Members of the Rotary Club of St. Marys enjoyed a fascinating presentation from Lauri Leduc, a local historian and entrepreneur who has transformed her passion for history into a thriving walking tour business in both Stratford and St. Marys.
Lauri began by sharing her personal journey. Originally from the region, she studied history at Western University and built a career in the municipal sector before spending several years living in England. While abroad, she and her husband frequently participated in walking tours—an experience that planted the seed for what would eventually become her own business.
Upon returning to Canada and settling in St. Marys, Lauri decided to pursue a new direction. Drawing on her academic background and love of local history, she launched a walking tour business in Stratford, now entering its third season. With support from local tourism organizations and her own extensive research, she developed tours that highlight the architecture, history, and stories that shape the region.
Her work soon expanded beyond traditional history tours. Responding to public interest and local opportunities, Lauri introduced ghost tours, which have proven especially popular. These tours blend carefully researched historical events with local legends, creating a unique storytelling experience that resonates with a wide audience.
Lauri shared several examples from her St. Marys tours, including stories connected to the town’s quarry industry, early mills, and notable historical figures. One particularly compelling story involved a 19th-century doctor whose life was upended by a mysterious death—an event that continues to fuel local legend today. While Lauri emphasized that her stories are grounded in historical research, she also acknowledged that part of their appeal lies in the mystery and folklore that surround them.
Her tours are designed to be accessible and engaging, typically lasting about an hour and covering approximately two kilometres. By keeping group sizes small, Lauri creates an intimate experience that encourages conversation and allows participants to fully immerse themselves in the stories being told.
In addition to her regular tours, Lauri continues to expand her offerings with creative ideas such as themed events, collaborations, and seasonal experiences. Her work not only attracts visitors to the area but also encourages local residents to see familiar places in a new light.
Interested in experiencing these stories firsthand? Explore upcoming tours or book your own experience at:
https://www.stratfordwalkingtours.ca/
Lauri’s presentation highlighted the value of local history as both a community asset and an opportunity for innovation. By combining research, storytelling, and entrepreneurship, she has created an experience that celebrates the unique character of our region.
The Rotary Club of St. Marys thanks Lauri Leduc for an engaging and informative presentation, and for helping bring the stories of our community to life.