The Story of Paradise Falls

The first reference to Paradise Falls appears on a grain invoice signed by the town’s founding father Reverend Everett L. Thistle. The story goes that Rev. Thistle and his family came to Paradise Falls to convert the Algonquin and Huron Indian tribes that were said to people the area. Thistle’s plans would have been more effective if either of those two tribes had actually lived in Paradise Falls. Undaunted, the family wrote to relatives to tell them they had chosen to stay and “Wait for the Indians to eventually make their way there.” Thistle named the area Paradise Falls. He claimed that the falls had “purifying” health benefits and held baptisms in the “Godly clear” waters.

Thanks to the proximity to the railway and the “Free Land Grant and Homestead Act”, Paradise Falls soon became a thriving town. The production of wood products created structures such as businesses, schools and cottages, which resulted in new jobs. After a drop in tourism during the Depression, Paradise Falls prospered as the sole producer of military-issue boots during World War II.

By the 1950s, Paradise Falls became the destination of choice among honeymooners and pleasure seekers in Southern Ontario. Unfortunately, the town’s emphasis on “romance” angered more religious residents who followed in Thistle’s footsteps and managed to shut down a number of motels and bars.

In the late 1970s and early 80s, Paradise Falls struck a balance between “pleasure-seeking” tourists and local residents by highlighting town culture. Mayor Pete Braga promoted the town as a progressive, yet traditional, alternative to the city. And Pete’s family-oriented vision inspired many young visitors to buy property. This exciting blend of old and new values can be seen in the youthful spirit of today’s Paradise Falls. Thanks to Pete’s website initiative, Paradise Falls has arrived on the information highway as well. With a love of the past and a commitment to the future, Paradise Falls is where everyone comes to play… and stay.