Grand Falls-Windsor is a town located in central Newfoundland, Canada. It is known as "Qapskuk" in the Mi'kmaq language and is the largest town in the island's central region. The town was incorporated in 1991, resulting from the amalgamation of the former towns of Grand Falls and Windsor.

 

Grand Falls was established in 1905 by the Anglo-Newfoundland Development Company, which built a pulp and paper mill on the Exploits River. The mill was powered by the river's falls and was connected to the transinsular railway and the seaport of Botwood. 

 

The company built a planned town around the mill, completed in 1909. The town grew rapidly, and in 1938, Windsor, a nearby settlement, was incorporated as the second municipality in Newfoundland after St. John's. 

 

The town continued to grow, and in 1961, the pulp and paper mill was acquired by Price Brothers. Later, it became a division of Abitibi-Price (now Abitibi-Bowater). The mill remained one of the town's largest employers until it closed in 2009.

 

Today, Grand Falls-Windsor is a major service and distribution center in central Newfoundland. The town has a diverse economy with significant mining and aquaculture activities. 

 

Tourism is also growing, with attractions like the Mary March Provincial Museum, the Loggers' Life Museum, and the Grand Falls Fishway and Salmonid Interpretation Centre. 

 

The town hosts the annual Exploits Valley Salmon Festival, which features performances by notable artists such as Aerosmith, Kiss, and The Eagles.

 

The town is part of the Newfoundland and Labrador English School District. It has several schools, including Woodland Primary, Sprucewood Academy, Forest Park Primary, Exploits Valley Intermediate, and Exploits Valley High. 

 

Post-secondary education is available at the College of the North Atlantic, a community college formed in 1977. Private colleges include Keyin College and Corona College. Healthcare services are administered by Newfoundland and Labrador Health Services, with the nearest hospital located in Gander.

 

The town is accessible by car via the Newfoundland and Labrador Route 1, part of the Trans-Canada Highway. The nearest airport is the Exploits Valley (Botwood) Airport, used for hospital medical airlift transport and some private small aircraft. 

 

The nearest international airport is Gander International Airport, approximately 100 km (62 mi) east of Grand Falls-Windsor.

 

Grand Falls-Windsor has a humid continental climate, with extreme winter lows and moderate summer temperatures. The town experiences significant rainfall and snowfall throughout the year, with an average annual rainfall of 806.1 mm (31.74 in) and an average annual snowfall of 275.0 cm (108.3 in).

 

History of Grand Falls–Windsor, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada

Grand Falls–Windsor, located in central Newfoundland, Canada, has a rich history dating back to the early 20th century. The town was established in 1905 by the Anglo-Newfoundland Development Company (AND) as a planned community centred around a pulp and paper mill. 

 

The mill was powered by the Exploits River and was connected to the transannular railway and Botwood's seaport.

 

Early Development

The AND company, led by Alfred Harmsworth (Baron Northcliffe), was searching for an alternative source of newsprint for their family's newspaper and publishing business. 

 

They discovered Grand Falls, which offered access to lumber, hydroelectric power, and a deep-water port. The company formed the Anglo-Newfoundland Development Company, and the mill was opened in 1909. 

 

The town grew rapidly, and in 1938, the nearby settlement of Grand Falls Station, which was established without planning and services, was incorporated as Windsor, possibly named after the royal house of Windsor.

 

The town of Grand Falls was incorporated in 1963, and the pulp and paper mill was acquired by Price Brothers in 1961. The mill remained one of the town's largest employers until it closed in 2009. 

 

The town continued to grow, and in 1991, the towns of Grand Falls and Windsor amalgamated to form the Town of Grand Falls–Windsor.

 

Today, Grand Falls–Windsor is a major service and distribution center in central Newfoundland. The town has a diverse economy with significant mining and aquaculture activities. 

 

Tourism is also growing, with attractions like the Mary March Provincial Museum, the Loggers' Life Museum, and the Grand Falls Fishway and Salmonid Interpretation Centre. 

 

The town hosts the annual Exploits Valley Salmon Festival, which features performances by notable artists such as Aerosmith, Kiss, and The Eagles.

 

Geography of Grand Falls–Windsor, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada

Grand Falls–Windsor, located in central Newfoundland, Canada, has a unique geography shaped by its natural surroundings and industrial development. 

 

The town is situated along the Exploits River and the Trans-Canada Highway, approximately 266 miles (428 km) northwest of St. John’s.

 

Land Area and Population Density

The town has a total land area of 54.67 square kilometres and a population density of 251.1 persons per square kilometre, significantly higher than the national average of 4.3 persons per square kilometre.

 

The Exploits River, which runs through the town, is known for its spectacular falls and provides hydroelectric power. The river is also home to Atlantic salmon, which can be viewed at the Grand Falls Fishway and Salmonid Interpretation Centre. The town's natural scenery is a major tourist attraction, with visitors drawn to the river and surrounding forests.

