Picton

### **Category: Picton, Ontario** #### **Overview** **Picton, Ontario**, is the largest town in **Prince Edward County**, located along the **Bay of Quinte** on the **northeastern shore of Lake Ontario**. Known for its **deep maritime history, shipbuilding industry, and shipwrecks**, Picton has played a major role in **Great Lakes navigation, trade, and naval conflicts**. Today, it is a popular **boating, diving, and tourism destination**, offering a mix of **history, scenic waterfronts, and cultural attractions**. #### **Geography & Location** - Located in **Prince Edward County**, within the **Bay of Quinte region**. - Situated along **Picton Harbour**, a well-protected deep-water port. - Connected to **Lake Ontario** via **Adolphus Reach**, a key shipping route. - Near the **Glenora Ferry**, which provides access to the mainland and Highway 33 (**Loyalist Parkway**). #### **Maritime & Shipping History** - **Shipbuilding Hub (19th & 20th Centuries)**: Picton was home to a **major shipbuilding industry**, producing schooners, steamers, and ferries. - **Timber & Trade Center**: The town was a **key shipping port** for timber, coal, and agricultural goods. - **War of 1812 History**: The region saw **naval skirmishes and military activity** between British and American forces. - **Commercial Shipping**: In the 19th century, Picton Harbour was one of the busiest ports on **Lake Ontario**, supporting regional trade. #### **Diving & Shipwrecks** Picton is a **prime location for wreck diving**, with several **historic shipwrecks** in nearby waters, including: - **The City of Sheboygan (1871-1915)** – - **Katie Eccles (1877-1922)** – A schooner - **Oliver Mowat (1873-1921)** – A schooner that was lost - **The Florence (1873)** - **Alberta ** – A well-known wreck that sank near **Adolphus Reach**. #### **Tourism & Attractions** - **Picton Harbour** – A historic waterfront with **marinas, boat tours, and waterfront dining**. - **Lake on the Mountain** – A mysterious **high-altitude lake** with stunning views over the Bay of Quinte. - **Glenora Ferry** – A **free ferry ride** offering scenic views and connecting to **Loyalist Parkway**. - **Sandbanks Provincial Park** – One of **Ontario’s most famous beaches**, located nearby. - **Prince Edward County Wineries & Breweries** – Picton is the **center of wine country**, featuring **vineyards, cider houses, and craft breweries**. - **Macaulay Heritage Park** – A historic museum showcasing Picton’s **maritime and colonial history**. - **Regent Theatre** – A century-old theatre hosting **concerts, films, and performances**. #### **Environmental & Navigational Challenges** - **Shallow Waters & Sandbanks**: The area has **many shoals**, making navigation tricky for larger vessels. - **Strong Winds & Storms**: The region is known for **sudden storms**, which have caused many **historic shipwrecks**. - **Ice & Winter Closures**: Historically, **ice buildup in the winter** impacted trade and navigation. ### **Why It Matters** Picton is a **historic Great Lakes port** with a deep connection to **shipping, shipbuilding, and maritime history**. Its **shipwreck sites, scenic harbor, and role in regional trade** make it an important **maritime and tourism destination** within **Prince Edward County**. Whether exploring **historic wrecks, enjoying waterfront dining, or sailing in Adolphus Reach**, Picton remains a key location for **Great Lakes heritage and recreation**.