Killarney History

Killarney is one of the oldest villages in Northern Ontario. Georgian Bay and Killarney Provincial Park are both next door to this quaint fishing village. Friendliness and old world charm make Killarney Village a place that will make you feel at home. It's a thriving community whose docks harbour rustic fishing boats and elaborate yachts.

Historically, Killarney was named Shebahonaning, an Ojibwa word for 'safe canoe channel'. As far back as 1615 Samuel de Champlain and Etienne Brule were the first Europeans to travel these waters. By 1759, this was a major water route for the French fur traders, commonly known as the Voyageurs.

Reminiscent of the olden days, fresh or smoked fish can still be purchased right off the docks at the waterfront. Most visitors, however, choose a home cooked meal to enjoy the surroundings at one of the local establishments. Today, the village offers fine lodging and food, a museum, a church, an old jailhouse, marinas, an auto shop, a local craft shop, an old-fashioned general store, a liquor store and an extensive outdoor sports shop for canoeists, kayakers, hikers and campers. Killarney locals are friendly and welcoming. You'll feel that you've known them all your life..