Utterson, Ontario

"We're Long on Hospitality"

Soon Utterson would figure still more prominently as a transportation hub. The “danger” being discussed in communities situated on water, at that time, was the concern about steamship navigation thru established waterways being usurped by the new railway. The Canadian National Railway came north and Utterson was chosen, like other communities to have their own Station, telegraph office and station master. Regular steam engines came in their day, and whistles became familiar to residents, waiting passengers and those shipping freight cargo. 

The whistle tradition lives on today! Commercial transport reached a fevered pitch with commodities such as lumber and livestock from the surrounding areas being amassed and bound for other places. This was no small feat, as roads were not how we are accustomed to today. Utterson’s Long Lake had a famous floating bridge (1884-1916) that carried cattle, lumber, and the odd Model T. Paintings abound of that bridge including the black and white pictures and it even generated a post card produced by T. Brown, photographer.

Reeves and Stephenson Ward Councils administered this township eventually. Distinguished locals who served included Charles Weir, with the final Reeve, Gordon Snell before its amalgamation to Town of Huntsville in the early 1970’s, (others served as well). Many Councillor’s served yearly terms over those years; Dalton B. Insley, Thelma Brock (nee Parrot) and... The Church, originally Presbyterian, became United and it’s first roll call was in 1901. It stood on the hill in the village across from the Utterson Hall. Many a function took place both in conjunction with the United Church Women Institute and the hall: Famous were the Turkey Suppers which were known far and wide. People from Toronto came to dine for just this day’s supper. Great cooks began the tradition, women like Vesta Hampson, Evelyn Marshall, Edith Weir, Marjorie Insley and others were the reason, additionally many adults and youth also contributed to the accompanying great dining service. Councilmen and husbands made sure the Coffee and Tea was hot and always available. This Utterson benefited a lot of people who lived here and other hamlets through their generous spirit.  

This hospitable village drew the talents of adults and youth from all around to become famous in the Muskoka Georgian Bay Area for it’s Badminton Club. Many regional competitions were attended, and the bounty brought home trophy’s in youth singles, doubles, and mixed doubles. More recent participants trophy’s can be seen in the hall today. Perhaps one reason we were so great was the sloped, low ceiling in the Hall that was a handicap to better players? Whose kidding, it was a great deal about the Community leaders who coached us and provided the transportation everywhere. Our own competitions made us shine as well!

Utterson and Stephenson celebrated the Centennial together in 1967. The Province of Ontario and Government of Canada honoured all the people who contributed throughout the years. Hence, the slogan: “We’re Long on Hospitality” is fitting. All endeavours this little village took on to help others within our community and to a great extent those area surrounding it.

Come along, I entreat you to join in the story about here. We’ll deep dive, no not to the bottom of Long’s Lake, although that might be interesting, sometimes we’ll fly high as part of the interest show, include wonders to ponder and those things that may bring a smile or an AH Hah! Most of all Enjoy, some times it may bring tears, laughter, oh really moments and much more!