↗ View this article in the original PDF newsletter
Compiled by Melanie Garrison JANUARY Recreation in Miniature of the Battle of Crysler’s Farm Saturday, Jan. 6, 2007, 11:00 a.m. A sculpted terrain of the actual battlefield is the backdrop and each military unit that participated will be represented. The rules for the wargame are simple and will be taught. Those with an interest in military history will see first hand the interplay of early 19th Century military tactics and weaponry. New participants welcome. Those interested contact Michael Manning at (905) 826-1200 or at michael.manning@rogers.com Casual observers welcome. Regular admission rates apply.
2006 Upcoming Events Historic Fort York Compiled by Melanie Garrison JANUARY Recreation in Miniature of the Battle of Crysler’s Farm Saturday, Jan. 6, 2007, 11:00 a.m. A sculpted terrain of the actual battlefield is the backdrop and each military unit that participated will be represented. The rules for the wargame are simple and will be taught. Those with an interest in military history will see first hand the interplay of early 19th Century military tactics and weaponry. New participants welcome. Those interested contact Michael Manning at (905) 826-1200 or at michael.manning@rogers.com Casual observers welcome. Regular admission rates apply.
FEBRUARY The annual Volunteer Appreciation Brunch is in the planning stages for February. Details will be released as they become available.
FEBRUARY The annual Volunteer Appreciation Brunch is in the planning stages for February. Details will be released as they become available.
MARCH An Evening of the Music of Thomas Arne (1710-78): Celebrated English Composer Part of Fort York’s Authentic Experience Series Saturday, March 3rd, 2007, 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. A recreation of a late 18th century/early 19th century salon recital featuring authentic vocals by soprano Antonella Cavallaro accompanied by a keyboardist on a reconstructed harpsichord. The event will also feature historical interpretation and background interspersed throughout. This event will be a ticketed, pre-sold event with price likely being $20. The event will feature a cash bar, and select hors d’oeuvres (mix of historical and modern).
MARCH An Evening of the Music of Thomas Arne (1710-78): Celebrated English Composer Part of Fort York’s Authentic Experience Series Saturday, March 3rd, 2007, 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. A recreation of a late 18th century/early 19th century salon recital featuring authentic vocals by soprano Antonella Cavallaro accompanied by a keyboardist on a reconstructed harpsichord. The event will also feature historical interpretation and background interspersed throughout. This event will be a ticketed, pre-sold event with price likely being $20. The event will feature a cash bar, and select hors d’oeuvres (mix of historical and modern). March Break Mon, Mar. 12 to Fri. Mar. 16, 2007, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Family drop-in style event with activities including Soldiers’ Drill, Officers’ Sword Drill, Cooking in the Officers’ Kitchen, Discovery Gallery, Dress Up, and Guided Tours. For reservations and ticket prices call 416-392-6907 after January 15 Fabled City – Annual Festival of Storytelling organized by the Toronto School of Storytelling Sunday, Mar. 25, 2007, 1:30 to 3:00 p.m. The story to be told at Fort York by a professional storyteller is entitled: James Guidney’s Composition. James Guidney was an English drum major in the Napoleonic wars. He spent the latter days of his life drumming up business in the streets of Birmingham for what he called his “composition”, a cure for coughs and colds. In recent months, Fort York has been fortunate to have acquired James Guidney’s drum for its collection. We are pleased to present his story – another “composition”. Price: $12 adults; $10 Seniors; $8 Children – Your ticket includes period refreshments. Pre-registration is required. 416-392-6907 Ext.100
An interesting item has just been added to Fort York’s collections, thanks to the sharp eye of David Juliusson, Program Officer at Fort York, who spotted for sale on eBay a copy of a Boston newspaper, The Weekly Messenger, for 14 May 1813. It carried a front-page report on the battle at York, U.C., now Toronto, on 27 April and the death of US Brigadier-General Zebulon Pike. Chief Curator Dr. Carl Benn was consulted and gave his blessing, an anonymous donor came forward to back the bidding to an agreed maximum and the chase was on! Bidding closed on December 11 and David was the successful purchaser at US$44.00, which Carl describes as “a surprisingly low price.” It is expected the newspaper will be used in an exhibit on the Battle of York proposed for the Blue Barracks.
APRIL Launching Event for the Friends of Fort York Foundation Date To Be Announced Mayor Miller’s Community Clean-up Day – Annual Event Date To Be Announced (probably Sat. Apr. 21) Please join the Friends of Fort York and Garrison Common for our Fort York clean-up. (meet at 10:00 a.m. at the Blue Barracks) We will be picking up litter starting at 10:00 a.m. and working until approximately 1:00 p.m. Coffee will be ready at 10:00 a.m. in the Blue Barracks. Please bring your own gloves and wear appropriate clothing for the day such as gloves, boots and long-sleeve shirts. Items such as bug repellant, bottled water, sunscreen and a pail for sharp objects can be useful (Garbage bags will be provided). Battle School Saturday, Apr. 28 – Sunday, Apr. 29, 2007 Fort York will play host to a number of re-enactors who will be honing their weapons skills in preparation for the summer military re-enactment season. These weekend warriors entertain and edify crowds all over Canada and the U.S. by voluntarily participating in historically significant events that recall Canada’s exciting history. Fort York’s annual Battle School is an opportunity for the re-enactment and Museum community to share information and safety tips for the benefit of all. Regular admission rates apply. Battle of York Commemoration Sunday April 29, 2007, 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Tours, kids’ drill, military music. Regular admission rates apply.
