Punkeydoodle's Corner
Punkeydoodle's Corner is located at the precise spot where Oxford, Perth and Waterloo, ON Counties connect. (East of Tavistock and south of Highway 7 and 8) Why Punkeydoodle's Corner? One story has it that John Zurbrigg, who settled there over 100 years ago and grew fields of pumpkins, had a dispute with another settler named Hellman. During an argument, he was called an old "Punkeydoodle" by Mrs. Hellman. The name stuck, and afterwards the land became known as Punkeydoodle's Corner. The second story is that John grew so many pumpkins and because of his short, stout stature, was nicknamed 'Punkeydoodle'. Again his land was called Punkeydoodle's Corner. The third story is the most probable version, handed down from the early settlers. It revolves around an innkeeper, John Zurbuchen, who used to lead his patrons in the singing of popular tavern songs. He was a native of Germany and had difficulties with the English language. Instead of singing 'Yankey Doodle went to town' he always sang 'Punkeydoodle went to town'. As a result, Punkeydoodle became his nickname and it became Punkeydoodle's Corner. Controversy appears to always surround this community. When you visit Punkeydoodle's Corner, you will notice that the street signs, on the main street, have a different spelling on the sign at each end of the street. The largest event to have occurred at Punkeydoodle's Corner was on June 26, 1982. Over 10.000 people assembled in the field to the south of the present homes to celebrate Canada's Birthday. Canada Post established a Post Office. Many souvenirs mark this famous Canadian community. A monument was unveiled to commemorate the occasion.
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