Discovery Series Ornament – Niagara-on-the-Lake
The release of the Discovery Ornament Niagara-On-The-Lake is yet another confirmation that this new series will be pretty big, with mugs and ornaments for more places than the previous collections. In the case of Niagara-on-the-Lake, we’ve seen it before in the form of the full-size mug, but not the ornament.
Niagara-on-the-Lake, located in Ontario (Canada), was originally known as Butlersburg. It was later renamed Newark when it became the first capital of Upper Canada in 1792. The town played a significant role during the War of 1812, when it was burned down by American forces in 1813. Rebuilt and renamed Niagara, it continued to be an important military and political center. In order to differentiate the town from Niagara Falls, the current name of the town, Niagara-on-the-Lake, was chosen as a postal address around 1880. Following the merger of the Township of Niagara and the Town of Niagara in 1970, the name was formally adopted. Today, Niagara-on-the-Lake is renowned for its well-preserved 19th-century architecture, which reflects its colonial past and its pivotal role in Canadian history.
The sailboat on the front of the ornament reminds us about Niagara-on-the-Lake offering excellent opportunities for water enthusiasts, thanks to its prime location at the confluence of Lake Ontario and the Niagara River. The town’s picturesque shoreline provides ideal conditions for a variety of water activities, including kayaking, paddleboarding, and sailing. Visitors can explore the calm waters of the Niagara River, enjoying stunning views of the town’s historic waterfront and the surrounding natural beauty.
The Niagara region, nestled between Lake Ontario and Lake Erie, is renowned for its exceptional vineyards and orchards. This area’s unique microclimate, influenced by the lakes and the Niagara Escarpment, creates ideal conditions for growing both grapes and tender fruit. The region has become famous for its world-class wines, particularly ice wines, with numerous award-winning wineries dotting the landscape. Equally celebrated are Niagara’s luscious peaches, which thrive in the area’s fertile soils and temperate climate. These sweet, juicy fruits are a local delicacy, eagerly anticipated each summer.
Niagara-on-the-Lake offers enchanting wine bike tours, combining scenic countryside rides with exquisite wine-tasting experiences. Cyclists pedal through picturesque vineyards and along quiet country roads, stopping at several wineries to sample the region’s renowned vintages. These tours typically cover 10-15 miles of flat terrain, making them accessible to riders of various skill levels. Guided options provide insights into local wine production and history, while self-guided tours allow for a more leisurely pace.
The golf player on the back of the ornament is probably a reference to the Niagara-on-the-Lake Golf Club, which is open to the public and provides a scenic golfing experience.