Hanesville

Hanesville (often spelled Hainsville in historical records) was named after the Hanes family, who were prominent early settlers in the area. Richard Hanes (also spelled Haines) served as the Reeve of Matilda Township and a member of the regional drainage committee in the late 19th century. The community grew around the lands and businesses of the Hanes descendants, many of whom were United Empire Loyalists of German (Palatine) descent. The Hanes family was among the first European settlers in Dundas County, arriving around 1784 after the American Revolutionary War. Figures like Johannes "John" George Hanes and his descendants established farms and residences in the area.

Hanesville is a small hamlet situated north of the St. Lawrence River. While it never grew into a large town, it remained a distinct community center with its own cemetery, which still bears the name today. The village's location is still marked by Hainsville Road. This area was notably the site of the famous 1976 "Super Jump" attempt by stuntman Ken Carter.

The community’s post office was established in 1887. In 1905, the position of postmaster was held by H.A. Johnston, who also operated a general store in the village. As of 1905, Hanesville had a population of 50 residents.

The village supported several essential trades and services at that time, including:

Blacksmith: William Barkley.
Carpenter: W.J.D. Thompson.
Dairy Industry: A cheese and butter manufacturing facility operated by William Reynolds.

Hanesville was home to a substantial brick church. This church was built one year after the "Brown Church" in Brinston (which was constructed in the early 1870s). Around 1903, the building underwent thorough repairs.

The local school was S.S. No. 18 Hainsville, which was originally located at the southwest corner of Lot 30, Concession 5, before being moved across to Lot 31. The school closed in 1967, after which students were sent to Nationview Public School, Pittston, or Hulbert.

The community features a World War II Memorial dedicated to former students of Hanesville Public School who died in service. The men honored on this memorial are Harold Irvine, Alex Johnston, and Gerald Warren.

Sources:

Chesterville Record

Canadian Official Postal Guide

SDG Counties History

Upper Canada District School Board

Dundas County Directory