The town of Stratford owes much of its notoriety to The Stratford Festival of Canada which began in 1953. Today it is ranked among the three great English speaking theatres in the world. The season spans 30 weeks and features Shakespeare, classical and contemporary productions in four indoor theatres.
In 1832 the Canada Company, a large private land settlement agency, initiated the development of " Little Thames" as the market centre for the eastern Huron Tract. By 1835 the community had a sawmill and grist mill as well as a tavern. With the arrival of the railway in the mid 1800’s Stratford was transformed into a bustling and thriving community. In 1875, with a population of 9,000, Stratford was incorporated as a city.
Today Stratford boasts an extensive parks system which encompasses 1000 acres throughout the city with plenty of room for picnicking or enjoying the many sights around town.
Make sure your visit includes a trip to the Stratford Perth Museum at 270 Water Street. This interactive museum is housed in the former Stratford Normal School and depicts the history of Perth and Stratford. The museum even includes a childrens area with a 1827 printing press.
