Needless to say we are in a world of immense change. Every day this pandemic brings a new set of circumstances. We are overwhelmed daily by the enormous data being generated and processed regarding the state of the Co-vid virus on a global scale down to the local level. The new protocols and restructuring of our everyday life have caused us all to adapt to very limited human interaction. At Woodland our community has witnessed these fundamental changes as well.
Welcome to our first Blog. The aim of our website is to add a little comfort and joy in bringing Woodland’s past back to life, celebrating what a wonderful journey it has been, the remarkable accomplishments and events along the way and an opportunity for our community to now continue this journey.
I am envisioning the Reverend William Aldridge slowly paddling his canoe along the shores on Nottawasaga Bay and surveying the lay of the land, searching for a new area of beach along the sandy shoreline on which to settle for his family and congregation. He decided on a beautiful and quiet stretch nestled between two points of land. His vision was realized not long after and, in 1921, ‘Woodland Beach’ was created.
At first it was horse and buggy that brought the small community to their new vacation home. Tents were struck and rudimentary cottages followed. A new church was built and roads crafted. Over the next years businesses were created to meet the increasing demands of the expanding community. These first Woodlanders left a remarkable imprint that set the foundation for the many who followed.
The love for Woodland is deeply rooted. Over the years ownership of property has often been a ‘family affair’. Many of our present community members are descendants of those who first settled as well as many who came in subsequent decades. An increasing number of seasonal owners have become permanent residents, enjoying Woodland year round. With our newer families we all share this special attachment to our beautiful Beach.
And so we bring to you a website both historical and contemporary.
We can thank those who have gone before us for preserving and safe guarding Woodland. We have the privilege to follow on the journey. Woodland Proud!