Basketball was invented by James Naismith of Almonte Ontario

Photo: Lanark County Tourism Almonte, Ontario - Head for Bridge Street in this little village in Lanark County, 50 km southwest of Ottawa, and for one day each August don't be surprised if you find it closed and lined with 40 to 60 basketball nets. The sport basketball was invented by a local resident, James Naismith (Historical video), and for one day each summer the town holds a street competition. Naismith was born in Almonte in 1891 and taught physical education at McGill University in Montreal, then at the YMCA gymnasium of Springfield College, Massachusetts. He invented the game as a winter diversion for the young men at the 'Y', using a soccer ball, two peach baskets, and a set of 13 rules. For over a decade the balls were retrieved manually until open-ended nets were invented. The village's Naismith Museum and Hall of Fame is currently under renovation however a 'Hall of Fame' covering about 40 feet of wall space on both sides of the hall is still up for anyone to see. Where: The historic village of Almonte straddles Ontario’s Mississippi River. This is one of a number of heritage towns in Lanark County, a rural region of rolling countryside that starts at the western boundary of Ottawa. Visitors exploring the region can learn about maple syrup production, discover artisans studios, paddle the extensive waterways or relax at a spa. More Ontario Cool: You can swim with polar bears l world’s longest skating rink l Neutrino Observatory 2 km below ground l the original Mac l world's most lilacs l world's first long-distance telephone call l bank towers covered in gold l longest street in the world l 10,000 butterflies l Terry Fox l 5000 canoes & kayaks l For Better or For Worse l Uncle Tom's Cabin l Shania Twain's hometown l Winnie the Pooh l world’s most connected canoe routes l ice wine l world's longest freshwater beach l world's first Dark Sky Reserve l

Created by Travel Journalist Lucy Izon

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