Battlefield Park National Historic Site Master Plan
City of Hamilton Public Works Department Environment and Sustainable Infrastructure Division Landscape Architectural Services Section 320 – 77 James Street North, Hamilton, ON L8R 2K3
Consultant Team Wendy Shearer Landscape Architect a division of MHBC AMEC Dougan and Associates Ecological Consulting and Design McCallum Sather Architects January 2011
APPROVAL/CONFORMITY STATEMENT FOR THE BATTLEFIELD PARK NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE MASTER PLAN Battlefield Park National Historic Site contains a rich diversity of natural and cultural landscape features to be conserved, enhanced, and interpreted. The site of a pivotal battle in 1813, it is a cultural landscape valued by the community because of its significant history, natural resources, and built heritage. The Master Plan provides future direction for this 13 hectare (32 acre) site to ensure its future protection and management. I am pleased to approve the Battlefield Park National Historic Site Master Plan as the official policy for the management and development of this park. The plan reflects the City of Hamilton’s intent to protect the natural environment of the Niagara Escarpment and the natural and cultural features of the Battlefield Park National Historic Site and to maintain and develop high quality opportunities for natural and cultural interpretation, recreation, discovery and enjoyment of the Niagara Escarpment by Ontario residents and visitors. ______ Chris Murray Date City Manager City of Hamilton ______ I am pleased to deem this Park Management Plan in conformity with the general intent and purpose of the Niagara Escarpment Plan pursuant to S.13 (1) of the Niagara Escarpment Planning and Development Act. ______ Mark Frawley Date Director Niagara Escarpment Commission ______ Ray Pichette Date Director Natural Heritage, Lands & Protected Spaces Branch Ministry of Natural Resources
Table of Contents
Executive Summary i-ii
1.0 Introduction 1 1.1 Update (January 2011) 2 1.2 Cultural Heritage Resources and Significance 2 1.3 Natural Features Overview 7 1.4 The Dunington-Grubb Landscape Plan (East Side) 8 1.5 Key Recommendations of the Master Plan (West Side) 10 2.0 Background and Purpose of the Master Plan 14 2.1 Site Evolution and Change 15 2.2 The 1993 Taylor Hazell Battlefield Park Master Plan Study 18 2.3 New Interpretive Centre Concept by McCallum 20 Sather Architects Inc. 2008-2009 2.4 Zoning and Parking Requirements 30 2.5 The Niagara Escarpment Parks and Open Space 31 System (NEPOSS) and Park Classification 2.5.1 Natural Zone 35 Purpose and Management Considerations 2.5.2 Access Zone 37 Purpose and Management Considerations 2.5.3 Historical Zone 38 Purpose and Management Considerations 2.5.4 Development Zone 40 Purpose and Management Considerations 2.6 Layers of Significance 43 3.0 History of War of 1812 and Battlefield Park National Historic Site 45 4.0 Site Chronology and Uses 46 5.0 Existing Conditions 52 5.1 Entrance and West Side 53 5.2 East Side 55 6.0 Battlefield Creek Site Existing Conditions and 57 Recommendations (Prepared by AMEC)
7.0 Proposed Master Plan Recommendation Relative to 60 Natural Resources (Prepared by Dougan and Associates Ecological Consulting and Design) 7.1 Existing Conditions: Natural Resources - Vegetation and 61 Wildlife 7.2 Methods 62 Background Information and Review 7.3 Field Inventory 63 7.3.1 Vegetation Resources 63 7.3.2 Wildlife Resources 63 7.4 Findings 64 7.4.1 Significant Portions of the Habitat of Endangered and Threatened Species 64 7.4.2 Significant Woodlands 64 7.4.3 Significant Valleylands 64 7.4.4 Environmentally Significant Areas 65 7.5 Field Inventories 66 7.5.1 Impacts of Human Activities 66 7.5.2 Significant Portions of the Habitat of 67 Endangered and Threatened Species 7.5.3 Significant Wildlife Habitat 67 7.6 Vegetation Inventory Findings 69 7.6.1 Wildlife Inventory Findings 70 7.7 Summary of Findings, Constraints, and 79 Opportunities 8.0 The Dunington-Grubb Landscape Plan 81 8.1 Historic Photos 90 9.0 Public and Agency Consultation 101 10.0 Cultural Heritage Landscape Issues and Recommendations 104 10.1 Conservation and Appropriate Uses 104 10.2 Parking 105 10.3 Maintenance Yard 105 10.4 King Street West Frontage 105 11.0 Summary of Master Plan Recommendations 106 12.0 Conclusions: War of 1812 Commemoration 107
13.0 List of Master Plan Drawings 108 Site Development Master Plan - Figure 67 109 West Side Site Development Plan - Figure 68 110 East Side Site Development Plan - Figure 69 111 14.0 References 112 14.1 Wendy Shearer Landscape Architect 112 a division of MHBC Planning 14.2 Dougan and Associates Ecological 113 Consulting and Design 14.3 List of Figures 117
Appendix A
The Battle of Stoney Creek National Historic Site of Canada Commemorative Integrity Statement
Appendix B
City of Hamilton Planning and Development Department, Long Range Planning and Design Division, Community Planning and Design Section June 2004
Hamilton’s Heritage Volume 5: Reasons for Designation Under Part IV of the Ontario Heritage Act
Battlefield Cemetery “Smith’s Knoll” 70 King St W Battlefield House, Park and Monument 77 King St W Nash-Jackson House “Grandview” 77 King St W
Executive Summary
This Battlefield Park National Historic Site Master Plan update balances the cultural heritage and natural heritage resources with competing interests on the site through the preparation of an overall improvement plan. The goal of this Master Plan is to conserve, interpret and present the site to a wide range of users.
