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Kemptville
Kemptville
from Wikipedia

Kemptville is a community located in the Municipality of North Grenville in Eastern Ontario, Canada in the northernmost part of the United Counties of Leeds and Grenville. It is located approximately 56 km (35 mi) south of the downtown core of Ottawa and 2.5 to 3 km (1.6 to 1.9 mi) south of the Rideau River.

Key Information

The community can be accessed by Highway 416, also known as the Veterans Memorial Highway, which was completed in 1999, and from Leeds and Grenville Road 43 (formerly Highway 43).

Kemptville is the largest community in North Grenville, with about 69% of North Grenville's population.[1] Five elementary schools are located in the town — Holy Cross Catholic School, Kemptville Public School, South Branch Elementary School, Académie Catholique Notre Dame and Rivière Rideau— two high schools — North Grenville District High School and St. Michael Catholic High School — three parks, and two hotels. The residential area is generally located in the south and east parts of the community. The main streets are Rideau, Prescott, Clothier and Van Buren streets. A creek named Kemptville Creek divides Kemptville in the southeast, where the least part of Kemptville is found. The creek begins southwest of Kemptville and empties 4 km (2.5 mi) NE into the Rideau River. Much of Kemptville is forested, especially east and north of the community. Farmland covers the rest of the area, especially the west and the southern part of the community, with some exceptions. There are some homes lying next to the farmland.

Map of the town of Kemptville

History

[edit]
Kemptville's Prescott Street

The small town of Kemptville began to emerge from the forest in the township of Oxford when Lyman Clothier, a resident of New England, bought 100 acres (40 ha) of land in Concession 3 of Oxford-on-Rideau Township from a John Byce in 1819 for 75. Mr. Clothier began construction of a saw mill with the assistance of his four sons, and they built two dwellings in what is now Kemptville. This mill was extremely important for the settling of the community, as in order to construct a crude dwelling, lumber was required - and so, the mill began to facilitate the construction of dwellings for settlers all over Oxford Township.

The Clothiers placed some grinding stones in the lower part of their saw mill. As a result of this, rather than taking their grain to a site on the Saint Lawrence River, which would be a daunting hike in the best of conditions, or grinding the grain in an extremely ineffective and crude fashion, the settlers could now take it to this grist mill. After this was established, a blacksmith's shop was established, run also by the Clothiers. A schoolhouse was established in 1823, which served the surrounding communities for many years. The first physician arrived in the community the year after the school was established.

The small village was expanding quickly and the residents of the region were beginning to think about officially giving a dignified name to the location in which they lived. Initially, the community was known as "Clothier's Mill". So, during a public meeting at this time, the name "Kemptville" was suggested, to honour Sir James Kempt, the Governor of Upper Canada in 1829, who was said to have camped on the banks of the Rideau River near the settlement. The name was adopted in 1829 and the first map with the name "Kemptville" was produced in 1830.[2] The post office was established in 1831.[3]

Timeline

[edit]
  • 1791 - Oxford-On-Rideau surveyed
  • 1819 - Lyman Clothier buys 100 acres on lot 27, Concession 3 of Oxford-on-Rideau Township
  • 1820s - Clothier family open sawmill, blacksmiths shop, and carding machine for weaving
  • 1820 - First hotel opened
  • 1821 - First mill is opened. First store and post office follow shortly thereafter
  • 1826 - St. James Anglican church parish is formed
  • 1829 - "Kemptville" is formally acknowledged as the town's name; Holy Cross Parish is established
  • 1832 - Methodist Church is erected and another hotel opens
  • 1838 - Another carding machine and saw mill open
  • 1843 - First steamboat is built in Kemptville by Lyman Clothier Jr.; the Amanda named after his daughter.
  • 1844 - The first grammar school is built on Clothier Street
  • 1847 - Baptist Church is built on the North Main Street
  • 1848 - Another mill is built which also acted as a distillery for a time
  • 1851-52 - Population of Upper Canada: 952,004
  • 1851 - The first Presbyterian Church is built; first stamp the Threepenny Beaver is released in Canada
  • 1854 - The Bytown and Prescott Railway comes to Kemptville allowing for easier access to goods and trade
  • 1855 - Kemptville Fire Department is formed; Kemptville's first paper The Progressionis hits the streets
  • 1857 - Kemptville becomes incorporated
  • 1861 - Population of Kemptville is 1059
  • 1869 - Sellecks Mill is built as an egg factory; the New Methodist Church is built
  • 1870 - First library is formed
  • 1872 - The Great Fire which destroys most of downtown Kemptville
  • 1874 - The Kemptville Academy is built as the central school; the town hall is built; a hose tower is built to help combat fire in town
  • 1879 - Memorial Church of Kemptville is built
  • 1881 - First steam engine is purchased for the Fire Department
  • 1885 - Bakery is built on 115 Clothier Street East
  • 1888 - Holy Cross Church designed by Joseph Connolly is built; the district High School is built; The Salvation Army comes to Kemptville; electricity comes to Kemptville via a mill which lights the Oddfellows hall for a fair
  • 1895 - Bank of Ottawa opens (later becoming the Bank of Nova Scotia)
  • 1899 - The Horticultural Society is formed in Kemptville
  • 1845-1900 - The rise of the service clubs
  • 1910 - A fire destroys part of Asa Street
  • 1936 - North Grenville District High School opens on Prescott Street
  • 1999 - St. Michael Catholic High School opens on County Road 43
  • 2012 - North Grenville District High School opens on Concession Road
  • 2017 - Kemptville celebrates its 160th Anniversary
  • 2018 - North Grenville elects its first female mayor

