Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Mackenzie Printery and Newspaper Museum
The power of the press in determining Ontario's fate is on display at the
Mackenzie
Printery and Newspaper Museum
(1 Queenston St., 905/262-5676,
www.niagaraparksheritage.com
,
10am-5pm daily May-Aug., 10am-5pm Sat.-Sun. Sept.-
Oct., $5 adults, $3.75 children 6-16). The printery is a restoration of the home of William
Lyon Mackenzie, a 19th-century publisher and advocate for government reform. The mu-
seum is a stately limestone, Federal-style home built using the original plans of Macken-
zie's 1850s home. The museum is small, but allows for hands-on learning on a historical
printing press.
Mackenzie was a businessman who wanted to change the existing political framework
that favored British-born subjects at the expense of those who had emigrated from the Un-
ited States. Mackenzie was elected to office, led an ill-fated and ineffective revolt, spent
time in jail, and helped create reform in Canada's government. Docents bring to life Mack-
enzie's firebrand advocacy and his principled resistance to government cronyism.
Docents also discuss printing press history over 500 years. The museum's collection of
eightworkingpressesincludestheLouisRoyPress,whichdatingbackto1770andtheold-
est printing press in Canada. Docents supervise as visitors create documents using vintage
linotype technology and a hand-operated wooden heritage press. The printery is a hidden
gem, and will take about an hour to explore.
Laura Secord Homestead
The
Laura Secord Homestead
(29 Queenston St., 905/262-4851,
www.niagaraparksheritage.com
,
10am-5pm daily May-Aug., 10am-4pm Wed.-Fri.,
10am-5pm Sat.-Sun. Sept.-mid-Oct. $9.50 adults, $6.25 children 6-12). is the home of
Canada's most famous heroine. Restored to its original condition, the homestead affords a
glimpse into the life of settlers who lived in this area in the early 1800s.
Laura Secord is remembered for her heroism during the War of 1812. Upon overhearing
a remark from American soldiers about an impending attack against British troops, she set
out on a 20-mile trip to relay the information to the British Military Command. Visitors are
led through the homestead by a costumed guide who relates the compelling story of settlers
who came to southern Ontario. The homestead itself becomes a character in the narrative,
as your guide uses furniture, kitchenware, and other artifacts to explain the experience of
19th-century settlers.
Historyfanswilllikethisattraction;fansofCanadianhistorywillloveit.Planonspend-
ing 30-60 minutes here.
