Overall, Prescott’s history is closely tied to its strategic location along the St. Lawrence River, which has shaped its development as a hub for transportation, trade, and commerce.
Prescott History
The area around Prescott was inhabited by Indigenous peoples, including the Mohawk, Algonquin, and Huron-Wendat who lived off the natural resources of the St. Lawrence River.
In the 1600s and 1700s, European explorers, including Samuel de Champlain, Jacques Cartier, and John Graves Simcoe, ventured into the region. However, it was not until the late 1700s that European settlement began in earnest.
Following the American Revolutionary War (1775-1783), many United Empire Loyalists (those loyal to the British Crown, and some who fought for Britain) sought refuge in British North America. Some settled along the St Lawrence River valley around what has become Prescott
Due to its location along the St. Lawrence River, Prescott played a significant role in transportation and trade. It became a vital hub for the shipment of goods between Upper Canada (now Ontario) and Lower Canada (now Quebec). The St Lawrence River was an important trade route, and had several battles (nearby) in the War of 1812 between Canada and the USA.
During the Upper Canada Rebellion of 1838, rebels under William Lyon Mackenzie seized the Windmill Point in Prescott, but where crushed by British forces, helped with local militia and Mohawk warriors. This rebellion was the start of the move to make Canada independent from Britain, culminating in Confederation and the British North America Act of 1867.
Throughout the 1800s, Prescott experienced significant growth in industry and commerce. Sawmills, gristmills, and various manufacturing enterprises emerged, capitalizing on the abundant natural resources of the area.
The construction of the St. Lawrence Seaway in the 1950s & 1960s and the Seaway Skyway Bridge international bridge connecting Prescott to Ogdensburg, New York, in the mid-20th century further enhanced its role as a transportation hub. The construction of Highway 416 twining the #16 highway between Ottawa and Prescott improved access to Prescott, the 401 and the International bridge.
In recent decades, Prescott has continued to develop as a community. Efforts have been made to preserve and promote its historical significance, with attractions such as Fort Wellington National Historic Site and the Sandra S. Lawn Harbour & Marina.