History of Chatham-Kent, Ontario

The former city of Chatham began as a naval dockyard in the 1790`s, as it straddles the Thames River. In the War of 1812, the Battle of the Thames took place between Moraviantown and Thamesville, near Chatham. During the 19th century, the area was part of the Underground Railroad. As a result, Chatham is now part of the African-Canadian Heritage Tour. Uncle Tom`s Cabin Historic Site is a museum of the Dawn Settlement, establisherd in 1841 by Josiah Henson as refuge for the many slaves who escaped to Canada from the United States.

Chatham-Kent's Demographics

Of the current population of Chatham-Kent, 9.5% were born outside Canada, with 70 countries of origin represented. Recent immigrants are only 1.5% of the population, compared to a Canadian average of 6.2%.

Chatham-Kent's Climate

Geography of Chatham-Kent, Ontario

Chatham-Kent's Government

Chatham-Kent is governed by Mayor Diane Gagner and Councillors representing each of the six wards in the municipality. MP's, Bev Shipley and Dave Van Kesteren are both representatives of the Conservative Party of Canada.

Chatham-Kent's Economy and Industry

Chatham-Kent has an increasingly diverse economy, with a base in the agricultural and automotive sectors. Chatham`s roots in the automotive sector go back to Gray-Dort Motors Ltd., one of Canada`s earliest automobile manufacturers. In 1996, Chatham became the home of Commercial Alcohols, which is the largest ethanol plant in Canada, and one of the largest in the world. It produces ethanol for industrial, medical, and beverage uses. Chatham is home to the headquarters of Union Gas, a natural gas utility. Union Gas is a Duke Energy company. RM Classic Cars, and automobile restoration company and auction house, is located in Chatham. The nickname 'The Classic Car Capital of Canada' comes from this company and numerous related community events.