Welcome to Central Elgin

Welcome to the Municipality of Central Elgin — a vibrant and growing community located in Southwestern Ontario along the picturesque north shore of Lake Erie. Nestled in the heart of Elgin County, Central Elgin offers a unique blend of rural charm, waterfront beauty, welcoming communities, and convenient access to major urban centres.

Formed in 1998 through the amalgamation of the Township of Yarmouth and the Villages of Belmont and Port Stanley, Central Elgin is home to nearly 15,000 residents and is part of the London census metropolitan area. The municipality surrounds the City of St. Thomas and shares the City of London’s southern boundary, providing residents and businesses with excellent regional connectivity and access to Highways 401, 402, and 403.

Central Elgin is a community of communities, each with its own unique character and experiences to offer residents and visitors alike. Communities within Central Elgin include Belmont, Dexter, Lawton’s Corners, Lyndale, Lynhurst, Mapleton, New Sarum, Norman, Port Stanley, Sparta, Union, Whites, and Yarmouth Centre.

Central Elgin’s economy is supported by a diverse mix of agriculture, tourism, manufacturing, creative industries, and small locally owned businesses. The municipality continues to experience steady growth and investment, supported by its  location and proximity to regional transportation networks, railways, airports, and marine ports.

As the region continues to grow, Central Elgin is planning for the future through thoughtful development, housing opportunities, and investments in infrastructure and community services that support a high quality of life for residents today and for generations to come.

The Municipality of Central Elgin is part of a two-tier municipal government structure with Elgin County and seven neighbouring local municipalities, working together to provide services and support vibrant communities across the region.

Plan your visit

Whether you enjoy relaxing on the beach, golfing, hiking, theatre, local wineries and breweries, fine dining, or exploring the area’s rich agricultural and cultural heritage, Central Elgin offers something for everyone.

From the vibrant waterfront community of Port Stanley and the small-town charm of Sparta to the rural landscapes and communities found throughout the municipality, Central Elgin is a place where people can connect, explore, and enjoy the best of Southwestern Ontario.

Visit the Elgin County Tourism website to begin planning your next visit. 

Central Elgin's history and heritage 

Central Elgin has a deep and rich history shaped by generations of communities, families, and local traditions. Organizations such as Heritage Port StanleySparta and District Historical Society, and Belmont Historical Society work to preserve and commemorate the area’s unique heritage and stories.

The Elgin County Archives acquires and preserves corporate records of the County of Elgin, along with private records of enduring historical significance. Visitors can explore archival collections, order photograph reproductions, and browse virtual exhibits through the archives website.

The Elgin County Museum celebrates Elgin County’s rich historical and agricultural heritage through the acquisition, preservation, exhibition, and interpretation of artifacts connected to the county’s past. The museum also provides leadership and support to local museums across Elgin County, helping foster a strong heritage partnership throughout the region. Visit the museum’s website to learn more about current exhibits and plan your visit.

Learn about Heritage Designated Properties in Central Elgin

Central Elgin Symbols

The Municipal Crest was derived from the field of the coat of arms.

  • The wavy white lines on the shield represent the three significant geographic features within the Municipality: Lake Erie, Kettle Creek and Catfish Creek
  • The ears of corn and the fish located in the centre of the shield represent Central Elgin's predecessor municipalities: the agricultural roots of the Township of Yarmouth and the Village of Belmont, and the fishing heritage of the Village of Port Stanley
  • The sail represents Central Elgin 's marine ties with the lake

 

Central Elgin Crest

In the Municipal Coat of Arms...

  • The wavy white lines on the shield represent the three significant geographic features within the Municipality: Lake Erie, Kettle Creek and Catfish Creek
  • The ears of corn and the fish located in the centre of the shield represent Central Elgin's predecessor municipalities: the agricultural roots of the Township of Yarmouth and the Village of Belmont, and the fishing heritage of the Village of Port Stanley
  • The sail represents Central Elgin 's marine ties with the lake
  • The St. Andrew's (saltire) cross on the sail is symbolic of the family of Lord Elgin
  • The mythical creatures on either side of the shield: horse/fish and deer/fish show the Municipality's ties to both the land and Lake Erie
  • The horse represents work horses that pulled ploughs across the fields of Yarmouth Township
  • The deer was found on the Coat of Arms of the Village of Port Stanley, symbolizing the family of Lord Stanley for whom the community was named

The Coat of Arms were granted in 1999 by the Governor General, the Right Honourable Roméo LeBlanc, exercising the armorial prerogative of Her Majesty the Queen.

 

Central Elgin Coat of Arms

Traditional Land Acknowledgement

The Municipality of Central Elgin acknowledges that it is located on the land of the McKee Treaty that was signed by the Wyandot and by Anishinaabe Nations, including ancestors of Chippewas of the Thames First Nation. It is also the traditional territory of the, Haudenosaunee, Attiwonderonk (Neutral) and Mississauga Nation. These First Nations continue to provide ongoing stewardship of the land and waters in the Municipality of Central Elgin.

Contact Us

450 Sunset Drive,
St. Thomas, Ontario
N5R 5V1

Phone: (519) 631-4860,
Email: info@centralelgin.org
Hours of operation: Monday to Friday 8:30am to 4:30pm

View the Latest News from Central Elgin

View recent media releases, public service announcement and public notices.