Climate

[edit]
Climate data for Kemptville (1991−2020 normals, extremes 1928–present)
Month Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Year
Record high °C (°F) 15.5
(59.9)
16.1
(61.0)
26.7
(80.1)
30.3
(86.5)
34.8
(94.6)
38.3
(100.9)
36.7
(98.1)
38.3
(100.9)
36.1
(97.0)
28.3
(82.9)
23.3
(73.9)
17.8
(64.0)
38.3
(100.9)
Mean daily maximum °C (°F) −4.3
(24.3)
−2.4
(27.7)
3.4
(38.1)
11.4
(52.5)
19.3
(66.7)
24.3
(75.7)
26.8
(80.2)
25.6
(78.1)
21.3
(70.3)
13.6
(56.5)
6.3
(43.3)
−0.9
(30.4)
12.0
(53.6)
Daily mean °C (°F) −9.1
(15.6)
−7.7
(18.1)
−1.8
(28.8)
5.9
(42.6)
13.1
(55.6)
18.3
(64.9)
20.8
(69.4)
19.7
(67.5)
15.4
(59.7)
8.6
(47.5)
2.0
(35.6)
−4.9
(23.2)
6.7
(44.1)
Mean daily minimum °C (°F) −14.0
(6.8)
−12.9
(8.8)
−7.0
(19.4)
0.3
(32.5)
6.9
(44.4)
12.3
(54.1)
14.8
(58.6)
13.7
(56.7)
9.4
(48.9)
3.6
(38.5)
−2.3
(27.9)
−8.8
(16.2)
1.3
(34.3)
Record low °C (°F) −38.3
(−36.9)
−39.4
(−38.9)
−32.0
(−25.6)
−15.6
(3.9)
−6.7
(19.9)
−0.6
(30.9)
3.0
(37.4)
−0.6
(30.9)
−6.5
(20.3)
−12.2
(10.0)
−23.9
(−11.0)
−35.6
(−32.1)
−39.4
(−38.9)
Average precipitation mm (inches) 69.5
(2.74)
52.2
(2.06)
62.1
(2.44)
87.7
(3.45)
72.6
(2.86)
82.2
(3.24)
97.8
(3.85)
75.0
(2.95)
82.7
(3.26)
92.4
(3.64)
79.2
(3.12)
71.8
(2.83)
925.2
(36.43)
Average rainfall mm (inches) 23.5
(0.93)
22.6
(0.89)
25.4
(1.00)
70.5
(2.78)
84.4
(3.32)
79.9
(3.15)
93.9
(3.70)
87.5
(3.44)
92.3
(3.63)
78.5
(3.09)
67.4
(2.65)
30.9
(1.22)
756.7
(29.79)
Average snowfall cm (inches) 40.7
(16.0)
40.6
(16.0)
34.0
(13.4)
12.2
(4.8)
0.4
(0.2)
0.0
(0.0)
0.0
(0.0)
0.0
(0.0)
0.0
(0.0)
4.4
(1.7)
21.5
(8.5)
45.1
(17.8)
199.0
(78.3)
Average precipitation days (≥ 0.2 mm) 17.6 13.3 12.4 13.8 12.9 12.6 13.7 11.3 12.7 14.1 14.7 16.0 164.9
Average rainy days (≥ 0.2 mm) 3.8 3.2 5.8 11.6 14.5 12.2 12.1 12.5 13.0 13.3 11.8 4.9 118.6
Average snowy days (≥ 0.2 cm) 13.8 10.2 7.1 3.1 0.12 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.76 5.1 11.6 51.7
Average relative humidity (%) (at 15:00) 68.0 61.8 56.2 51.2 52.1 56.1 54.9 56.7 57.8 63.2 67.2 75.0 60.0
Mean monthly sunshine hours 98.5 125.2 160.3 177.3 229.2 254.5 284.7 253.5 182.5 146.7 89.2 67.1 2,068.5
Percentage possible sunshine 34.5 42.7 43.5 43.9 49.9 54.6 60.3 58.1 48.4 43.0 31.0 24.5 44.5
Source: Environment Canada (rainfall/snow/sun 1981–2010)[4][5][6]

Sports

[edit]

The Kemptville 73's are a Tier II Junior "A" hockey team and members of the Central Canada Hockey League. The team was founded as the Kemptville Comets of the Rideau-St. Lawrence Junior B Hockey League in 1969, but the league later became the Eastern Ontario Junior B Hockey League and the Comets became the 73's in 1973. The 73's were promoted to Junior "A" in the Summer of 2007.

