John Sebring: The Man Who Named a Town Sebringville Ontario

​In the quiet, agricultural landscape of Perth County, every village has a story, and the story of Sebringville begins with one man: John Sebring. As someone who spends a lot of time documenting the history etched in stone, I find it fascinating to learn about the people whose names became synonymous with the places they helped build.

​John Sebring, an American who arrived in the area in 1834, is credited with founding the community. His entrepreneurial spirit led him to establish a sawmill, a pivotal business for any nascent settlement. The mill was a hub of activity, providing the lumber needed to build homes, barns, and the other structures that would form the backbone of the new community.

​Sebring’s impact wasn’t just limited to the village that would one day bear his name. He was also instrumental in the development of nearby Stratford. In fact, he was the builder of the Canada Company's mill in Stratford, further solidifying his place as a key figure in the region's early economic and social growth.

​The history of John Sebring and the town he founded is a prime example of the pioneer spirit that shaped Southwestern Ontario. These early settlers, with their vision and hard work, transformed a rugged landscape into the thriving communities we know today.

​As I continue my work in local cemeteries, I am constantly reminded of these stories. The headstones, whether a monument to a humble pioneer or a community leader, all tell a piece of our shared history. And just like the story of John Sebring, each one is a legacy worth preserving.

Angie Moore