Recently I was at Niagara Falls State park and I stopped at a placard I have driven by hundreds of…read moretimes. You may have as well. This is what is said: "First House Built By Judge Porter In 1808. Many Notable Visitors And Friendly Indians Were Received Within Its Walls." Its standing in a open lot, so the house is long gone. Judge Augustus Porter was a chief land surveyor for the Connecticut Land Company in the late 1790's. He is thought to be one of the first white settlers to the area (still occupied by various Indian tribes at the time). He bought this land near Niagara Falls, and built a sawmill (using the water power) and some other things. He was also a politician at the time, and was the State Assembly man for the Genesee and Ontario District at some point. He and his brother understood the value of the Falls as a tourist attraction and were able to make that happen. They built a bridge to Goat Island, got a ferry to cross the river, and planned gardens for people to come and enjoy. He was a busy man, and had a general store in the area, and then was a judge (the first for Niagara County) and postmaster (the first for Niagara Falls). A man of many talents. This was the site of the first home he built in the area. He had 5 children. Worth a quick stop along the road.

I only had an hour to explore Morningstar Mill but I'm glad I made a stop. I just happened to be…read morein Canada the same weekend the mill was running (It only operates about three times a year but is a nice place regardless). It's a small place and guests are able to explore the mill, see the process of grain made into flour, tour the home and barns and there's even a little trail. I saw a number of photographers there also, capturing family portraits. (I believe you have to have permission for this). I'm from the Midwest but had never seen a mill in operation. Never one to miss an experience, I hopped into each building to watch the process, ask questions of the volunteers and even brought a small sack of flour home (they did question me at the airport). I'm not sure if tours are provided, but if asked, the volunteers are eager to explain a few things. This is especially great for families with children who are of the age to understand the milling process and it's even cooler you can take some flour home and make something together. Worth a trip, especially if it's in operation! You could easily spend a couple hours or more exploring. A great Fall family excursion for sure. Morningstar Mill is a small, rural industrial heritage site owned by the City of St. Catharines and operated in partnership with the Friends of Morningstar Mill. It features a working grist mill built in 1872, a turbine shed, a sawmill, a blacksmith and carpentry shop and the historic home of the Morningstar family. The Mill provides a rare glimpse back in time to when moving water was used to mechanically grind grain into flour. Admission is free. Donations are encouraged. Check the website for up to date information on milling and tour schedules. Decew Falls are also nearby, as are many beautiful areas, vineyards and I stayed at Omi's Hause, a gem of a bed and breakfast just a few minutes away!

This hidden gem is one of the more picturesque stops in St. Catherine's on the way to Niagara…read moreFalls. Perfect for an afternoon dip for families and a romantic spot for couples. The mill here serves as a backdrop to the waterfalls, but it also houses a museum and there are tours every few days. There's a grassy area to the side where you can have a small picnic. The falls themselves are really nice and extremely cooling (it's actually cold near the water!) during a heat wave. To get down, a path leads you zigzagging across. There is also a short cut that involves a rope and a cliff. I actually made it up and down via the cliff and that rope, and for a sissy like me, you can do it too! The small wading area is nice for a dip. You can also walk behind the water falls for a whole other experience. Highly recommended are water shoes, as the rocky bottom is jagged and heard to walk in. Admission is free.

Hidden gem in the area!…read more I visited the falls after being in Saint Catherines for a wknd and it was stunning. To get to the falls you have to hike along a zig zag path and pass by beautiful views of the gorge and river. I would highly recommend coming here. But make sure you wear proper attire! The hike down to the river is very steep and bumpy. Do not be that person that hikes down with flats or sandals. Wear running shoes. Try to cover up and wear insect repellent as well. Definitely worth the trip!

