Race into History!
Published: August 2013
It's that time of year - race weekend. No matter where you are
there are road races for runners to compete in. Whether you're up
for the 5k, 10k or full marathon of 42k you're bound to find one
near you. That said there's a lot to see along the routes other
than the athletes. Whether you're participating or cheering from
the sidelines make sure to take a look at the historic places along
the way. If you've ever run or watched a marathon you'll know that
some wander through the countryside while others go up and down
city streets, and there are plenty of historic sites in both
settings. These particular marathons include stunning views, water
features, bridges and lots of historic places!
If you happen to be running in the Niagara Falls International
Marathon you've chosen an extra special year. This year marks the
200th anniversary of the War of 1812 and three of the
sites you'll pass on your run are related to the conflict.
The first historic site you'll pass is the Danner-Sherk
House. It was the home of Ulrick Strickler and his family who
built the property in 1805. By 1812 war had broken out and
Strickler's crops were seized by troops in the area on numerous
occasions. Amazingly enough, his property was the only one in the
area not to be burned down by either American or British troops
during the war. Today the historic house is home to a bed &
breakfast - but this isn't the time to think about rest or food!
Keep running, the finish line and a few other historic places
await...
The next
site you'll come across is the
Battle of Chippawa National Historic Site. Although there are
no visible remains of the battle that took place here in 1814, a
monument has been erected to mark the site. You won't have time to
read it during the race but look to your left as you pass by for a
glimpse of it and the green space around it. The majority of the
marathon route showcases the natural beauty of the area with a
tree-lined parkway and the Niagara River to your right. In
the middle of the river you should be able to catch a glimpse of
Navy Island National Historic Site (left). Situated in the
Niagara River between Ontario and Grand Island, New York, the cairn
marks the location of the first British shipyard that served the
Upper Great Lakes. The site was also home to William Lyon
Mackenzie's exiled government during the 1837 Rebellions. Today the
only way to access the island is by boat but it's a still a popular
spot for campers, bird watchers and fishermen.
We know you're almost at the finish line now but before crossing
Chippawa Creek take a look down Bridgewater Street to the Laura
Secord House. Laura Secord, know recognized as a Canadian
heroine because of her daring actions during the War of 1812,
didn't live here during the war but the home is among many in the
area recognized for their links to the conflict. This particular
house was actually built long after the War of 1812 in the midst of
another conflict - the Rebellions of 1837. Remember that Laura
Secord walked 19 miles through the wilderness to warn the British
of a surprise U.S. attack - that's over two thirds of the distance
you've covered today so stay strong and finish the race on a high
note!
To the east, the city of Saint John, New Brunswick hosts the
"Marathon by the Sea" offering runners magnificent views of the
coast as the route winds through the city's parks and historic
districts. As you jog along Crown Street take a peek down Orange
Street and you'll see many historic buildings that are a part of
the
Orange Street Heritage Conservation Area. One of these
buildings is
Paul Residence, a three storey Italianate residence that
survived the devastating fire of 1877 during which much of the city
was destroyed. There are numerous
designated buildings along the street - if you have time you
can check them out after the race.
The historic heart of Saint John, known as Trinity Royal, is
featured in the next leg Furlong's
Liquor Store (right) at the corner of Water and Princess
streets. Although built in the same Italianate style as Paul
Residence, this building was built after the fire of 1877
and symbolizes the city's rebuilding efforts. Built of brick
rather than wood, it demonstrates the will of merchants and
citizens to protect their buildings from future fires. Although it
was a popular stop for beverages in the past you're going to have
to keep going today - but don't worry, there's a water stop coming
up!
As you jog down Main Street you'll pass
Fort Howe National Historic Site (below). Even though you won't
get to see the beautiful view from the lookout you'll know where it
is for next time you're in the area. The fort, of which there
are no extant remains, was built in the late 18th
century to help protect settlers from attack. Today you'll probably
be safe to run by without a second thought - but make sure to save
some energy for the return loop.
Before you get to the finish line
you'll run through yet another historic area of the city, this time
on Douglas Avenue. There are multiple designated properties but
make sure to take note of the
W. A. Chesley Residence as you go by. Built in the Second
Empire architectural style, the building has been home to
successive generations of Chesleys from 1875 - 1922. The Chesleys
were involved in the ship building industry, local politics and
other business ventures in Saint John and abroad. Best of luck
finishing up the race - we'll be waiting for you at the finish line
where you might want to take a dip in Lilly Lake!
No matter where you're racing this season there are bound to be
historic sites along your journey. Although race day isn't the day
for a visit, take note of their location and come back soon.
Historic places might not even look 'historic' - they might just be
a part of the streetscape. Remember that while some are open to the
public and operate as historic sites, museums etc., others are
operational institutions like schools or banks, or even private
family homes. History is well and alive across Canada - but we'll
leave the marathon running up to you!