History
Niagara on The Lake, or NOTL, has a long history as one of the first settlements in the Niagara Region. The European history of NOTL can be traced back to the late 1700's. The land was purchased by the British government in 1781, and by 1782, sixteen families had settled there. Ten years later, the Town of Newark, as NOTL was then known, became the first capitol of the newly formed colony of Upper Canada. The first five parliamentary sessions were held here.
Due to it's proximity to the United States and its strategically strong location at the mouth of the Niagara River, it quickly became an important centre in the early history of Upper Canada. During the second session of Parliament, Canada became the first British Colony to abolish slavery. It was also known as an important stop for freed slaves travelling the undergound railway.
The town suffered a major set back during the War of 1812. While the entire Niagara region was involved in various capacities during the war, NOTL took the most serious damage to the town itself. Fort George and the surrounding town were captured by the Americans. Upon their withdrawal, the entire town and Fort were burned to the ground. The only surviving original structure in the powder magazine at Fort George.
The citizens of the area were quick to rebuild, and before long the town was growing again. During the 1930's, historic Fort George was rebuilt, with advice by the Royal Corps of Engineers to help alleviate the Great Depression. Much effort has been made to retain the charm of the town, and historical plaques feature heavily into the landscape around the town.
Current Life
NOTL today has retained most of its old time charm. The historic downtown area has a reputation as the 'Loveliest Town in Canada'. It is protected as a National Historic Site, allowing it to keep its charm through various developments. Horse drawn carriage are a regular site, and the Queen Street area at night is a beatiful sight.
The town is controlled by an elected council, who excersise tight controls on the appearance of the town. This helps to ensure that it maintains its reputation. The eight member council is led by the Lord Mayor, the only mayor with such a title in Canada. This is a holdover from its days as the capitol of Upper Canada.
The economy in the town is heavily tourism and services based. The beauty of the town perseveres through the seasons, so the town sees tourists throughout the years. The limited changes allowed in the town have allowed a number of Bed and Breakfasts to arise, giving a homey feel for visitors. Sitting at the eastern end of the Niagara Parkway, NOTl is a 20 minute scenic drive along the Niagara Gorge to Niagara Falls.
The area's quiet lifestyle and scenic look has enticed a large number of retirees to move to the area. Nearly one quarter of the population is currently over the age of 65, which is higher than any of the surrounding region. There are many local paths and walks to visit, and it is not uncommon to see couples walking the neighbourhood and chatting with neighbours.
Entertainment
Niagara on the Lake is best known for its relaxed lifestyle and its easy living.
For the historically minded, there are few better places in Canada for both observing and researching our nation's past. It's hard to walk far in Niagara on the Lake without encountering an historic plaque. There are parks to explore, and the scenic homes and businesses can fill many afternoons of walk. The town also has an active historical society, able to help you if history is your hobby.
For those of a more active lifestyle, the town boasts an excellent golf course directly beside it's downtown area. Minor hockey can be viewed out of the town's two arenas, or one can travel a few minutes down the road to Virgil. The Leisureplex in Virgil is the area's most comprehensive sporting facility, hosting a variety of different sports.
Shopping in NOTL is a laid back experience. With no big box stores to speak of, residents can spend time walking up and down Queen street, visiting the various boutique shops available. For more general shopping, several small plazas have recently opened on the town outskirts, giving residents an alternative to the more distant shopping centres of St. Catharines. For those times when a small shop won't do, St. Catharines is just a short drive away, either along scenic Lakeshore Road, or more directly via Stone Rd.
Dining
Dining in NOTL is again a hometown affair. The area is known for it's dislike of chain stores, and the downtown area bears this out. Most dining options in the area are locally owned and operated independants. Many of these are famous for their excellent quality and service.
While much of the focus is on providing a more upscale service, general service does exist. Pizza delivery is available, and is now a McDonald's located at the periphery of the town. There are also several local diners and Tim Horton's now within walking distance of downtown.
