Westport Beginnings
The International Buckle Factory was just one of the many factories and industries that were prominent in the Municipality of the Village of Westport during the 1800’s and early 1900’s. From Fredenburgh’s Furniture Factory (The Red Mill) to sash and door factories, foundries and milling companies to other businesses such as jewelry stores, bakeries, general stores and numerous hotels whose existence proved the prosperity that was Westport at the turn of the 20th century. With the decline in manufacturing through fires and financial hardships, topped off by the last run of the Brockville & Westport Railway in the 1950’s , Westport now exists mainly as a top-notch tourist destination in a picturesque location, easily accessible by boat via the Rideau Canal, car, and air.
If you are visiting the village of Westport during the summer months, be sure to make the Rideau District Museum one of the stops on your vacation. Housed in a former blacksmith shop, coffin and furniture manufacturer, boat and carriage works and residence, the building itself is brimming with history.
Vintage Westport is presented by the Rideau District Museum. Check out their website or visit the museum in Westport.
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