In the late 19th century, Mirror Landing was a stopping point along a trail for travellers to the Peace Country from Fort Edmonton via Athabasca Landing. By 1911, Mirror Landing was one of numerous stopping points for unimpeded steamboat travel between Athabasca Landing and Lesser Slave Lake.[5]
The community was incorporated as the Village of Fort Cornwall on October 27, 1913,[1] although it was referred to as Port Cornwall as early as January 1914.[4] According to Alberta Municipal Affairs, Port Cornwall had a population of 200 in 1913.[6]
By early 1914, the village had over 30 businesses and numerous residences. Infrastructure included streetlights and sidewalks. It also included a government telegraph office and quarters for the Royal North-West Mounted Police. At this time, plans were also underway for the building of a school and a Methodist church.[4]
However, early 1914 would also spell the beginning of the end for the village. The Edmonton, Dunvegan and British Columbia Railway had reached the present location of Smith, across the confluence of the Lesser Slave and Athabasca rivers from Port Cornwall. Subdivision of the Smith townsite began as a result, and Port Cornwall's demise began.[5]
Ultimately, the Village of Port Cornwall later disorganized on September 11, 1917.[2]
