Book a school trip by submitting an inquiry by email or calling the museum directly at 416-392-7742.

 

Fort York National Historic Site, located at 250 Fort York Blvd. (Bathurst/Lake Shore), is a place where past and present meet to spark discussions about shared futures. Fort York was first built in 1793—the beginnings of the settler development that became the City of Toronto. It is the site of the infamous Battle of York during the War of 1812. The Fort served as the city’s primary harbour defence between the 1790s and the 1880s and was the home of a military garrison until the 1930s. Today, its walls enclose Canada’s largest collection of original War of 1812 buildings. Every year, thousands of people visit the site to delve into stories of Toronto’s past, present and future and enjoy a wide array of public programs.

Explore the school trips below.

Why is the War of 1812 still important today? What power dynamics were at play? During this full day experience, students examine the relationships between the British military, Indigenous allies and Upper Canadian militiamen. Through activities and dialogue, students also investigate the interactions between the settlers of the Fort York and town of York settlers and Indigenous Peoples. They engage with questions such as “What are the causes and consequences of colonial settlement then and now?” and “What is the significance of and the ongoing responsibilities to treaties?”

This guided program involves indoor and outdoor elements.

Duration

4 hours

Group Size

15 to 105 students

Cost

$10.62 plus HST per student

One supervisor free per 15 students or part thereof. $10.62 plus HST per additional supervisor.

Accessibility

Please advise of accessibility needs when contacting museum.

Ontario Curriculum Connection

Grade 7 History: Canada, 1800–1850: Conflict and Challenges

How do war and conflict impact the lives of everyday people? During this half day experience, students join interpreters as they traverse Fort York National Historic Site, engaging in conversations about the impacts of war and conflict, past and present. Investigate the implications of the War of 1812 and the Battle of York had on local communities and the experiences of people from diverse backgrounds and this land’s Indigenous Peoples. This experience also highlights the ways in which other conflicts—world wars, health crises and social inequities—affected the people living in the Garrison and how conflict continues to shape surrounding communities today.

This guided program involves indoor and outdoor elements.

Duration

1.5 hours

Group Size

15 to 105 students

Cost

$4.87 plus HST per student

One supervisor free per 15 students or part thereof. $10.62 plus HST per additional supervisor.

Accessibility

Please advise of accessibility needs when contacting museum.

Ontario Curriculum Connection

Grade 7 History: Canada, 1800–1850: Conflict and Challenges