Birthplace of 1930s NHL player Desse (Desmond) Roche.

Media

[edit]

Radio

[edit]

The Kemptville area is served by a number of radio stations out of the Ottawa-Gatineau areas, including Brockville. Kemptville is served by one local radio station.

  • CKVV-FM 97.5; Kemptville's first local FM radio station launched in 2012.

Newspapers

[edit]

The North Grenville Times, a locally owned community newspaper, is delivered every Wednesday.

Language

[edit]

Out of Canada's official languages, 95% of the population is Anglophone and 17.4% is fluent in French.[7]

Notable people

[edit]

See also

[edit]

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia
from Grokipedia
Kemptville is a community and the largest population centre in the Municipality of North Grenville, located in , Canada, approximately 50 kilometres south of along the system. With a population of 4,051 as recorded in the , it functions as the administrative, commercial, and cultural hub of North Grenville, a municipality formed in by the amalgamation of several townships. Originally settled in the early 1800s by pioneers including Trueman Hurd, John McCargar, Lyman Clothier, and David Beech, the area developed around mills powered by Kemptville Creek, which flows into the . The community was initially known as "Wolford" or "Hurd's Village" before being renamed Kemptville in 1828 to honour Sir James Kempt, the Administrator of , during his tour of the region. By the mid-19th century, Kemptville had grown into a bustling village focused on and milling, with emerging as its main commercial thoroughfare after initial development along the creek. Today, Kemptville's economy blends , small-scale , retail, and , supported by its historic district, which features boutique shops, spas, and cultural amenities along the waterfront. The community is renowned for its natural surroundings, including access to the —a navigable via Kemptville Creek—and attractions such as Mountain Orchards, eQuinelle Golf Club, and the North Grenville Municipal Centre for events and recreation. Educational institutions like North Grenville District High School serve the area, while its proximity to fosters commuter growth and positions Kemptville as one of Eastern Ontario's faster-developing rural communities.

Geography and environment

Geography

Kemptville is an unincorporated community situated in the Municipality of North Grenville in , Canada, within the northern part of the United Counties of Leeds and Grenville. It lies approximately 50 kilometers south of , bordered by extensive rural farmlands and in close proximity to the system, about 3 kilometers south of the river itself. The community's geographic coordinates are 45°01′N 75°39′W, with an elevation of approximately 90 meters above . The population centre encompasses a land area of 3.73 square kilometers. The terrain in Kemptville is characterized by flat to gently rolling landscapes, predominantly occupied by farmland that shapes the surrounding rural character. Key natural features include Kemptville Creek, a right of the that originates southwest of the community and flows northeast through it before joining the larger about 4 kilometers downstream. The area also features surrounding wetlands associated with the creek's subwatershed, contributing to the local within the . Transportation infrastructure enhances Kemptville's connectivity, with the community located at the intersection of County Road 43 and Highway 416, known as the Veterans Memorial Highway. This positioning provides efficient access to via Highway 416 to the north and to the Prescott–Russell region and beyond to the east. The landscape remains predominantly agricultural with pockets of urban development, and while there are no major protected natural areas, local parks are situated along Kemptville Creek for community recreation.

Climate

Kemptville features a classified as Dfb under the Köppen system, marked by four distinct seasons with cold, snowy winters and warm, humid summers. This classification reflects the region's location in , where continental air masses dominate, leading to significant temperature swings and moderate precipitation throughout the year. Climate normals for the period 1991–2020, recorded at the Environment Canada station in Kemptville, indicate an annual mean of 7.0°C, with a mean of -10.5°C and a mean of 20.5°C. Annual averages 925.2 mm, comprising 734.8 mm of and 190.4 cm of snow. Winters are particularly harsh, with average snowfall reaching 190 cm and frequent lake-effect enhancements from the contributing to heavier accumulations. Summers bring occasional that can push temperatures to 35°C, while spring and autumn serve as transitional periods prone to thunderstorms and variable patterns. Extreme temperatures underscore the climate's variability: the all-time high of 38.3°C occurred on 5 1921, and the all-time low of -36.7°C was recorded on 13 February 1928. More recently, the 2023 event brought prolonged high temperatures, exacerbating local heat stress.

