Gananoque to host historic town criers’ competition

Hear ye, hear ye!

The echoes of a centuries-old tradition will ring through Gananoque this May as the town hosts its first-ever Ontario Town Crier Championships.

On May 17 and 18, Town Hall will serve as the stage for some of the province’s most skilled criers, competing in an event that hearkens back to a time when loud voices carried the news of the day.

Gananoque’s own Town Crier, Brian Mabee, who also serves as a councillor for the neighbouring Township of Leeds and the Thousand Islands, is leading the charge in welcoming the competition to town.

Organizers expect around 20 criers to participate, each bringing their unique style and energy to the competition.

The contest is set to feature three separate “cries,” with two taking place on May 17 at 10 a.m. and 1:30 p.m., followed by a final cry on May 18 at 11 a.m.

Each cry will be judged by a panel of five, with a new set of judges for each round, ensuring fairness and variety in scoring.

Town criers have been a staple of public life since the 1400s and 1500s, long before newspapers became widely accessible.                   +In an era when literacy was limited, criers were the trusted voices delivering proclamations, royal decrees, and community news.

They were often dressed in elaborate regalia, complete with a bell to signal announcements.

Criers were the original broadcasters of information.

Gananoque, known for celebrating its rich history, has its own proud tradition with town criers. Mabee himself is a familiar presence at local events, keeping the tradition alive with his booming voice and ceremonial attire.

With the Ontario Town Crier Championships event now set to make its debut in Gananoque, the town is preparing for a lively showcase of history, skill, and spirited competition.