Haliburton Art and Heritage

Ogopogo Resort is an excellent base for an exploration of the art and heritage of Haliburton County.

Early settlement was driven by Upper Canada’s desire in the mid-1800’s to settle the lands away from the Great Lakes. Colonization roads were built and settlers were offered land at 50 cents an acre. Many took up the offer however with limited fertile land scattered among the rocks and hills, a farming existence was a continual challenge.

The logging industry was the main economic engine fueling the development of Haliburton County in the late 1800s and early 1900s. The great white pine was much sought after in Britain during this period. The loggers would make winter camps in the bush, felling trees and skidding them to frozen rivers on horse drawn sleighs. With spring breakup, they would float the logs down the lake and river systems to the saw mills located closer to the towns. To get the logs over the frequent rapids, log chutes were constructed from heavy timber. With the recent restoration of the Hawk Lake log chute, Haliburton boasts the only operating log chute in Ontario.

The pioneering spirit is celebrated throughout the county. With four museums and numerous restored buildings and sites, it is possible to transport yourself back in time to the days of the early settlers. Ogopogo Resort has prepared a self-guided tour of some of the most interesting sites in the county.

Following World War II, Haliburton became slowly recognized as a vacation centre within driving distance of major centers in Southern Ontario. The landscape of rock, lakes and trees, the extensive network of trails of all kinds and our tranquil back to nature atmosphere has brought cottagers and vacationers into the highlands. It has also attracted artists in many media, creating one of the most vibrant artist communities in Canada. Sculptors, painters, ironworkers, potters and many others make their home and studios in the Highlands, many of which are open to the public. There are also a number of excellent galleries with works for sale and in collection. A very notable collection is that of Andre Lapine held by the Agnes Jamieson Gallery in Minden. Lapine (1868-1952) was a painter who, in the latter stages of his career, captured the life of Haliburton County in his oils.

The annual Haliburton County Art Studio Tour takes place the first two weekends in October of every year. This is a major event with about 30 art studios participating. The artists open their studios to visitors, put on demonstrations and display their work. The tours are self-guided with maps and highway signage allowing visitors to find the studios easily and enjoy some of the most spectacular autumn colour in central Ontario.

At other times of the year, we will be pleased to arrange a self-guided tour to some of the studios in the area. Tour by car or perhaps by bicycle and take a picnic lunch. There are also excellent restaurants to stop for lunch or dinner.