History

Founding and early settlement

The area encompassing modern-day Kemptville was part of the traditional territory of the Algonquin peoples, who have inhabited the and its tributaries, including the watershed, for at least 8,000 years prior to European contact. Archaeological evidence and oral histories confirm their long-standing presence, with communities relying on the region's rivers for trade, fishing, and seasonal migration routes. European exploration of the region began in earnest in the late , facilitated by the , which served as a key waterway for fur traders and early surveyors. Following the , United Empire Loyalists began arriving in the broader Grenville County area after 1784, receiving land grants in townships such as Oxford-on-Rideau, where Kemptville is located; these settlers included families like the Burritts, who established farms along the river by the 1790s. Oxford-on-Rideau Township itself was surveyed in 1791, but initial settlement remained sparse, with only a handful of families by the early 1800s. Kemptville was founded in the mid-1810s by American-born settler Lyman Clothier, who purchased approximately 100 acres of land on the South Branch of the —known locally as Kemptville Creek—between 1812 and 1814. Clothier, accompanied by his four sons, cleared the wilderness and constructed the area's first around 1815–1816, harnessing the creek's flow for power; this enterprise marked the site's initial development as a milling hub and attracted other pioneers, including Trueman Hurd, Thomas McCargar, and David Beech. The settlement was originally called Clothier's Mills or simply "The Branch," reflecting its position on the river branch and Clothier's dominant role. In 1821, Clothier expanded operations by adding a grist mill, further supporting the nascent community's agricultural needs as surrounding lands were cleared for farming. The village was renamed Kemptville in 1828 to honor Sir James Kempt, the Administrator (and later Governor General) of , during his tour of the region that year; the first map bearing the name appeared in 1830, and a followed in 1831. Early growth centered on milling and subsistence farming, with the creek providing essential while the Prescott-Bytown enhanced connectivity for . By the 1830s, the population had reached around 200 residents, bolstered by ongoing Loyalist influxes and the promise of economic opportunity. Key early institutions included the establishment of a Methodist congregation in the 1820s, which held services in settlers' homes before constructing a dedicated church, reflecting the community's growing social fabric. An Anglican church opened in 1829, while Trueman Hurd donated land for a Roman Catholic site in 1834, underscoring the diverse religious practices among early inhabitants.

19th and 20th century development

Kemptville was formally incorporated as a village in 1857, marking a significant step in its transition from a small milling settlement to a structured community with local governance. This incorporation followed the arrival of the and Prescott Railway in 1854, which connected Kemptville to Prescott on the and facilitated economic expansion through improved transportation of goods and passengers. The railway's extension spurred commercial growth, with the population reaching over 700 residents by the mid-1850s and approximately 1,200 by 1880, driven by and trade along the corridor. A devastating fire on May 13, 1872, destroyed much of the downtown core, including every building on Prescott Street between and Asa Streets, in what became known as the worst in Kemptville's history. The blaze, likely originating from a , razed wooden structures and led to an extensive rebuilding effort that reshaped the village's with more fire-resistant buildings and a focus on commercial development. This reconstruction not only restored but enhanced the downtown area, solidifying Kemptville's role as a regional hub for services and trade in the late 19th century. In the early , the establishment of the Kemptville Agricultural School in represented a major institutional milestone, funded by the government with an initial investment of $50,000 to provide practical . The school, later evolving into Kemptville College, expanded significantly through land acquisitions in 1920, 1955, and 1967, growing to nearly 1,000 acres and offering two-year diploma programs alongside short courses to support 's farming community. During , the school's focus on agricultural training aligned with heightened provincial demands for food production, contributing to local amid wartime labor shortages in farming. Following the war, Kemptville achieved town status in , reflecting its maturing civic identity and population growth to around 3,500 by the late . The community experienced steady development, including residential expansion tied to improved road networks and proximity to . In 1998, Kemptville merged with the townships of Oxford-on-Rideau and South Gower to form the Municipality of North Grenville, ending its independent municipal status while preserving its distinct historical and cultural identity.

Recent history

In the early 21st century, Kemptville experienced rapid residential expansion, driven primarily by its proximity to , which attracted commuters seeking more options outside the capital. This growth contributed to a significant population increase in the Kemptville centre, from 3,657 in the 2001 census to 4,051 in the 2021 census, reflecting broader trends in suburban development in . A pivotal event in Kemptville's recent history was the closure of Kemptville College in 2014, as the consolidated its agricultural programs amid a $32.4 million operating deficit influenced by provincial constraints. The , a longstanding hub since 1917, ceased accepting new students that fall and fully shut down academic and research activities by the end of 2015, displacing over 100 jobs and sparking local advocacy for alternative uses. By 2018, the Municipality of North Grenville acquired the property at no cost to taxpayers, repurposing it as the Kemptville Campus Education and Community Centre, which now hosts offices of the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs (OMAFRA) and supports local agri-food initiatives. Politically, the 2018 municipal election marked a milestone with the election of Nancy Peckford as North Grenville's first female , securing a with 2,844 votes in a field of challengers. During the , the municipality responded with targeted economic support programs, including business grants and low-interest loans totaling over $6 million through initiatives like the Social Services Relief Fund and Canada-Ontario Community Housing Initiative, aimed at aiding local recovery and job retention. By the mid-2020s, infrastructure enhancements included intersection improvements at Highway 416 and Leeds-Grenville Road 43 in Kemptville, planned for 2024-2025 to accommodate rising traffic volumes. Population projections for North Grenville anticipate growth to over 30,000 residents by 2046 under medium-growth scenarios, necessitating expanded and services. Environmental efforts have focused on Kemptville Creek restoration, with the Rideau Valley Conservation Authority implementing protection measures such as riparian planting and watershed enhancement projects to mitigate erosion and improve . However, this influx of commuters and post-2020 remote workers has intensified affordability challenges, driving up rental and purchase prices amid limited supply and prompting municipal strategies like the Housing Accelerator Fund to target 60 affordable units on the former campus.

