Here are some of the attractions in and around Orwell:
Founded in late 1680s by Scottish, Irish and British Loyalist settlers, Orwell was named for Sir Francis Orwell, England's Minister of Plantations. Crops in the area include potatoes and strawberries. A prominent on of Orwell is Sir Andrew Macphail, who's love of medicine and journalism led him to become a professor at Montreal's McGill University and become the first editor of the Canadian Medical Journal and develop several new strains of potatoes.
Two special celebrations also take place every summer: the Strawberry Social in Mid July and the Scottish Festival and Highland Games in late August. At the former guests gulp down heaping portions of ice cream and strawberries and join in games and dances. The Scottish Festival recreates games played by their ancestors such as hammer throwing, tossing the caber (similar to a telephone pole) and putting the stone.
Community Map
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Attractions
Orwell Corner
(902) 902-651-8510;
Join Urban Carmichael, Connor O'Callaghan and weekly guests in concert celebrating Prince Edward Island's Celtic heritage. Songs, fiddle, storytelling, off the wall humour and much more. Tickets $8.00 for adults/$4.00 for children.
Orwell Corner Historic Village
Off the TransCanada Hwy, 25 km east of Charlottetown.
telephone (902) 651-8510; fax (902) 368-6608;
Experience the life and times of a rural crossroads community in the 1890s. Includes blacksmith shop, store, house, farm, school, church, community hall, tea room. Open May 13-June 14 and Oct 7-21, Mon-Fri, 10 am-3 pm; June 17-Sept 1, daily, 9 am-5 pm; Sept 3-Oct 5, Tues-Sun, 9 am-5 pm; Oct 7-18, Mon-Fri, 10 am-3 pm. Admission $4. Children 12 and under and PEI Museum members admitted free. Group rates available.
The weekly events have been running for years, and are partly responsible for the thriving traditional music scene. The Ceilidhs at the Corner are now so popular that you should arrive early at the small community hall. The historic village's atmosphere is delightful, with the path from the parking lot and the hall itself are lit by lanterns. Performances:: June 6 - September 26 Wednesdays 8 pm)
Sir Andrew Macphail Homestead
Highway 1, follow the signs
902 654-2789
This home was built in 1850 and has a 65 hectare (160 acres) spread inlcudes a carriega house and barn, a playhouse, and nature trails. Guided tours are available. Allow 1 hour minimum. Open lagte June to early September, Sunday-Monday and Wednesday-Friday 10 to 8:30 , and Tueas & Sat 10 am to 6 pm. Admission by donation.
