Acton was settled in 1825 by the Rev. Ezra, Rev. Zenas and Rufus Adams. Before it became known as Acton it went through two name changes Danville, Adamsville and finally in 1844 it was named Acton.
The Adams brothers were drawn to Acton by the area which is now known as the Flour Mill. The brothers damned the creek to create the Mill pond which was used to power their saw mill. The Mill pond named "Fairy Lake" surrounds Prospect Park today.
Main St was Acton's main street. The Adams family laid out the streets in grid patterns naming them after their family members. Around 700 inhabitants lived here until the arrival of the Grand Trunk Train in 1856 which drew new residents to this small village
The tanning company began in 1842 under Abraham Nelles and later bought by the Beardmore tanning company in 1844. Acton also supported many other industries related to leather. This is how Acton adopted the name "Leathertown."
Acton was part of Esquesing Township until 1874 when it was incorporated as a village. The Town Hall was erected in 1882 for the municipal council, the constabulary and the fire brigade. When Acton became part of Halton Hills in 1974, the hall was no longer needed. ...
Designated an historic building in 1977, it was eventually sold to Heritage Acton for one dollar. They are presently restoring the building which still includes the nineteenth century lockup. The other principal public buildings in Acton include its centennial projects: the Hydro offices, which were considerably enlarged in 1988-89 and the Public Library, whose park like setting includes a small arched bridge popular with photographers.
Acton today still preserves the history of the settlers who created this once small village. Although the residents and the town have increased through the years, Acton is still known for its small, quiet and friendly atmosphere. Its definitely "worth the drive to Acton."
