Niagara-on-the-Lake - The Past Preserved
The Niagara Apothecary is situated right on Queen Street across from the Clock Tower. The building was the site of one of the first pharmacies in Upper Canada. Step back in time and enjoy the many historic artefacts that were part of the medical profession in the early 1800's. Most of the original containers that contained medicines are still on view at the Apothecary.
Niagara Historical Society & Museum was founded in 1895 by Jane Carnochan with a three-fold purpose 1. Encourage the study of Canadian History and Literature. 2. to collect and preserve Canadian historical records and relics 3. To build Canadian loyalty and patriotism. The construction of the Memorial Hall began in 1906, the first building in Ontario constructed for the sole purpose of housing a museum. It was built to honour the United Empire Loyalists. It currently houses one of the finest collections of early Canadian artefacts and archives. Visitors to the Museum are impressed with the impressive collection reflecting not only the early history of Niagara-on-the-Lake but of Canada itself. The Museum, dedicated to 10,000 years of Niagara-on-the-Lake History is open 7 days a week.
There is also a gallery of artefacts from the War of 1812, the Carnochan gallery and a temporary exhibition gallery. The Museum has one of Ontario's most impressive collections of early furniture, textiles, military and Canadiana. Documents, images and artefacts from the early settlement of Ontario, the War of 1812 up to the development of industry and fruit growing in Niagara and the culture of tourism are represented in the collection. Located in Old Town on Castlereagh Street, the Museum is open 10:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. from May to October and from November to April it is open from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. daily.
The Heritage District of Niagara-on-the-Lake looks like a living postcard. Whether it's summer, fall, winter or spring, the streets are reminiscent of an earlier, simpler time. Wonderfully restored, many of the buildings reflect the architectural creations of that time and house a myriad of special shops, restaurants, and small inns.
A stroll down the streets of Niagara-on-the-Lake is a favourite pastime for visitors and residents alike. In the fall, the wonderful smell of ripening grapes, coupled with cottage industry jam making fills the air with a delicious aroma.
During the winter months, Niagara-on-the-Lake resembles a winter wonderland or an old fashioned Christmas card. Shoppes are decked out in their best Christmas finery and little inns beckon the walker in for a sip of something warm and comforting. Some would argue that spring in Niagara-on-the-Lake is the most beautiful season of all, with the orchards blossoming with the promise of the bounty to come. Queen Street is festooned with colourful flowers and window boxes spilling over with gorgeous blooms. Spring truly awakens in Niagara-on-the-Lake.
