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The City of Greater Sudbury has a population of 157,857 and was formed on January 1, 2001, representing the amalgamation of the towns and cities that comprised the former Regional Municipality of Sudbury.  Despite this amalgamation, all of the former areas are still referred to almost exclusively by their original names and each carries with it a distinct history and identity.

Our Beginnings

Sudbury's origins can be traced back to 1883 and the development of the transnational railway. Part of the westward expansion of the Canadian Pacific rail line, the area was intended only to serve as a temporary work camp for transient railway workers. The junction was named Sudbury by James Worthington, CPR superintendent of construction, after his wife's birthplace in England. The harsh conditions and inhospitable environment seemed hardly destined to evolve as a vibrant urban centre in a matter of decades. Yet soon after the railway section was completed in November 1884, the discovery of rich minerals embedded in the geological formation known as the Sudbury Basin would serve as the impetus for a sustained period of unparalleled growth.  (Source:  Greater Sudbury Keyfacts)

For more information about the history of Greater Sudbury's communities follow the links on the left side of your screen.