Do you love waterfront views? Lush, verdant landscapes? Beautifully preserved heritage homes? A walkable downtown with trendy, modern shops and restaurants?
Sounds like Niagara-on-the-Lake is the place for you!
Niagara-on-the-Lake is not only one of the affluent communities in Canada, but it is also one of the best places to live, according to a recent report by Maclean's magazine. Ranking eight out of the top 25 communities in Canada, Niagara-on-the-Lake was applauded for its demographics, wealth and economy, and weather.
The land on which Niagara-on-the-Lake stands today was originally a Native Indian village named Onghiara. In 1781, the British purchased the land from the Mississaugas and established Butlersburg, which later became West Niagara. Families began to set up homes and at this time the famous Fort George was built.
Soon after in 1792, Governor Simcoe named the site Newark, and chose it as the first capital of Upper Canada. However, because of its proximity to the American border, it was later changed to York in 1797. A year later, Newark was renamed Niagara.
In the years to come, Niagara played a central role in the War of 1812. Soldiers occupying the town fought off American forces as they began to invade and destroy their land. But ultimately Niagara was taken in the Battle of Fort George after a two-day bombardment by cannons.
After the war, the British rebuilt the town and began introducing industry. Around 1880 it finally adopted its present name to differentiate itself from the nearby Niagara Falls. Although, it wasn’t until the Town of Niagara and the Township of Niagara merged in 1970 that it became official.
As time passed, the quaint historical town grew to include the Old Town, Villages of Virgil and St. David’s, and the hamlet of Queenston.
Given its rich history, it’s no wonder the city has also been a site for several Canadian firsts, including the first agricultural society, the first legislature of Upper Canada and the first library.
Everywhere you turn there are sites steeped in history. Fort George, Navy Hall, Queenston Heights and Brock’s Monument are just a few of the historical sites the small town has to offer.
Today, over a hundred years after its establishment, Niagara-on-the-Lake is home to a variety of modern luxuries, including over 100 fruitful vineyards.
The wine country is one of the most acclaimed grape-growing and winemaking regions in Ontario.
Its long summers and moderate winters also enable growers to provide some of the best fruit and vegetables in the province, making it a hotbed for farm-to-table dining and farmer’s markets.
But there is more to this town than just food and wine. The old town is also filled with culture and entertainment. The Shaw Festival performs plays and musicals from spring to fall and there is also the FirstOntario Performing Arts Centre, which showcases popular music, theatre, comedy and dance.
Niagara-on-the-Lake has so much to offer. It’s no wonder so many are looking to call it home. Not only is it filled with history and culture, but the cost of living is also not as high, with homes costing 5% less than the national average.
If you’re looking to discover what wine country has to offer, contact McGarr Realty! Our team of realtors is familiar with the ins and outs of this historic town and would be happy to show you its available real estate!
McGarr Realty helps great people, just like you, buy and sell Niagara real estate. You can contact our Niagara-on-the-Lake real estate team at 905-468-9229 or our St. Catharines team at 905-687-9229. Or send us a message here.
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