St. Catharines, Ontario

St. Catharines (2001 population 129,170; metropolitan population 377,009) is the largest city in the Regional Municipality of Niagara in southern Ontario, Canada.

The city was first settled by Loyalists in 1790. Originally known as Shipman's Corners for an important tavern in the community, it gained its present name sometime in the early 19th century.

Manufacturing is the city's dominant industry. General Motors operates two plants in the city and up until recently was the city's largest employer.

St. Catharines is also home to Brock University, and is the northern entrance of the Welland Canal.