Fergus (2011 population 19,126) is the largest community in Centre Wellington, a township within Wellington County in Ontario, Canada. It lies on the Grand River about 25 km north of Guelph.

The first settlers to this area were freed slaves who formed what was known as the Pierpoint Settlement, named after their leader, Richard Pierpoint. Along with a half dozen other men, Pierpoint was granted land in Garafraxa Township somewhere around what is now Scotland Street in Fergus.

In 1833, just a quarter mile from the Pierpoint settlement, Little Falls was established by Adam Fergusson . Along with fellow Scot James Webster, he purchased 7,000 acres (2,832.80 ha) (28 km²) of uncleared land in Nichol Township and laid out the town of Fergus. Fergusson and Webster both emigrated from the lowlands of Scotland, and were both Advocates by profession. Webster took up residence here and supervised the settlement's early development.

The first house of this predominantly Scottish community was erected in 1833. A hotel was built in 1834 and a sawmill, grist mill, church and school followed in 1835.

They soon established a vibrant economy, using the waterfalls on the Grand River as power for local industry. The Scots built solid stone houses, factories and other buildings which have characterized Fergus to this day. Many of the houses and factories built by these early settlers are still in use today—occasionally occupied by descendents of the original owners.

Fergus is located north of Guelph and sits on the Grand River. It is near many natural settings such as the Elora Gorge and Conservation Area, and Belwood Lake. Fergus is a quiet, mostly residential community filled with streets lined with trees, many stone buildings, modern schools, and attractive parklands. It is laid out on a rectangular grid, with the Grand River flowing through the downtown heritage centre, it's limestone riverbanks surrounding it.

Fergus and Centre Wellington in general are home to many industries, manufacturers, retailers and trades people. The local economy also benefits greatly from tourism.

Fergus is best known for the annual Scottish Festival and Highland Games, held in August. The games represent the largest gathering of clans in the world outside Scotland and Cape Breton Island. Competitions are held for music, dancing and 'heavy' events such as the caber toss. A 10 km (6.21 mi) run is also contested.

en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fergus,_Ontario