Saturday, October 10, 2009

White River, Ontario, Canada - Birthplace of Winnie-the-Pooh


White River, Ontario, is a community of 1,000 people, located along the Trans-Canada Highway, 3.5 hours north of Sault Ste. Marie and 4 hours east of Thunder Bay. It was established in 1885, as a railroad stop, half way between Winnipeg and Toronto. Set amidst the rugged and picturesque boreal forest of the Canadian Shield, it is also a center for lumbering.

For such a remote small town, White River has two claims to fame. It is one of the coldest spots in North America, with winter temperatures sometimes dipping to less than -60 F (-50 C). More importantly, to us, White River is the birthplace of one of childhood's most endearing characters, Winnie-the-Pooh.
Would you believe that in this remote outpost we found one of the only Tourist Information Centres in Northern Ontario that is actually open year round. The building depicts the White River Canadian Pacific Railway Station of 1940. In it you will find wash rooms, Winnie-the-Pooh memorbilia for sale, and information on the local area, including snowmobiling opportunities in winter. The lady operating the centre was very friendly and helpful.
The White River Tourist Information Centre is on the Trans-Canada Highway at Elgin Street. It is open 8-5 daily, except holidays.

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