Did you know that The Scotsman Hotel dates back to 1805? Originally serving as the town's post office, it was later transformed into The Post House Inn, preserving its historical significance. Owners Brenda and Blair, recognizing its importance, meticulously preserved its heritage while bringing their vision to life.
While The Scotsman Hotel building exudes history, so does the town of Niagara-On-The-Lake (NOTL), steeped in the legacy of war. Notable battlegrounds include Fort George and Fort Mississauga, pivotal military posts defending Upper Canada against American incursions. Additionally, Laura Secord’s Homestead stands as a testament to bravery, marking the starting point of her legendary 32-kilometer journey to warn the British of an impending attack. The McFarland House, where Scotsman John McFarland offered refuge as a hospital for both American and British soldiers, is another poignant reminder of the town's rich heritage.
Furthermore, Queenston Heights, a historical park, offers picturesque hiking trails and is home to the Landscape of Nations Memorial, as well as both the Brock and Laura Secord Monuments. The Brock’s Monument, built in 1853 with Queenston limestone, is a 16-foot statue of Major General Sir Isaac Brock, who was tragically killed in the Battle of Queenston Heights in 1812.
From the resilience of Indigenous communities to the pioneering spirit of European settlers, the roots of Niagara-on-The-Lake run deep, spanning centuries of exploration and discovery.
One notable fixture in recent history is the distinguished Shaw Festival which stands as a cultural cornerstone within the historic district of NOTL. While its inaugural season commenced in 1962, it wasn't until a decade later, in 1973, that the festival solidified its presence as a revered fixture in NOTL. This momentous occasion was graced by the official opening ceremony performed by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.
If you've ever wandered through the historic district of NOTL, you've likely been struck by the unique architectural style of its buildings, a legacy of the Loyalist settlers during the War of 1812. Known as the British Classical Tradition, this distinctive style has infused NOTL with a timeless charm, making each visit to the area a memorable experience. Many of these buildings have been restored by residents in order to preserve their distinct features.
Have you ever wondered why NOTL has become widely known for its wineries? The region's first commercial winery emerged in Niagara in 1873, marking the beginning of a rapid expansion. Nestled between Lake Ontario and the Niagara River, NOTL benefits from milder summers and cooler winters, creating an optimal climate for cultivating a diverse range of wines, including ice wine. Additionally, the natural early arrival of spring in NOTL extends the growing season, nurturing grapes to full ripeness and intensifying the flavours in the wines produced. This rich variety of flavours and wines has transformed NOTL into a premier tourist destination for enthusiasts seeking the perfect glass of wine.
And finally, the world-renowned Niagara Falls, with a history stretching over 12,000 years, stands as a must-see attraction. When glaciers melted, this caused the formation of the Great Lakes we know today, with Lake Erie flowing downhill toward Lake Ontario. This rush of water carved a path through the landscape, eventually passing through the Niagara Escarpment—a steep cliff-like formation. Initially, the falls cascaded over the escarpment, shaping today's breathtaking falls.
Did you know that Niagara Falls shrinks by approximately one foot per year and flows at approximately 56 kilometers/hour (35 miles/hour)?
With over 12.95 million tourists to the Niagara Region, there is something to see and learn about Niagara. If any of these historic sites pique your interest, do not hesitate to contact the staff at The Scotsman Hotel. We would be delighted to arrange a personalized visit for you.
