History of Windsor, Essex, Ontario, Canada

Windsor, Ont. - AP - Six persons were reported killed and at least 50 injured in an explosion that collapsed a department store in downtown Windsor today.

One rescuer said, "There's lots of bodies in there. There were lots taken out already."

The building blown down was that of the Metropolitan stores.

Among the injured was JOSEPH HALFORD, 31, manager of the store. He said a gas furnace was being installed in the store when it suddenly blew up.

Autos Are Crushed.
Small fires started throughout the building. High tension wires snapped and fell crackling onto the debris.

About a half dozen cars were crushed by tons of brick.

Women began screaming "Fire, fire!" when they saw the sparks and flames start in the rubble.

"It is unbelievable - fantastic," said one observer.

Windsor is across the Detroit River from Detroit.

Windsor, Ont, incorporated as a city in 1892, population 210 891 (2011c), 216 473 (2006c). The City of Windsor is Canada's southernmost city and is located on the DETROIT RIVER in the extreme southwest corner of the province. Lying directly south of Detroit on the rich agricultural peninsula nestled between Lakes ERIE and ST CLAIR, Windsor is an international gateway through which millions of foreign visitors enter the country each year.

Windsor has grown from the coalescing of a chain of separate communities along the Detroit River and Lake St Clair and from spreading inland to the south, and today its Census Metropolitan Area includes the towns of Tecumseh, Essex and LAKESHORE; the village of St Clair Beach; and the townships of Sandwich West and South Maidstone, Rochester and Colchester North.

Settlement
The area was visited by Jesuit missionaries and French explorers in the 17th century, and permanent settlement followed Cadillac's founding of Detroit. The first land grants ...

Visit Windsor's Riverfront: Take a stroll along the beautiful Riverfront Trail, enjoy the scenic views of the Detroit River, and check out the Peace Fountain.

Explore Point Pelee National Park: Known for its biodiversity, Point Pelee is a haven for nature lovers. Don't miss the iconic Point Pelee Pavilion and the boardwalk.

Windsor Sculpture Park: This outdoor gallery features over 30 large-scale contemporary sculptures along the waterfront. It's a unique blend of art and nature.

Pelee Island Winery: Take a wine tour and tasting at one of the region's renowned wineries. Enjoy local wines and learn about the winemaking process.

Sandpoint Beach: For a relaxing day by the water, head to Sandpoint Beach. It's a great spot for picnics, swimming, and enjoying the sun.

Canadian Club Brand Center: Explore the history of Canadian Club Whisky at Hiram Walker & Sons Distillery. Take a guided tour to learn about the whisky-making process and the city's prohibition-era smuggling...