Vittoria’s History

Vittoria is a quiet, peaceful hamlet in Norfolk County in Southern Ontario, population about 600. Masked by this veneer of tranquility, lies a long and distinguished history, of which the residents are justifiably proud. Founded in 1796, Vittoria was originally known as Tisdale’s Mill after the important grist mill established along Young’s Creek by the Loyalist Tisdale family. Following the British victory at the Battle of Vittoria in Italy during the Napoleonic Wars, the village name was patriotically changed to Vittoria in 1813.

As part of the Long Point Settlement, Vittoria grew throughout the early 1800’s, becoming the Capital of the London District in 1815. Its geographic location was one of the important factors in gaining such status as the village was just far enough from the shores of Lake Erie to provide ample warning if American forces attempted another raid. During the decade-long distinction of being Capital, commerce became well established and helped to increase the areas population.  

Despite the loss of the Court House by fire in 1825, the village continued to prosper. By the 1850’s, the main street, officially named Brock Street after the heroic War of 1812 commander General Isaac Brock, featured a number of shops, hotels, school, carriage works, churches, blacksmith, and bakery. Side streets included additional places of trade along with various frame and brick homes.