Little Current, Ontario

Little Current is a community in the Town of Northeastern Manitoulin and the Islands, Ontario, Canada, on the northeast end of Manitoulin Island.

Little Current is a community in the Town of Northeastern Manitoulin and the Islands, Ontario, Canada, on the northeast end of Manitoulin Island. It is located at the narrow channel linking the North Channel and Georgian Bay and is widely known as the island’s gateway community. The area grew around a ferry, shipping, rail, and later the Little Current Swing Bridge.

Geography

Little Current is located on the northeastern shore of Manitoulin Island in Manitoulin District, Ontario. It occupies the narrow passage between the North Channel and Georgian Bay.

History

The community grew around a strategic narrows used by Indigenous peoples, voyageurs, and later European traders and settlers. Sources describe early names such as Waibejewung and Petit Courant, with the English name Little Current adopted later.

Transportation

Little Current became an important shipping and rail point and later gained the Little Current Swing Bridge, which connects Manitoulin Island to the mainland road network. The bridge is a defining feature of the community.

Role on Manitoulin Island

Little Current is commonly described as the gateway to Manitoulin Island. It functions as a service centre and a stopping point for travellers, boaters, and visitors.