Mennonite families from Pennsylvania settled the Waterloo region of Ontario during the early nineteenth century, establishing the basis for the rich history and culture of this part of Central Canada. More recently, the cultural diversity of the Waterloo area has been enhanced by immigrants from all over the planet. These immigrants are drawn to the prosperous and diverse economy of the region, and to the two highly respected Universities in the area.

The first pioneers of the Waterloo area are honored in a monument called Waterloo Pioneer Memorial Tower. Mennonite pioneers that arrived in the area around 1800 to 1803 were the original settlers, settling on the banks of the Grand River, which provided very productive land for farming. The monument was created back in 1923 on one acre near Doon, just east of the Grand River. The tower's spire is uniquely Swiss in look, giving reflection to the homeland of the Swiss Mennonites.

Doon Heritage Crossroads is a place where you will be able to see Waterloo County just as it was back in 1914. Come by to witness the daily lives of people back then, along with their businesses, homes, and farms.

Joseph Schneider Haus Museum and Gallery recreates life as it was in the area in the 1850s. This is the house that Joseph and Barbara Schneider built in 1816. They were among the early Mennonite pioneers who trekked to the new frontier from Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, in the early 1800s.

Within the Waterloo Region, one of the well known local artists was Homer Watson. Nicknamed the "Man of Doon" after the location of his home and studio, Homer Watson is now commemorated in the Homer Watson House & Gallery. There you can see his studio where he worked; you can also attend workshops, classes, and art exhibitions.

The tenth Prime Minister of Canada, and also its longest serving, was William Lyon Mackenzie King. He was born in Berlin, prior to its name change to Kitchener in WWI, in 1874. The home where he spent his boyhood has been restored at Woodside National Historic Site and the 4.65 hectares are now returned to their 1890's glory.

Castle Kilbride was constructed in Baden in the year 1877 by James Livingston. He named it after his place of birth which is located in Scotland. When viewed from the road, it dominates its surrounding scenery because of its clean Italianate design topped by a towering belvedere. Its beautiful exterior appearance, however, is outshined by its magnificent interior design. The interior decor, in and of itself, establishes it as a work of art of international importance.

If you are looking for a home in the Kitchener, Waterloo, Cambridge or Elmira areas contact Scott Miller Kitchener Real Estate. More Online promotion by Linknet.