In 1827, in recognition of Peter Robinson and his efforts to bring settlers to the area, Scott’s Plains was given a new name. At the suggestion of early settler Frances Stewart, the area was renamed Peterborough and on January 1, 1850, Peterborough was officially incorporated as a town. At this time, Peterborough changed quickly from backwoods to boomtown. This increasing growth brought opportunities and challenges for the diverse populations of new immigrants and First Nations.