Saugeen First Nation reclaims landmark Sauble Beach sign after court awards ownership of 2.2 km of shoreline lost due to a survey error in 1856.
Historic Signage Change Marks First Nation Ownership
An iconic Ontario beach landmark saw a quiet but powerful change on July 1, as the familiar “Sauble Beach” welcome sign was replaced overnight with one that reads “Welcome to Saugeen Beach.” The alteration reflects a 2023 Ontario Court of Appeal decision that awarded a 2.2-kilometre section of Lake Huron shoreline to the Saugeen First Nation, officially recognizing their ownership after a decades-long legal fight.
Court Ruling Confirms Treaty Breach
In December 2023, the court ruled that the federal government breached the 1854 Saugeen Surrender Treaty. Although the treaty preserved five reserve areas, a faulty 1856 Crown survey improperly excluded the stretch of beach. The court found that the land, located west of Lakeshore Boulevard between Main Street and 7th Street North, had been wrongfully taken. The federal government acknowledged the error in the 1970s and supported the First Nation’s legal claim.
First Nation Calls Sign ‘Symbol of Resilience’
Saugeen First Nation Councillor Cheree Urscheler described the updated signage as deeply meaningful. “What some see as just a sign change is, for us, a symbol of truth, resilience and the reclamation of what has always been ours,” she shared on social media. “Welcome to Saugeen Beach—where the land remembers, and so do we.”
Municipality Says It Was Not Informed
The Municipality of South Bruce Peninsula expressed surprise and disappointment over the unannounced change. In a public statement, Mayor Jay Kirkland emphasized the importance of communication, stating, “While we respect Saugeen First Nation’s right to make changes on their land, we believe open dialogue is important—especially when it involves something so symbolic to the broader community.”
Future of the Beach and Tourism
Chief Conrad Richie has previously affirmed that the beach will remain accessible to visitors and that the First Nation will work collaboratively with local residents and businesses. The area remains a major summer destination, and the First Nation aims to ensure a respectful balance between cultural stewardship and tourism.
Financial Impact of the Legal Battle
As part of the ruling, the court ordered the Municipality of South Bruce Peninsula to pay $1.67 million in legal fees to Saugeen First Nation. The Ontario government was ordered to pay $1.28 million, while the federal government was ordered to contribute $322,000. Additionally, the town must cover 50% of the federal government’s legal costs, amounting to nearly $487,000. The total financial settlement is still subject to appeal.
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