This Ontario hamlet changed its name three times & it’s a hidden gem

Sometimes it takes a few tries to get it right! Terra Cotta is a hamlet in the town of Caledon and it had its name changed three times before it settled on one! Now, it’s an adorable hidden gem with lots to offer.

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Getting to Terra Cotta will take you about an hour by car from Toronto, near Credit River and the Terra Cotta Conservation Area.

This hamlet’s name history starts with when it was called Tucker’s Mills back before changing its name to Plewes Mills when a man by the name of Simon Plewes took over the mill.

It then changed its name again to something *interesting*. Salmonville was the new name when the area’s first post office opened, due to all the salmon in the nearby river.

Finally, “Industry began in the area with brickworks exploiting the local red clay and in 1891 the post office was renamed Terra Cotta,” says Visit Caledon. 

For a little slice of the hamlet’s history, head to the Mile 0 Marker of the Caledon Trailway. Here you’ll find a kiln chimney, visible to the north of the trailway, the last trace of the brickworks from the 1800s.

About a three-minute drive from the hamlet is the well-known Terra Cotta Conservation Area with stunning hiking trails and opportunities for bird watching plus amazing photography opportunities.

While you’re visiting the area, a stop at the Terra Cotta Inn is a must.

Located on the banks of the Credit River on the main street of the hamlet, this spot is described as “one of the most spectacular dining locations in Caledon.”

Fresh pasta, risotto and steak are just a few options on the menu.

Start planning your day trip now!