Stratford & The River

The story of Stratford cannot be told without the Avon River.

Long before theatre stages and summer patios, the river shaped this land — winding through marsh and farmland, sustaining early settlement, and eventually redefining the city’s identity.

From Railway Town to Riverfront Beauty

In the late 1800s, Stratford was a thriving railway hub. The land surrounding the Avon was low-lying and marshy, and at one point there were discussions about draining parts of it to expand operations for the Grand Trunk Railway.

Instead, civic leaders chose a different vision.

Between 1906 and 1908, a dam was constructed, transforming the wetlands into what we now know as Lake Victoria. The project reshaped Stratford’s shoreline and marked a turning point — from industrial expansion toward beautification and recreation.

It was a decision that forever changed the city’s future.

The Era of Regattas & River Life

​

With the creation of Lake Victoria came a new chapter of community life.

In the early 20th century, rowing regattas became major summer events. Crowds lined the banks to watch competitive crews from the Stratford Rowing Club and visiting teams race along the calm waters.

The Avon was alive with activity:

• Rowing competitions
• Canoeing and leisure boating
• Swimming in designated areas
• Winter skating when the river froze

The shoreline became Stratford’s gathering place long before it became a theatre destination.

Swans & Royal Roots

In 1918, mute swans were introduced to the Avon — inspired by the elegance of European rivers. They quickly became a defining symbol of the city.

In 1967, during Canada’s Centennial year, Queen Elizabeth II gifted Stratford a pair of royal swans. Their lineage still graces the river today, strengthening Stratford’s connection to tradition and heritage.

Each spring, the Swan Parade continues — a living celebration of the river’s identity.

 

The River as Stratford’s Stage

Before the Stratford Festival opened in 1953, the Avon was already a stage.

It hosted regattas, festivals, picnics, and civic celebrations. The decision to preserve and beautify the river corridor helped lay the foundation for Stratford’s cultural future.

Nature came first. Culture followed.

​

A Continuing Legacy

Since 1965, The Boathouse has stood along this same shoreline — watching the river carry forward over a century of history.

From marshland to lake.
From railway town to cultural icon.
From regattas to river cruises.

The Avon has always been more than water.

It is Stratford’s memory.
Its gathering place.
Its legacy — still unfolding.