Demographics

Population and growth

Kemptville, as a centre, recorded a total of 4,051 residents in the 2021 Census, marking a modest increase of 0.71% from 3,911 in 2016. The community spans an area of 3.73 km², yielding a of 1,086 people per km², with 1,851 total private dwellings occupied. This places Kemptville as the largest community within the Municipality of North Grenville, which had an enumerated of 17,964 in 2021. Historically, Kemptville's has shown steady expansion, growing from 1,523 in 1901 to 3,667 by 2001. Post-2016, the annual growth rate has averaged approximately 1%, influenced by suburban spillover from nearby as residents seek more affordable and family-oriented living options. As of the March 2025 municipal study, projections under the medium growth scenario indicate North Grenville's will reach approximately 20,000 by 2025 and 20,845 by 2026, driven by urban migration and the area's appeal to families. Kemptville's population centre is expected to continue modest growth aligned with these trends. Demographic indicators reflect an aging community, with a median age of 50.0 years in 2021 and an average household size of 2.2 persons. Approximately 13.1% of residents were 0-14 years old, while 29.3% were 65 and over, highlighting a mature structure within this rural-urban .
YearKemptville PopulationNorth Grenville Population (Municipality)
19011,523N/A
20013,667N/A
20163,91116,451
20214,05117,964
2025 (proj.)~4,200~20,000

Language and ethnicity

According to the 2021 Census of Population conducted by , the ethnic composition of Kemptville reflects a predominantly European heritage, shaped by historical settlement patterns in rural . groups are small, comprising less than 3% of the population, consistent with regional trends. English is the dominant language in Kemptville, serving as the mother tongue for approximately 86% of residents. Bilingualism in English and French is reported by 17.4% of the , reflecting the community's proximity to bilingual regions in . Approximately 95% of residents were born in , contributing to a stable cultural fabric with limited influx from diverse global origins. Kemptville's cultural identity is rooted in Anglo-Canadian traditions, heavily influenced by settlers from the who established the community in the late . This heritage manifests in local events such as agricultural fairs and historical reenactments that celebrate British colonial ties, though multiculturalism is less pronounced than in nearby . Recent trends indicate a modest rise in French speakers, driven by cross-border interactions and regional bilingual policies. Religiously, Kemptville has a Christian majority, with about 60% of residents affiliated with Christian denominations (including approximately 28% Catholic), reflecting the community's European origins. Approximately 35% report no religious affiliation, while smaller groups represent other faiths.

Government and politics

Municipal government

Kemptville serves as the administrative seat of the Municipality of North Grenville, a lower-tier township in the United Counties of Leeds and Grenville, Ontario, formed in 1998 through the amalgamation of the Town of Kemptville, Oxford-on-Rideau Township, and South Gower Township. The municipal government operates from the North Grenville Municipal Centre at 285 County Road #44 in Kemptville, which houses administrative offices, council chambers, and various service departments. The municipality is governed by an elected of five members—a , a , and three councillors—who serve four-year terms and are responsible for local decision-making, policy development, and oversight of municipal operations. The current , elected in 2022 for the term ending November 2026, consists of Nancy Peckford, John Barclay, and Councillors Doreen O'Sullivan, Kristin Strackerjan, and Deb Wilson. Nancy Peckford, first elected in 2018, is the municipality's first female following amalgamation and has prioritized community inclusion through initiatives like the Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Advisory Committee, established to advise on EDI-related issues and support diverse community programs. The municipal government delivers core local services, including bylaw enforcement, zoning and land-use regulation, waste management, and parks maintenance, all aimed at supporting resident quality of life and orderly community development. By-Law Services enforces regulations on property maintenance, noise, animals, and other standards in coordination with public works and fire departments. Zoning is governed by the Comprehensive Zoning By-Law (No. 50-12), which controls land use, building heights, and development to promote sustainable growth. Waste management encompasses curbside collection of garbage, recycling, and source-separated organics under dedicated bylaws to enhance environmental stewardship. Parks and recreation services maintain public green spaces, trails, and facilities like the municipal arena to foster community engagement. The 2025 annual , adopted by in March 2025, totals $42.8 million, with $27 million allocated to operations and $15.8 million to capital investments in such as roads, systems, and recreational amenities. Guided by the 10-year Community Strategic Plan adopted in 2022, recent municipal initiatives from 2023 to 2025 focus on housing development and , including the North Grenville Housing Strategy to increase affordable and diverse housing options and programs for waste diversion and environmental preservation. The plan's pillars emphasize balanced growth, environmental , and cohesive community building to manage expansion while protecting natural heritage. Municipal elections occur every four years on the fourth in , with the 2022 election recording a of 40.7 percent among the eligible electorate of 5,857.

