The Niagara neighbourhood has a rich history that dates back to 1793, when it was part of a military garrison for the fledgling Town of York. Old Fort York, is still standing on Garrison Road, between Bathurst Street and Strachan Avenue. Street names in the Niagara neighbourhood are reminders of its military past. For example: Stanley Street is named after the former Stanley Barracks now located on the Exhibition grounds, Niagara Street is named after the former military capital of Upper Canada, and Tecumseh Street is named for the great warrior chief of the Shawnee, who fought for Canada, in the war of 1812. The second chapter in this neighbourhood’s history began in the 1850’s, when Niagara emerged as a prominent industrial centre. Niagara’s factories and mills created a demand for workers housing which led ultimately to the residential development of the Niagara neighbourhood in the mid to late 1800’s, including Niagara’s historic Second Empire row houses and cosy one storey Ontario Cottages. 

Fort York, located on Garrison Road was the scene of the bloody Battle of York during the War of 1812. Today this important Toronto landmark serves as a museum where knowledgeable historical interpreters, wearing period costumes, conduct tours and demonstrate historical activities. Fort York also contains a variety of exhibits and displays.

Niagara is a close knit neighbourhood with its own small community centre located on the Stanley Park grounds. This centre is used for local residents meetings, community based programming and social functions. Stanley Park is a favourite neighbourhood meeting place. It contains two baseball diamonds, two tennis courts, a soccer field, a small outdoor pool, a new enclosed dog park, and a children’s playground.