Discovery and Development of the McIntosh Apple National Historic Event
Dundela, Ontario
Discovery and Development of the McIntosh Apple
(© arks Canada Agency)
Address :
11530 County Road 18, Dundela, Dundela, Ontario
Recognition Statute:
Historic Sites and Monuments Act (R.S.C., 1985, c. H-4)
Designation Date:
1999-10-28
Other Name(s):
-
Discovery and Development of the McIntosh Apple
(Designation Name)
Research Report Number:
1999-27
Importance:
Ideally suited for Canada's northern climate, has been accepted worldwide
Plaque(s)
Existing plaque: at the original McIntosh Farm 11530 County Road 18, Dundela, Ontario
In 1811, John McIntosh discovered an apple sapling on his land in Matilda township. By bringing about its propagation and wide dissemination, he and his family had a significant impact on Canada's fruit growing industry. The McIntosh apple not only possessed a highly desirable taste, texture, aroma and appearance, but was also ideally suited for growing in the country's colder climate. A number of well-known hybrids, such as the Cortland, Empire, Lobo and Spartan, were derived from this fruit. The McIntosh has become one of the most popular varieties grown in Canada and abroad.