River.
britannica.com
Explore even more about Kenora, Ontario, Canada. Keep reading!
Discover Unique Gift Ideas and Genealogy Resources From or Related to KENORA

CHRISTMAS - FRENCH CANADIAN Coffee Mug – Celebrate Family, Heritage, and Holiday Cheer
Sip Christmas the way your ancestors would have loved it with this festive French-Canadian coffee mug. Featuring the elegant greeting “Joyeuses fêtes de Noël à vous et vos proches!” (Merry Christmas to you and your loved ones), it’s perfect for genealogy enthusiasts, Francophiles, and anyone who cherishes family traditions. Joyeuses fêtes de Noël – literally “Happy Christmas holidays,” which is a common way to wish someone a merry Christmas and holiday season in French. à vous et vos proches – “to you and your loved ones,” adding a friendly, inclusive touch.

CANADA - Canadian Roots Genealogy Coffee Mug - Curling and Olympics
"My ancestors came from Canada. That explains a lot about my love for curling and watching the Olympics!"

CANADA - Canadian Roots Ceramic Coffee Mug - Maple Syrup and Apologies Edition - Genealogy
Embrace your Canadian heritage with our "My ancestors came from Canada" ceramic coffee mug! Perfect for sipping your favorite brew while reflecting on your roots, this mug features a moose sampling maple syrup and a humorous caption that reads, "My ancestors came from Canada. That explains a lot about my love for maple syrup and apologizing!" Whether you're enjoying your morning coffee or unwinding with an evening tea, this mug is sure to bring a smile to your face.

ONTARIO - My Ancestors Came from Ontario Mug – Funny Canadian Genealogy Coffee Cup for Hockey Fans, Maple Syrup Lovers & Toque Wearers
If your family roots trace back to Ontario, this mug probably explains you perfectly. Featuring the proudly accurate caption, “My ancestors came from Ontario. That explains a lot about my love for hockey, maple syrup and wearing toques into April!”, this funny genealogy mug celebrates classic Canadian habits with a wink and a grin. Perfect for genealogy enthusiasts, family history lovers, hockey fans, and anyone who considers maple syrup a staple and cold weather a lifestyle.
Discover Kenora: History, News, Travel, and Stories

1881 - Église de Notre Dame du Portage established at Kenora
www.gcatholic.org
www.gcatholic.org
1881 - August 15, 1881 - Rat Portage War
Macdonald Government's “Act to provide for the extension of the boundaries of the Province of Manitoba” (44 V, c14); goes into effect; extended the eastern boundary of Manitoba to a "line drawn due north from where the westerly boundary of the province of Ontario intersects the boundary dividing Canada from the United States". The Governments of Manitoba and the Dominion understood that Manitoba’s eastern boundary lay near Port Arthur (Thunder Bay). The Government of Ontario, on the other hand, felt that her boundary did not end until the western most reaches of the Lake of the Woods, near Rat Portage (Kenora). A war over control of the territory will last until August 11, 1884, when the Queen's Privy Council awards the entire parcel of land to Ontario.
canadachannel.ca/ todayincanadianhistory/ index.php/ August_15
Macdonald Government's “Act to provide for the extension of the boundaries of the Province of Manitoba” (44 V, c14); goes into effect; extended the eastern boundary of Manitoba to a "line drawn due north from where the westerly boundary of the province of Ontario intersects the boundary dividing Canada from the United States". The Governments of Manitoba and the Dominion understood that Manitoba’s eastern boundary lay near Port Arthur (Thunder Bay). The Government of Ontario, on the other hand, felt that her boundary did not end until the western most reaches of the Lake of the Woods, near Rat Portage (Kenora). A war over control of the territory will last until August 11, 1884, when the Queen's Privy Council awards the entire parcel of land to Ontario.
canadachannel.ca/ todayincanadianhistory/ index.php/ August_15
Here's a list of places to go and things to do in Kenora:
Lake of the Woods: This massive lake is the heart of Kenora, offering endless opportunities for boating, fishing, swimming, and water sports. You can rent a boat, kayak, or paddleboard to explore the crystal-clear waters and numerous islands.
Rushing River Provincial Park: Just a short drive from Kenora, this park is a haven for hikers and nature lovers. Explore the walking trails and enjoy a picnic by the waterfalls. It's a fantastic spot for birdwatching and wildlife photography.
Coney Island: Accessible by boat, Coney Island is a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of town. It's a perfect spot for a peaceful day of sunbathing, picnicking, and swimming.
Mount Evergreen Ski Hill: If you visit Kenora during the winter months, you can enjoy skiing, snowboarding, and tubing at Mount Evergreen. It's a family-friendly ski hill with well-groomed slopes.
Lake of the Woods Brewing Company: Sample some local brews and delicious food at this popular brewery in Kenora. They... Read MORE...
Lake of the Woods: This massive lake is the heart of Kenora, offering endless opportunities for boating, fishing, swimming, and water sports. You can rent a boat, kayak, or paddleboard to explore the crystal-clear waters and numerous islands.
Rushing River Provincial Park: Just a short drive from Kenora, this park is a haven for hikers and nature lovers. Explore the walking trails and enjoy a picnic by the waterfalls. It's a fantastic spot for birdwatching and wildlife photography.
Coney Island: Accessible by boat, Coney Island is a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of town. It's a perfect spot for a peaceful day of sunbathing, picnicking, and swimming.
Mount Evergreen Ski Hill: If you visit Kenora during the winter months, you can enjoy skiing, snowboarding, and tubing at Mount Evergreen. It's a family-friendly ski hill with well-groomed slopes.
Lake of the Woods Brewing Company: Sample some local brews and delicious food at this popular brewery in Kenora. They... Read MORE...
Discover YOUR Roots: Kenora Ancestry
Ancestors Who Were Born or Died in Kenora, Ontario, Canada
We currently have information about 9 ancestors who were born or died in Kenora.View Them Now (sorted by year of birth)
Ancestors Who Were Married in Kenora, Ontario, Canada
We currently have information about ancestors who were married in Kenora.View Them Now
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