Old Sandwich Town is steeped in history. The area was initially inhabited by various Aboriginal nations including the Chippews, Ottawas, Potowatomis and Wyandots. In the year 1747, the first Jesuit Mission in all of Upper Canada was established in the area. Sandwich was essentially formed as a result of Detroit's independence from Great Britain, which was achieved in 1796. The consequence to this achievement was a mass movement of Loyalists south of the Detroit River, to the Sandwich area. By 1797, this land was purchased from the Huron Indians for about 300 pound worth of supplies. In 1858, Sandwich was properly acknowledged with a town status. In 1935, Old Sandwich Town was amalgamated with East Windsor, Windsor and Walkerville to formulate the City of Windsor.
Sandwich has also played host to some considerably meaningful events, such as the beginning of the War of 1812. This also brought influential military figures to Old Sandwich Town, such as, Chief Tecumseh, General Isaac Brock, General Henry Procter and General Harrison of the United States. Sandwich also saw action during the Upper Canada Rebellion in 1837-38.
Old Sandwich Town is home to some of Ontario's oldest and most historically important buildings, such as Mackenzie Hall, and the Duff-Baby Mansion of which, the latter is considered to be the oldest structure in all of Ontario. Not only is Sandwich home to historically significant buildings, but it has also been a dwelling place for some symbolic Canadian figures. Some of these include, Alexander Mackenzie, the second Prim Minister of Canada; Henry Bibb, a fugitive slave who initiated the first Afro-Canadian newspaper. In fact, Sandwich and the surrounding area became an established black settlement, where thousands of freed and fugitive slaves took refuge from slavery.
There are abundant stories around about the old Sandwich jail and some of its past occupanst. Also the old surrounding cemeteries hold many a fine tale.
There is plenty of parking nearby.