 

Demographics of Grand Falls–Windsor, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada

The demographics of Grand Falls–Windsor, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada, are as follows:

 

Population

• 2021 population: 13,853
• 2016 population: 14,171
• 2006 population: 13,558
• 2011 population: 13,725
• 2001 population: 13,340

 

Gender

• Males: 6,959
• Females: 7,452

 

Country of Birth

• Canada: 13,605
• America: 55
• Europe: 100
• Africa: 10
• Asia: 225
• Oceania: 10

 

Mother Tongue

• English: 13,410
• French: 30
• Other language: 170
• Multiple languages: 60

 

Economy of Grand Falls–Windsor, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada

Grand Falls–Windsor, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada's economy has undergone significant changes over the years. The town was initially established as a company town centred around a pulp and paper mill built by the Anglo-Newfoundland Development Company in 1909. The mill was the town's largest employer until it closed in 2009.

 

Historical Development

The mill was constructed to provide newsprint for the Harmsworth family's newspaper and publishing business. The town was planned using Garden City principles, emphasizing a mix of residential, commercial, and industrial areas. 

 

The mill was powered by the Exploits River and was connected to the transinsular railway and the seaport of Botwood. The town grew rapidly, and in 1938, the nearby settlement of Grand Falls Station, which was established without planning and services, was incorporated as Windsor, possibly named after the royal house of Windsor.

 

The town faced significant economic challenges after the mill's closure in 2009. However, it has since diversified its economy through various initiatives. 

 

Today, Grand Falls–Windsor is a major service and distribution center in central Newfoundland, with significant mining and aquaculture activities. 

 

Tourism is also growing, with attractions like the Mary March Provincial Museum, the Loggers' Life Museum, and the Grand Falls Fishway and Salmonid Interpretation Centre. 

 

The town hosts the annual Exploits Valley Salmon Festival, which features performances by notable artists such as Aerosmith, Kiss, and The Eagles.

 

Current Economy

Grand Falls–Windsor has a population of 13,853 and services a catchment area of 74 communities, with a total population of 74,843. 

 

Initiatives in various sectors, including education, immigration, health care, tech, tourism, and recreation, drive the town's economy. 

 

The town is working with stakeholders across the Exploits Region and Central NL to ensure that its near-term priorities align with long-term goals and objectives.

 

Key Economic Sectors

1. Mining and Aquaculture: These sectors significantly contribute to the local economy, with various regional mining and aquaculture operations.
2. Tourism: Tourism is growing, with attractions like the Mary March Provincial Museum, the Loggers' Life Museum, Grand Falls Fishway and the Salmonid Interpretation Centre.
3. Education: The town has several educational institutions, including the College of the North Atlantic and private colleges like Keyin College and Corona College.
4. Health Care: Central Health is the largest employer in the town, providing various health care services to the local population.
5. Tech and Recreation: The town is investing in tech initiatives and recreational activities to diversify its economy further.

 

Grand Falls–Windsor has adapted to the challenges posed by the mill's closure and is now a thriving service and distribution center in central Newfoundland.

 

Education in Grand Falls–Windsor, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada

The education system in Grand Falls–Windsor, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada, includes several institutions catering to various education levels. Here are some key points about education in the town:

 

Post-Secondary Education

• College of the North Atlantic: The Grand Falls-Windsor campus of the College of the North Atlantic offers a range of programs in fields such as business, health sciences, and technology.

 

Primary and Secondary Education

• Public Schools: There are five public schools in Grand Falls-Windsor, providing education from kindergarten to grade 12. The Newfoundland and Labrador English School District manages these schools.

 

Notable Educational Institutions

• Mary March Provincial Museum: This museum, located in Grand Falls, features exhibits on the Beothuk people, geology, regional industry, and natural history.

 

Notable Educational Figures

• George Ivany: President of the University of Saskatchewan from 1989 to 1999.

 

Grand Falls–Windsor has a well-established education system with institutions catering to various education levels. The town is home to the College of the North Atlantic, which offers post-secondary programs, and has five public schools that provide education from kindergarten to grade 12.

 

Transport System in Grand Falls–Windsor, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada

The transport system in Grand Falls–Windsor, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada, includes various modes of transportation:

 

Public Transportation

• Bus Service: The DRL-LR bus service operates daily between Port aux Basques and St. John's, with stops in Grand Falls-Windsor.

 

Air Transportation

• Exploits Valley (Botwood) Airport: This airport is used for hospital medical airlift transports and some private small aircraft. The nearest international airport is Gander International Airport, approximately 100 km (62 mi) east of Grand Falls-Windsor.

 

Heliport

• Grand Falls-Windsor Heliport: The town operates this heliport and provides public access to helicopters.