Federal and provincial representation

Kemptville is located within the federal of Leeds—Grenville—Thousand Islands and Rideau Lakes, which has been represented in the since the electoral redistribution effective for the 2004 federal . The current for the riding is Michael Barrett of the Conservative Party, who was first elected in a 2018 and re-elected in the 2019, 2021, and 2025 general elections. At the provincial level, Kemptville forms part of the identically named of Leeds—Grenville— and in the . The riding is currently represented by of the Progressive Conservative Party, who has held the seat since 2010 and was re-elected in the 2022 and 2025 provincial elections. The encompassing Kemptville has exhibited a historical conservative lean in both federal and provincial , with voter preferences influenced by rural and agricultural concerns such as farming policies and . In the 2021 federal election, the Conservative candidate secured 50.5% of the popular vote in the riding. Federal representation has supported infrastructure development in the area through funding programs, including a $5 million contribution toward the expansion and bridge rehabilitation on County Road 43, which connects to Highway 416 and enhances local access. The project reached a major milestone with the bridge rehabilitation completion in November 2025. Provincially, grants have bolstered education and health services, such as over $2.1 million allocated through the Skills Development Fund for workforce training in Leeds-Grenville and a $158,000 investment in equipment upgrades at Kemptville District Hospital.

Economy

Historical economy

Kemptville's early economy in the centered on milling operations along Kemptville Creek, which powered and essential for processing and . The Clothier Brothers established the first in 1816, followed by a in 1821, attracting settlers and fostering initial growth through timber harvesting and production. By the , additional mills like Harding’s (1834) and Perkins Mills (1859), which included saw, , carding, and tannery facilities, expanded local industry, producing , cloth, furniture, and goods. These operations were pivotal, as and processing supported self-sufficient farming communities and early exports. The late 19th century marked a shift toward , with emerging as a dominant sector in Grenville County, including Kemptville, where cheese factories and creameries processed milk for export to the and Britain. Crops such as hay, , oats, and corn became staples, suited to the region's soils, while orchards along nearby rivers supplied markets in and . The establishment of the Kemptville Agricultural School in 1916 (with short courses starting in 1919 and regular programs in 1920) played a crucial role in advancing farming techniques, offering courses in livestock care, , soil analysis, and to improve productivity in . In the , the arrival of the Bytown and Prescott Railway in 1854 revolutionized Kemptville's economy by connecting it to and the , facilitating agricultural exports and spurring industrial growth. During , heightened demand for food production boosted local farming, with the agricultural school contributing to enhanced methods for , , and yields. Post-war, diversification included light manufacturing such as creameries, milk plants, and farm-related equipment, alongside small-scale , with and primary sectors employing the majority of workers through the 1950s. However, in farming gradually reduced manual labor needs, while the school's ongoing education efforts modernized practices until its programs ended in 2014.

Modern economy

Kemptville's modern economy, as part of the Municipality of North Grenville, features a mixed structure based on 2021 Census data, with services comprising the majority of local employment (e.g., 15.5%, and social assistance 12.1%, retail trade 11.4%), / at 2.8%, and at 4.2%; approximately 43% of the commutes outside the for work, many to , reflecting its position as a bedroom community 45 minutes south of the capital via Highway 416. The local unemployment rate was 5.1% as of November 2025 in the economic region. This landscape builds on the area's historical agricultural base while diversifying into services and emerging sectors. Key sectors include , which remains vital with a high location quotient for farming activities such as production and cash crops like corn and soybeans, employing a notable share of locals through family-operated farms and related processing. contributes through specialized operations, exemplified by Canarm Ltd.'s of ventilation systems in nearby and Prysmian Group's cable facilities in the broader region. Tourism and hospitality are bolstered by Kemptville's access to the , a , attracting visitors for , events, and along the waterfront. Major employers include the Ferguson Forest Centre, a non-profit operating a tree nursery and conservation lands with approximately 20-25 employees (permanent and seasonal) in environmental and forestry-related roles. Local operations like Ingredion's food processing plant in nearby Cardinal provide additional manufacturing employment, while retail outlets along County Road 43—Kemptville's main commercial corridor—offer service-sector positions in shopping and . The Kemptville District Hospital also stands as a significant anchor, employing hundreds in . Post-2020 trends, including an influx of remote workers drawn to and , have spurred economic expansion, with the population growing by 9.2% from 16,452 in 2016 to 17,964 in 2021 and continuing upward. The Municipality's 2024 Economic Development Strategy emphasizes green technology initiatives, such as sustainable agri-innovation, and logistics development tied to Highway 416 improvements, aiming to attract investments and reduce commute dependency. Challenges persist, including escalating housing costs amid rapid population increases, which strain affordability for young families and newcomers, and an over-reliance on Ottawa for employment, with approximately 43% of workers commuting outside the municipality and vulnerable to capital-region economic fluctuations. Efforts to address these include downtown revitalization in Kemptville and expanded transit links to .

