The History

The settlement of Atwood dates back to 1854. In the early days, the town was known as "Elma Centre" and "Newry Station". Settler John Binning Purcell was the first to arrive and create a permanent colonial settler residence in the area slightly to the north (now identified as Listowel).

The majority of early settlers in and around Atwood were of Protestant Irish origin. By 1866, the population of the area had increased to 800 and the settlement became an incorporated Village. By 1871 gravel roads extended in several directions, to Mitchell and to Stratford, but were not adequate for moving products to distant markets.

In 1871 the Wellington, Grey and Bruce Railway extended its line to Listowel. It was joined in 1873 by a second railway, the Stratford and Huron Railway, and the area soon became an important shipping hub. The arrival of the railway speeded development. In 1877, the first elementary school opened in the area, and two years later, the first high school opened.

In 1880 a gas company was organized, and began supplying lighting to the residents. By 1902 the population of the area had increased to 2,661, and a woolen mill, a planing mill, a flour mill, a brewery and a dairy products exporting company were operating in the area.

The countryside around Atwood has always been prime agricultural land and is known for mixed farming, dairying and hog production. In the past, it was well-known for its numerous cheese and butter factories, some of which are still in operation. Listowel was also known for its furniture production.

The pioneering spirit can still be seen in Atwood and the neighbouring urban centres of Listowel, Mitchell and Milverton. In modern times, Atwood has become a favourite residential community for people who work in the busy commercial centres of Kitchener, Woodstock and London, and who love the peace and quiet, as well as the stunning natural beauty of the area.