From its simple beginning as the Chaffey's family residence in early 19th century Upper Canada, to a boarding house in the 1890's, to a men's fishing club in the early 1900's, The Opinicon has evolved into one of Eastern Ontario's oldest and most respected resorts. It has been owned and operated by the same family since 1921 and, while retaining its grandeur, has been updated to offer every convenience, restful accommodation and unsurpassed cuisine. The photo to the right shows a group of guests approximately 1903.

The Canal, opened in 1832 was built to connect Kingston with Ottawa and thus avoid the rapids of the St. Lawrence. A major construction project for its time, this navigable waterway became a busy thoroughfare of commerce during the 19th Century but to-day the steamers have been replaced by vacationers enjoying the natural beauty of the corridor.