Key recommendations of this Master Plan are:
to protect, conserve, and interpret the evolution of the site and the Battle of Stoney Creek, June 5-6 1813, a pivotal battle in the War of 1812-1814 marking the furthest advance of the American troops in the Province of Upper Canada;
to protect, conserve, and interpret the commemorative work (the Monument and Gage House) by the Women’s Wentworth Historical Society under the guidance of Sara Calder, the great granddaughter of James and Mary Gage;
to conserve and interpret the significant cultural heritage resources on the site including the restoration of the 1920’s Dunington-Grubb landscape design on the east side of the Park;
to add a new interpretive building on the west side of the Park to be the centre of public education regarding the War of 1812-14;
to enhance public programming generally in the Park including the annual Re-enactment of the Battle of Stoney Creek;
to plan in the long-term renewed health and ecological diversity of the forest and manage the informal trail system which is impacting on it;
to identify the Park as part of the Niagara Escarpment Park and Open Space System by including the Niagara Escarpment Program logo on park signs and printed material;
to undertake an archaeological site management plan to ensure that the management of all remaining areas of archaeological potential are actively integrated into all Park activities entailing future soil disruption;
i to increase barrier-free access throughout the property and investigate alternatives for innovative solutions where physical access is limited;
to mitigate the impact of noise and visibility from Centennial Parkway South with a proposed berm and new planting on the western side of the park;
to increase the site’s security for visitors and staff through increased lighting and vehicular control measures and in consideration of CPTED principles (Crime Prevention through Environmental Design); and
to better define the eastern edge of the Park by adding screening along the residential back yards.
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1.0 Introduction
This comprehensive Battlefield Park Master Plan is aimed at conserving and promoting the site for future generations. The Master Plan updates the recommendation of the 1993 Council approved Battlefield Park Master Plan Study by Taylor Hazell Architects Ltd. and provides detailed planning for new facilities and a phased implementation strategy with associated costs. While past plans and developments addressed the restoration of portions of the site to specific eras, this Master Plan focuses on the conservation, interpretation, and presentation of all the elements of Battlefield Park and its significant historic layers with a focus on the interpretative and educational value of the site.
The City of Hamilton has commissioned a multi-disciplinary team of Wendy Shearer Landscape Architect a division of MHBC Planning, AMEC (formerly Philips Engineering), Dougan and Associates Ecological Consulting and Design, and McCallum Sather Architects (MSA) for the Battlefield Park site. The consultant team worked under the direction of The City of Hamilton in association with members of the Culture Division and the Landscape Architectural Services Section. Each sub-consultant contributed to their relevant area of expertise: MSA developed the design of new interpretation centre, AMEC reviewed the Battlefield Creek water course, and Dougan and Associates Ecological Consulting and Design inventoried the natural resources onsite. Wendy Shearer Landscape Architect a division of MHBC Planning developed the overall plan for the conservation of the cultural landscape of Battlefield Park.
