Fort York was built in 1793 to fend of an anticipated American invasion. But when it failed to materialize the fort fell into disrepair only to be rebuilt in the face of mounting tensions before the onset of the 1812 war.
Upper Canada
German Company Tract
The Militia Act exempting Quakers, Mennonites and Trunkers from military service as pacifists was key to attracting settlers to south-central Ontario in the early to mid 1800s.
Overview – Early Settlement in Upper Canada
Upper Canada was formed by an Act of British Parliament with the goal to encourage settlement along the Great Lakes and into what became Southern Ontario. Pioneer life was demanding but it didn’t stop the formation of the elite Family Compact.
Loyalist Trek to Upper Canada
At the end of the American War of Independence, thousands found themselves living in a foreign land. Animosity ran high and people who had fought for their king were suddenly traitors.