Discovery – Niagara-on-the-Lake
Starbucks Discovery Niagara-on-the-Lake is a bigger version of the ornament that we saw earlier. On top of the symbols and landmarks from the mini mug, we have the following points of interest incorporated in the design:
– Fort George stands as a remarkable testament to Canada’s military heritage, having played a crucial role in defending Upper Canada during the War of 1812. The fort’s well-preserved wooden buildings and earthen ramparts offer visitors an authentic glimpse into early 19th-century military life, complete with soldiers in period uniforms demonstrating musket firing and military drills. The site’s seven buildings house fascinating exhibits featuring original artifacts while guided tours provide compelling narratives about the fort’s pivotal role in Canadian history, including its capture by American forces in 1813 and subsequent recapture by British forces.
– The picturesque Queen Street serves as the heart of Niagara-on-the-Lake’s historic district, lined with beautifully preserved 19th-century buildings that house an eclectic mix of boutiques, galleries, and restaurants. Horse-drawn carriages clip-clop along the street’s brick sidewalks while hanging flower baskets and carefully maintained gardens add splashes of color to the Victorian-era architecture. Visitors can spend hours exploring the unique shops offering everything from handmade chocolates to local wines, while the street’s numerous patios and restaurants provide perfect spots for people-watching and enjoying the town’s relaxed atmosphere.
– The Niagara District Court House, built in 1847, represents one of the finest examples of Classical Revival architecture in Ontario and continues to be a cornerstone of the town’s historic district. During its active years, the courthouse witnessed numerous significant legal proceedings and served as the center of justice for the Niagara District, playing a crucial role in maintaining law and order in the region. Today, while the building houses the Shaw Festival Theatre’s production facilities, its imposing façade and grand columns remain a testament to the importance of law and governance in early Canadian society.
– The Memorial Clock Tower stands as a poignant tribute to the town’s fallen soldiers of World War I, serving as the centerpiece of Queen Street since its construction in 1922. The tower’s distinctive design, featuring a four-faced clock and elegant limestone construction, makes it one of the most photographed landmarks in Niagara-on-the-Lake. Each evening at sunset, the tower’s illumination creates a striking silhouette against the darkening sky, while its bells continue to mark the hours as they have done for over a century.
– Brock’s Monument, a towering 185-foot limestone column, stands atop Queenston Heights as a memorial to Major-General Sir Isaac Brock, who fell during the Battle of Queenston Heights in 1812. The monument offers visitors who climb its 235 steps breathtaking views of the surrounding Niagara region, including the winding Niagara River and the distant skylines of both Canada and the United States. The site not only commemorates Brock’s sacrifice but also serves as a symbol of Canadian resistance during the War of 1812, with guided tours providing detailed accounts of the battle and the monument’s construction history.