The St. Catharines Cenotaph is located in Memorial Park and is a memorial to the brave men and…read morewomen from the Niagara region who served in various conflicts. It was unveiled on August 7, 1927 by Brigadier General W.B.M King, who commanded the 10th Brigade of the third Canadian Field Artillery Battery during the struggle for St. Julien at the second battle of Ypres in 1915. The monument is the centerpiece of a small park just north of the bridge on Saint Paul Street. It is comprised of a large column constructed out of brick and granite, mounted atop a concrete plinth, set on terrace level steps. In includes inscriptions and bronze plaques commemorating the sacrifices of local soldiers that recognize the Second World War, Korean War, Peacekeeping (2006) and the Merchant Navy were added later. At the top, front of the column is the St. Catharines crest and on the reverse side is a maple leaf. A scroll-like ornamentation is at the base of the column. A furled flag and maple leaf grace each side of the cenotaph, and the symbols of the different units that fought in the Great War are found encircling the structure. On the bottom plinth are two carved crosses. Originally there was a large reflecting pool at terrace level in front of the cenotaph, but it was removed in late 1930. There is a historical marker nearby that points out the heroism of Lance Corporal Fred Fisher, V.C., 1894-1915 [Yes, he was just barely 20 years old.]. It reads, "Born in St, Catharines, Fred Fisher abandoned his studies at McGill University when World War I broke out and served with the 13th Battalion, First Division, Canadian Expeditionary Force. Fisher was awarded the Victoria Cross for his exceptional courage in action near St. Julien, Belgium, on April 23, 1915, during the second battle of Ypres. Under very heavy fire he led a machine-gun detachment covering the withdrawal of an artillery battery. Though his crew fell to enemy attack, Fisher held their position. He then returned to the garrison for more men and advanced again to the firing line. Killed in action the next day, Fisher has no known grave." The park is a focal point for Remembrance Day ceremonies. [Review 2079 of 2024 - 190 in Ontario - 23098 overall]

Amazing Buffalo history on display on the cliffside shores of Lake Erie. The brand new visitor…read morecenter adds to the overall experience.

The last time I toured Graycliff it was almost 10 years ago and the house was under significant…read morerenovations. When I went back today for the tour, I was impressed to see every room restored! Our tour group only had 4 people total and took us about an hour and 20 mins to go through both floors of the house, and view the grounds. We really enjoyed everything, especially our knowledgeable tour guide and friendly gift shop attendant, Hannah! We'd love to come back again for a special event once the new visitor center opens in February.

Great landmark to take photo of,Built in 1892 and designed by David Roberts Jr., it is recognizable…read morefor its distinctive wedge shape, which lends it the name "flatiron". Also the St. Lawrence market is less than 5 min away, I recommend to check that one as well!

Gooderham Building is also known as the Flatiron Building. It does look like a flatiron. No it is…read morenot as famous as the Flatiron Building in NYC. The building is called the Flatiron building is due to its shape. Yes it is a triangular / iron like shape. The building is not tall and is only 5 stories high. This is a landmark of Toronto. The building was built in 1892. Behind the building is Berczy Park. It is very interesting that there is a 3D mural behind the Gooderham Building.

The Porter Mansion is a historical mansion in Niagara Falls once owned by the Porter family who…read moreactually 'owned' the falls and the property along the Niagara River leading up to the falls. It is now owned and being g restored by the Tatler Club which in itself is historic. A private women's club formed in 1925 when the women's movement was reshaping the country. They now are working on the preservation of the mansion and host tours ND event here. I had the pleasure of attending a fundraiser for the Niagara Arts & Curtural Center, aka the NACC, called Opera-tizer Spring Tea. It was an afternoon with lunch, wine, opera, dessert, and tea. My knowledge of opera is limited but I must say the opera singers were outstanding. The setting was beautiful and the food was great. Very enjoyable day. If you get the opportunity to check out this great place please do. 2023-42

Visited Osgoode Hall while exploring downtown Toronto. The…read morehistoric building is impressive, and the architecture is beautiful. It's easy to walk around and take in the details, with plenty of spots for photos. The guided areas are informative, though some parts are crowded during peak hours. The surrounding courtyard is peaceful and perfect for a short break. Staff are helpful and polite when approached for information. Overall, a must-visit for history and architecture enthusiasts, with a calm, relaxed atmosphere.

Stepping into Black Creek Pioneer Village feels like a warm hug from the past It's one of my…read moreabsolute favorite escapes from the city's hustle and bustle. As an educator, I'm always enchanted by how they bring history to life - the historic gardens are meticulously kept, and the artisans in the workshops are so passionate about their heritage crafts. I spent my last visit sitting near the old mill with my sketchbook, enjoying the peace and the smell of fresh woodsmoke. It's such a grounding experience, whether you're here for a quiet stroll or a family day trip. If you appreciate the simpler things in life and want to see a different side of Ontario's history, please visit! It's a true neighborhood treasure