Fort York marks the beginning of modern day Toronto. It was on this spot in 1793 that Lieutenant Governor John Graves Simcoe built a garrision to protect the British colony of Upper Canada from the threat of invasion by the newly independent United States of America.
In 1796 the same governor moved the capital of Upper Canada from Newark (now Niagara-on-the-Lake) to Fort York for defensive purposes. A community soon develped to the East of Fort York, calling itself York.
York was attacked by American forces during the War of 1812, pillaged, and partially burned down on 27 April 1813. The British were able to return to Fort York in the Autumn of 1813, and built the fortification that stands today.
York changed its name to Toronto on 6 Mar 1834, marking the historic birth of the City.
Fort York opened as an historic site museum in 1934. It is home to Canada's largest collection of original War of 1812 buildings.
The Fort offers a number of services, including guided tours and exhibits.
During the summer months, the site comes alive with the colour and the pageantry of the Fort York Guard.
Opening Hours
Daily:
Mid May - end of Aug: 10am - 5pm
Sep - mid Dec: 10am - 4pm
Mid Dec - 1 Jan: Closed
Jan - mid May: 10am - 4:30pm
Prices:
Adults: $8
Address
Fort York
100 Garrison Rd
Toronto
M5V 3K9
Tel: 416-392-6917
How to Get There
Subway: Bathurst Station on the Bloor-Danforth line.
Take the 511 streetcar south from Bathurst subway station. There is a foot bridge connecting Bathurst Street to the fort's eastern gate.
External Links
www.fortyork.ca
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