Education

Primary and secondary education

Kemptville's primary and secondary education is provided through the Upper Canada District School Board (UCDSB) for public schools and the Catholic District School Board of Eastern Ontario (CDSBEO) for Catholic schools. The UCDSB operates North Grenville District High School, serving grades 9–12 with approximately 590 students as of 2023–2024, offering French immersion programs that lead to a UCDSB French certificate upon completion of required credits. The high school also includes vocational and skilled trades pathways, such as cooperative education and specialist high skills majors, to prepare students for postsecondary and workforce opportunities. The UCDSB further manages three elementary schools in the area: Kemptville Public School (grades K–6, dual-track with French immersion and core French), Oxford-on-Rideau Public School (grades JK–6 in Oxford Mills), and Centennial '67 Public School (grades JK–6 in Spencerville). Across the UCDSB's North Grenville family of schools, total enrollment reached 2,144 students in 2024–2025, reflecting steady growth. The CDSBEO oversees Catholic education, including St. Michael Catholic High School (grades 9–12, approximately 495 students in 2023–2024) and Holy Cross Catholic School (grades K–8). Overall K–12 enrollment in Kemptville is estimated at around 2,000 students for 2025, encompassing both boards. The first school in Kemptville, a log cabin structure on the corner of Prescott and Reuben Streets, opened in 1822 to serve early settlers. Recent developments include provincial investments in STEM and skilled trades facilities, such as $840,912 allocated in 2024 to the UCDSB and Kemptville Campus for enhancements benefiting high school students. Graduation rates for UCDSB secondary schools, including North Grenville District High School, stood at 89.2 percent for the five-year cohort in 2023–2024, approaching the board's 90 percent target.

Post-secondary and vocational education

Kemptville College, originally established as the Kemptville Agricultural School in 1917 by the government, served as a key institution for practical agricultural training in . It offered programs in , , management, and related rural trades, focusing on hands-on skills like , farm management, and . In 1997, the college affiliated with the University of Guelph's Ontario Agricultural College, expanding its academic offerings until its closure. The institution ceased operations in 2014 following provincial funding cuts, affecting over 200 students and staff who were in the midst of completing their studies by 2016. Following the closure, the Kemptville campus was acquired by the Municipality of North Grenville in 2018 and repurposed as a multi-use and . It now hosts Ministry of , Food and Rural Affairs (OMAFRA) offices that support regional agri-food initiatives and research extension services. Vocational training has resumed through the Youth Program, offering foundational Level 1 courses in skilled trades such as truck and coach technician, heavy duty equipment technician, and agricultural equipment technician, with approximately 20 seats available annually. The campus also delivers in and local food systems, including short courses on sustainable farming practices in partnership with provincial agricultural bodies. Residents of Kemptville access broader post-secondary options through nearby institutions, including Algonquin College's Ottawa campus, about 45 minutes away, which provides diplomas and degrees in applied arts, business, and technology. , also in Ottawa, offers undergraduate and graduate programs in fields like and , serving as a key resource for advanced studies. Locally, the North Grenville District High School and community centres facilitate adult and upgrading programs for vocational advancement. The legacy of Kemptville endures through its role in training generations of agricultural leaders who have contributed to Canada's farming sector, including innovators in sustainable practices and . The Kemptville College Alumni Association maintains this heritage with annual reunions and events, such as the 2022 gathering that celebrated the institution's . In 2022, a comprehensive book, Kemptville Agricultural College: 100 Year History, was published, documenting the school's impact through portraits of faculty, alumni achievements, and archival photos. As of 2025, the campus continues to host short courses in sustainable farming, supported by the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs, building on this foundational legacy.