 

Road Transportation

• Trans-Canada Highway: The town is accessible by car via Newfoundland and Labrador Route 1, which is part of the Trans-Canada Highway.

 

Rail Transportation

• Newfoundland Railway: Although the railway was closed in 1988, it played a significant role in the town's development. A locomotive from the railway is now on display in front of the Mary March Provincial Museum.

 

Water Transportation

• Botwood Seaport: Botwood, located 35 km northeast of Grand Falls-Windsor, provides access to the Atlantic Ocean and international shipping.

 

Other Transportation

• Walking and Cycling: The town has several walking and cycling paths, including the Grand Falls-Windsor Trail, which connects various parts of the town.

 

Grand Falls–Windsor has a well-connected transport system that supports its role as a service and distribution center in central Newfoundland.

 

Living in Grand Falls–Windsor, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada

Grand Falls–Windsor, located in central Newfoundland, Canada, is a town with a rich history and diverse economy. Here are some key points about living in Grand Falls–Windsor:

• Town Incorporation: Grand Falls–Windsor was incorporated in 1991, resulting from the amalgamation of the former towns of Grand Falls and Windsor.

• Major Employers: Central Health is the largest employer in the town, followed by the College of the North Atlantic and private colleges like Keyin College and Corona College.

• Schools: The town is part of the Newfoundland and Labrador English School District and has several schools, including Woodland Primary, Sprucewood Academy, Forest Park Primary, Exploits Valley Intermediate, and Exploits Valley High.

• Healthcare Services: Healthcare services are administered by Newfoundland and Labrador Health Services.

• Airport: The nearest airport is Exploits Valley (Botwood) Airport, which is used for hospital medical airlift transport and some private small aircraft. The nearest international airport is Gander International Airport, which is approximately 100 km (62 mi) east of Grand Falls–Windsor.

• Average Temperature: The average temperature in Grand Falls–Windsor is around 4.5°C (40.1°F), with July being the warmest month and January the coldest.

• Communication Services: Communication services are provided by AT&T Canada, Primus Canada, and Aliant, formerly NewTel Communications, offering mobile phones, high-speed Internet, and digital television.

 

Grand Falls–Windsor offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, making it an attractive place to live and visit.

 

Healthcare in Grand Falls–Windsor, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada

Healthcare in Grand Falls–Windsor, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada, is provided by Central Health, which operates the Central Newfoundland Regional Health Centre. Here are some key points about healthcare in the area:

 

Healthcare Facilities

This secondary care facility has about 130 acute care beds and serves the western part of central Newfoundland.

 

Healthcare Services: The Grand Falls Windsor Long Term Care Centre provides long-term care services.

Community Health Centre: The Grand Falls-Windsor Community Health Centre offers various health services, including primary care, specialist services, and diagnostic imaging.

Family Physicians: For family physicians in the St. John's area who can take new patients, contact Community Services (Confederation Building) at (709) 729-4984 (English only). Refer to the College of Physicians and Surgeons for other parts of the province.

Eastern Health: Eastern Health services the Avalon, Bonavista, and Burin peninsulas, as well as areas from St. John's to Port Blanford.

Western Health: Western Health services are on the west coast of the island of Newfoundland.

Labrador-Grenfell Health: Labrador-Grenfell Health services the region of Happy Valley-Goose Bay and the northern region of the island of Newfoundland.

 

Overall, Central Health provides healthcare in Grand Falls–Windsor, with various facilities and services available to cater to the needs of the local population.

 

Tourist Places in Grand Falls–Windsor, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada

Grand Falls–Windsor, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada, offers several tourist attractions that showcase its natural beauty and rich history. Here are some notable tourist places:

1. Corduroy Brook Nature Trail
2. Grand Falls-Windsor Heritage Centre
3. Demasduit Regional Museum
4. Salmonid Interpretation Centre
5. Canyon Park Walking Trail
6. Gorge Park
7. Fallsview Lookout.

 

These attractions combine natural scenery, history, and culture to showcase the town's unique character.

 

Local Food of Grand Falls–Windsor, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada

The region's history and cultural heritage influence the local food in Grand Falls–Windsor, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada. Here are some notable local food options:

1. Juniper Kitchen & Bistro: Known for its creative dishes using local ingredients, this restaurant offers a variety of options, including seafood, meat, and vegetarian dishes.
2. Tai Wan Restaurant: This Chinese restaurant serves various traditional dishes, including seafood, meat, and vegetarian options.
3. The Valley Restaurant: This restaurant offers local and international dishes, including seafood, meat, and vegetarian options.
4. Badger: This pub serves various local and international dishes, including seafood, meat, and vegetarian options.

 

These restaurants offer a mix of local and international cuisine, reflecting the region's cultural diversity.

 

You can also check the information regarding Saint John, New Brunswick