Victoria Memorial Square Travel Guide

Victoria Memorial Square, located at 10 Niagara St, is a unique blend of park and historical site in Toronto. Established in 1793, it was the first cemetery used by European settlers in the area. Originally known as St. John's Square, it was created by Lieutenant Governor John Graves Simcoe shortly after the founding of York. His infant daughter, Katherine, was the first to be buried here.Serving as the military cemetery for Toronto until 1863, it holds the remains of an estimated 400 soldiers, their families, and some civilians. Over time, neglect and vandalism led to the loss of many gravestones, with only 17 surviving today. In the late 19th century, it was transformed into a public park. In 1907, a monument sculpted by Walter Seymour Allward commemorating those who served and died in the War of 1812 was unveiled.The park has undergone revitalization efforts to preserve its history, including new footpaths, lighting, and interpretive panels. Today, Victoria Memorial Square provides a tranquil green space for relaxation and reflection, while also serving as a reminder of Toronto's early history. Visitors are asked to remember and respect that the park is a historic site and burial ground.