- Pike Creek, Ontario
Pike Creek is a rural area in
Lakeshore, Ontario named after the creek that runs through it. It consists of mainly over-sized, residential estate lots, with a few established businesses and a trailor park. During recent years, the quality of life around Pike Creek has diminished somewhat, as its tranquil setting is challenged by the encroachment of industry and development on all sides. Municipal title to the land was somewhat unclear for this area prior to the creation of Lakeshore in1999 , although the residents were always certain they were not part of Tecumseh.The area itself is unique in that it has existed as a residential establishment for some time, with a low degree of outside settlement. Many of the residents on the two roads that wind with the creek are related and have lived there their entire life. Notable family names that have inhabited the region since it's establishment in the 1800's include Campeau, Ruggaber and Wilder. [Bell Canada Phonebook] Their descendents still proudly populate the area and hope to maintain its exclusivity.
Visitors and outsiders are easily distinguished by their use of the word "creek" instead of the native pronunciation "crick". [Just ask a local to say their street name.]
Contrary to popular belief there are actually no pike fish living in Pike Creek; the name is purely ironic. Historians maintain that they did live here at one time, however due to global warming they have migrated south.
Noted Pike Creek explorer Steven Wilder has launched several expeditions into the dangerous rapids. [Carolyn Wilder] Fortunately he has not yet developed the dreaded third eye disease most often associated with extended contact with the murky water.
Recent efforts by the "Freinds of Pike Creek" group have resulted in a somewhat cleaner creek. These clean-up efforts have led to the removal of fridges and other appliances, tires and car parts, countless empty beer bottles and Robert Goulet's body.
Wikimedia Foundation. 2010.