Fred Dahms

German Communities in Southern Ontario Fred Dahms

This book describes the history, architecture and contemporary characteristics of settlements founded by German immigrants who settled in Waterloo and Southern Bruce Counties. Many places retain early structures, Germanic influences and customs brought from Europe and Pennsylvania. A number were settled by Mennonites and Amish who retain their original modest dress, travel by horse and buggy and often use animals to cultivate their fields. Their distinctive churches have large areas for horses and are often very plain and sometimes without electricity. Some local restaurants continue to offer German cuisine. Tidy, picturesque Mennonite farms surrounding these settlement are often without electricity and many sell meat, vegetables and flowers from their homes. Most formerly German communities retain their original names. This book uses maps, diagrams and colour photographs to describe and illustrate the interesting and unique cultural artifacts that continue to exist in the communities described. A trip through Waterloo Region and Southern Bruce County reveals their history, contemporary character and distinctive ethnic roots. This book can be used as a travel guide or just read for pleasure.