Amherstview, Ontario, is a charming unincorporated community nestled in the township of Loyalist. Located on the picturesque north shore of Lake Ontario, it boasts a population of approximately 7,959 as of 2016. Adjacent to the city of Kingston, Amherstview is considered part of the Greater Kingston area. The community's name is derived from Amherst Island, which lies directly to the south in Lake Ontario. The original spelling, "Amherst View," was commonly used when the community was first established in the 1950s.
The name "Amherst" is a common place name found in many parts of Canada. It commemorates Lord Jeffrey Amherst (1717–97), a Field-Marshal of the British Army, Commander-in-Chief in North America, and Governor General of British North America from 1760 to 1763. Amherstview marks the eastern end of the Loyalist Parkway, a stretch of Highway 33 that travels along Lake Ontario, in an area where many United Empire Loyalists settled.
One of the historical landmarks in Amherstview is the Fairfield House, situated in Fairfield Park on the shore of Lake Ontario. Constructed in 1793 by the Fairfield family, who were among the first Loyalists to settle the area, the house served as the family home and a portion of the building was also used as a tavern for some time. This impressive wood-frame building now functions as a museum, exhibiting period artifacts and furniture and offering guided tours.
As part of Loyalist Township, Amherstview has no legal boundaries. However, general boundaries are Lake Ontario to the south, the Canadian National rail line to the north, Coronation Boulevard to the east (the City of Kingston boundary), and Lennox and Addington County Road 6 to the west.
Amherstview is home to the Henderson Recreation Centre, a hub of community activity. The centre houses a public library, a 25 m public swimming pool, and an arena. It also includes an outdoor soccer field. The community is also home to the educational institutions Amherstview Public School, an elementary and middle school catering to students in grades kindergarten through eighth grade. Public transportation between Amherstview and Kingston is provided by Kingston Transit, ensuring easy connectivity for residents and visitors alike.