Culture and community

Sports

Kemptville is home to the Kemptville 73's, a Junior A team competing in the Hockey League (CCHL), which plays its home games at the North Grenville Municipal Centre. Founded in 1969 as the Kemptville Comets, the team adopted its current name in 1973 to reflect the year, and it has been a cornerstone of local hockey since transitioning to Junior A status in 2007. The 73's have a storied history, including an undefeated in 1996–97 with a 38–0–4 record while competing in the Eastern Ontario Junior B Hockey League. Beyond hockey, Kemptville supports a range of youth and school-based sports through North Grenville District High School (NGDHS), whose teams participate in the Ontario Federation of School Athletic Associations (OFSAA) championships in sports such as , soccer, , and cross country. For instance, NGDHS girls' teams have competed at OFSAA levels, earning antique bronze in 2015, while senior boys' soccer squads have qualified for provincial play. Minor leagues thrive locally, with the Kemptville Wildcats offering and programs from U5 to U19 levels, and the Kemptville District Association providing youth opportunities across age groups. Key sports facilities in Kemptville include the North Grenville Municipal Centre, which features two NHL-sized ice rinks for hockey and from September to March, along with a convertible arena floor for other activities and access to a nearby seasonal outdoor pool for programs. Veterans Way Memorial Park serves as a hub for , boasting soccer fields, trails, and green spaces for community sports. Golf enthusiasts can enjoy the 18-hole eQuinelle , a semi-private course par-72 layout spanning 7,065 yards amid rural landscapes. Notable achievements in Kemptville sports include the 73's' 1996–97 undefeated campaign and the production of NHL alumni such as Desse Roche, a right winger born in Kemptville in 1909 who played 113 games across four seasons from 1934 to 1939 with teams including the and . Community involvement is strong, with youth programs through organizations like the Kemptville District Minor Hockey Association emphasizing inclusivity and skill development for players from initiation to under-18 levels. Annual events, such as demonstrations at the Kemptville Fair, further promote sports engagement among residents.

Media

Kemptville's local media landscape features a mix of print, radio, and digital outlets that focus on community news, events, and regional stories. The primary print publication is the North Grenville Times, a locally owned that covers municipal affairs, local events, developments, and historical features for North Grenville residents. It emphasizes hyper-local content, such as coverage of the Kemptville Improvement Area's expansion plans in 2025. Historically, Kemptville's print media dates back to the , with early newspapers like the Kemptville Advance, which began publication around 1855 and served as a key source for local and political news until its print edition ceased in 2023 due to broader industry challenges faced by Metroland Media. The transition to digital formats accelerated post-2010, as traditional papers adapted to online platforms amid declining print readership. Radio coverage is provided by CKVV-FM 97.5, known as 97.5 Moose FM, Kemptville's first local FM station, which launched in and broadcasts a variety/ format including music, talk shows, , and community announcements. Owned by Vista Radio Ltd., the station serves North Grenville with live and streams online via its website. Digital media has grown prominently, with Inside offering online regional coverage that includes Kemptville-specific , weather, obituaries, and event listings as part of its broader network. Residents also access content from nearby outlets like CBC and CTV for broader regional and national stories, supplemented by community-driven platforms such as local groups for real-time updates on events and alerts. My Kemptville Now, tied to Moose FM, provides additional digital , events, and live radio streaming. There is no dedicated local in Kemptville, but streaming services and online video content from regional providers have become increasingly popular. By 2025, podcasting has seen a rise in local adoption, with the North Grenville Times producing series like "Conversations with " to explore community history and current issues, reflecting a shift toward audio formats for in-depth .

Notable people

George Howard Ferguson (1870–1946) was a Canadian and who served as the ninth from 1923 to 1930, born in Kemptville to a local doctor and . He began his career in municipal politics in Kemptville before entering provincial politics as a Conservative member. Charles Palmerton Anderson (1865–1930) was a prominent religious leader in the , serving as its Presiding Bishop from 1922 until his death; he was born in Kemptville and educated at in . Ordained in 1887, he immigrated to the in 1891 and rose through the church hierarchy, becoming Bishop of in 1900. William Bryden "Baldy" George (1899–1972) was an influential agriculturalist and sports administrator associated with Kemptville, where he worked as an extension soil specialist at Kemptville Agricultural School from 1926 until retirement. He served as president of the Canadian Amateur Hockey Association from 1955 to 1957, contributing to the growth of amateur hockey in , and was also active in lawn bowling governance. Desmond "Desse" Roche (1909–1971) was a right winger born in Kemptville, who played 113 games in the National Hockey League primarily with the , , , , and during the 1930s. Known for wearing the number 99—one of only six NHL players to do so—he began his career in junior hockey with the Montreal Victorias before turning professional. Ralph Raina (b. 1925) is a longtime and former of Kemptville, serving three terms in the 1960s, 1970s, and 1980s (including 1986 to 1988), with over 19 years total in local politics including earlier roles as and reeve. A garment industry businessman who overcame a tuberculosis diagnosis in his youth, he celebrated his 100th birthday in 2025 and remains active in civic discussions, including concerns over local development. Nelson Leis (b. 1974) is an actor and producer born in Kemptville, best known for roles such as in Netflix's and appearances in HBO's and FX's Shōgun. Raised partly in , he has built a career in television and film, including writing and producing projects like Kayak to Klemtu. John Davis Curtis (1935–2019), though primarily known as the longest-serving principal of Kemptville College of Agricultural Technology from 1974 to 1993, was deeply tied to the institution's agricultural legacy and inducted into the Ontario Agricultural Hall of Fame in 2020 for advancing education and resources in farming.

References

  1. https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/[ottawa](/page/Ottawa)/canada-federal-election-2025-results-lanark-frontenac-1.7517748
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