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1.1 Update (January 2011)
During the Master Plan planning process, the following changes were made to the context and operation of the Park:
the access trail to the Bruce Trail was removed from the Park in the fall of 2009 because of restrictions along the route by private property owners. Signs and trail flashes have been removed by the Bruce Trail Association; the Stoney Creek Gateway feature proposed for the corner of Centennial Parkway South and King Street West, will be constructed further east closer to the commercial core; The Park’s administration building at 99 and private residence at 95 King Street West were demolished, opening up the view into the Park; The Battlefield Park Master Plan Advisory Committee was formed at the Ward Councilor’s recommendation, to advise on implementation of the Master Plan; and Heritage permits and approvals were received from the City of Hamilton and the Ontario Heritage Trust to undertake the restoration of the Dunington-Grubb landscape on the east side of the Park.
Implementation of other site works may be undertaken over the next few years only after further detailed planning and necessary studies have been completed.
1.2 Cultural Heritage Resources and Significance
Battlefield Park is a National Historic Site and its importance to the nation will be commemorated in the year 2013, the bicentennial of the pivotal event which took place here on June 5 and 6 of 1813 when the advancement of the American troops into Upper Canada was halted. The Battle of Stoney Creek occurred within the setting of the Gage Farm which today forms
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the important foundation for the archaeological and historical values, particularly in the east side of the Park. See Figure 1.
Another layer of historic significance is the Monument which was built in 1913 in commemoration of the Battle with funds raised by the Women’s Wentworth Historical Society under the guidance of Sara Calder, the great granddaughter of James and Mary Gage.
The Monument has architectural value in its detailing, material, design, and its association with Queen Mary and the trans- Atlantic telegraphic communication which highlighted its opening on June 6, 1913. See Figure 2 and 3.
This commemorative activity was an early recognition of the importance of the contribution that Canada made to the continuation of the Empire.
Pioneering landscape architects Howard and Lorrie Dunington- Grubb, founding members of the Canadian Society of Landscape Architects and Sheridan Nurseries, developed the subsequent commemorative landscape in the 1920’s linking the Monument with the Gage House in a formal landscape design.
The cultural heritage landscape resources on the east side of the site are the Dunington-Grubb commemorative landscape and its associated circulation, topography, and landscape features including Monument Hill and the Arrival Courtyard with flagstone paving and evergreen trees. As well, the terraces around the house remain from the Dunington-Grubb formal gardens.
Additional cultural heritage resources on this site consist of both archaeological and built heritage features primarily in the original Gage House, the barn which has been determined to be remnant from the Gage Farm period, and the Nash Jackson House called “Grandview” which was relocated here in 1999.
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Figure 1 Figure 2
From left to right:
Figure 1 Gage House and Monument under construction, Smith’s Knoll and Stoney Creek Village – Postmarked August 30, 1912.
Figure 2 “Stoney Creek Monument Unveiled on June 6, 1913 the 100th Anniversary of the Battle”.
Figure 3 “Unveiling of Stoney Creek Monument by Queen Mary June 6, 1913”.
Source: Janet Forjan-Freeman Hamilton Postcard Website www.hamiltonpostcards.com
Figure 3
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Figure 4
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Figure 5
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1.3 Natural Features Overview
Battlefield Park is part of the Niagara Escarpment Parks Open Space System (NEPOSS). The Escarpment is designated as a United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) World Biosphere Reserve. Bisected by Battlefield Creek, Battlefield Park is approximately 12.9 hectares (32 acres) in size and 4.8 hectares (11.9 acres) are developed as maintained parkland. The remaining acres are meadow lands which are in the process of early succession naturalization, and a dense wooded area consisting of heavy understorey and shade with a mix of 109 species of vascular plants. These have been investigated and documented by the consultant team and recommendations for their continuation have been developed. See Section 7.0.
Battlefield Creek flows through the site in a meandering channel prone to periodic heavy flows resulting in varying degrees of bank erosion. Site issues include the existing creek stability, erosion control, and flooding of the Park. The requirements for a potential bridge crossing are reviewed in Section 6.0.
