The beginning of Owen Sound can be traced to the 1840 historical
meeting, in a small forest clearing, between surveyor Charles Rankin and
land agent John Telfer. Owen Sound: The Port City begins with the
Native Peoples of the area and moves through pioneer settlement to the
creation of a city in this more northerly area of central Ontario. The
influence of Georgian Bay and the beginning of marine commerce, combined
with the coming of the railway, led to rapid industrial growth. The
memorable stories of interesting personalities, determined entrepreneurs
and local rivalries create a compelling look at Owen Sound both past and
present. For the citizens of Owen Sound, adversity became a challenge to
be overcome and transformed into prosperity.