Battle of York April 27 1813

It is hard to imagine that Canada and the US being at war, but so it was 200 years ago. In those days, Canada was British and America was continuing to press the issue of its independence for a variety of reasons and perhaps grab a bit of Canada too. The Battle of York, which is now Toronto took place on April 27. A battle the Americans won.

Unfortunately tempers ran high after the British destroyed the magazine which resulted in American deaths after the battle was over.  The resulting rampage by the Americans culminating April 30 and resulting in the burning of a good portion town, which, by the way, consisted of about 700 people.  Hard to imagine.

In Toronto, the battle was marked on Saturday with parades and bands and by presence of Prince Philip.

Personally, I'm glad we kissed and made up.