Figure 6 Battlefield – Stoney Creek. Postmarked September 17, 1930. View of Gage House and Monument. Note: Implementation of Dunington Grubb landscape at Monument Hill. Source: Janet Forjan-Freeman Hamilton Postcard Website www.hamiltonpostcards.com
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In 1960, the Historic Sites 1.4 The Dunington-Grubb Landscape Plan (East Side) and Monuments Board of Canada (HSMBC) noted that the importance of The Women’s Wentworth Society commissioned the Toronto the Battlefield site lay in based firm H.B. & L.A. Dunington-Grubb, Landscape Architects in “the undoubted national historic importance of the the 1920’s to design a formal landscape plan for the grounds. military engagement that took place there and in the urgent need to At the turn of the 20th century, civic design rested within the hands develop the area of only a few individuals. Most were either American-trained imaginatively in view of imminent encroachment.” such as Frederick Todd or British-trained such as the Dunington- Grubb’s. The Dunington-Grubbs’ mentor was renowned British - HSMBC minutes, June 1960 town planner and landscape architect Thomas Mawson who was responsible for the design of Canadian park systems in Saskatchewan, Victoria, and Vancouver. Howard Dunington- Grubb worked closely with Thomas Mawson before coming to Canada in 1911. The Dunington-Grubb firm developed a unique urban design style previously unknown in Canada which created elegant and formal civic spaces. The purpose of this form of design was to create an informed citizenry. The design of most urban open spaces that have been created since that time in cities across Canada can be traced to these early practitioners of landscape architecture and their notions of “City Beautiful”. The work of the Dunington-Grubb firm in Ontario ably illustrates this philosophy and the work in Battlefield Park specifically celebrates a formal layout within an attractive natural setting. The Dunington-Grubb plan created an impressive formal stairway and ramps on Monument Hill linking it to a formal arrival courtyard. Due to a lack of funding, the plan was only partially implemented.
The restoration of the Dunington-Grubb landscape will be based on historical research from the archival collections at the University of Guelph and Gage House, an analysis of historic photographs, and an archaeological investigation to reveal the materials and layout details of the landscape works.
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Consultation with various governments, agencies and stakeholders has been undertaken to ensure that there is agreement on the plans. Key participants include the Ontario Heritage Trust, Parks Canada, the Niagara Escarpment Commission, the Ministry of Natural Resources, the Six Nations Mississaugas of the New Credit, the Battlefield Park Master Plan Advisory Committee, as well as various City of Hamilton departments. This undertaking was to ensure that the objectives of the improvements are understood and the detailed plans approved.
East Side
The east side of the Park has remnants of its important early 20th century commemorative era still intact. There is evidence of the Dunington-Grubb landscape on the slope of the Monument Hill, the arrival courtyard, and the terracing around the Gage House. The primary focus of proposed work on the east side to be undertaken in the year 2010-2011 consists of the restoration of the Dunington-Grubb commemorative landscape design.
As part of this implementation work, there will be the re- establishment of the formal gardens around Gage House, possibly the restoration of the verandah on the west end of the house, the removal of angled parking, and other site improvements to increase the interpretative value of the area. These features will be restored to their original configuration in order to renew this important heritage resource on site. As part of this work, only barrier free parking and drop off spaces will be provided. This allows for the entire area to become more pedestrian friendly, enhancing its interpretative value.
The perimeter which separates the Park from the adjacent backyards will be revegetated so that there is a proper backdrop to the historic landscape and views into backyards, which detract from the historic quality, will be screened.
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Due to the existing conditions of slopes that exceed current standards, access to the top of the Monument will not be made barrier free. As an alternative to providing barrier free access to the base of the Monument, the museum will commit to developing alternate interpretative strategies for providing information to visitors as to what can be seen from the upper levels and a description of the viewscape.
1.5 Key Recommendations of the Master Plan (West Side)
Proposed work on the west side of the Park primarily relies on the construction of the interpretative centre, the provision of a new maintenance building to accommodate park staff activities, new parking, and a trail layout with a new pedestrian bridge. The above works shall be undertaken in phases as capital budgets allow. The existing maintenance building has been determined to be a historic barn structure possibly from the Gage Farm era. This barn will be relocated and restored to serve museum purposes.
Other proposed recommended improvements on the west side include the construction of a berm along Centennial Parkway South. This berm will assist in noise mitigation and when planted, will provide a visual background to the historic site. As well, the berm will provide viewing opportunities for re-enactment activities which will continue to be accommodated south of the proposed parking lot.
The newly opened view from King Street West, which was created by the removal of the administration and residential buildings along this frontage, creates an opportunity for the installation of Public Art under the direction of the City of Hamilton’s Culture Division.
The schedule for work on the west side of the Park has not yet been determined, however, some of the proposed work such as
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the relocated works yard and the new maintenance building will proceed in the near future with other items.
At the present time, the Park is in transition from being a community recreation facility to a National Historic Site which has passive community uses.
The addition of a new interpretative centre was first recommended in the 1993 Battlefield Park Master Plan by Taylor Hazell Architects Ltd. and has been updated to address the upcoming Bicentennial of the Battle of Stoney Creek. The intention is that the new interpretative centre will be the focus of all the War of 1812 to 1814 artifacts and exhibits for the City of Hamilton. This will be a place where the story of the sunken ships, the Hamilton and Scourge National Historic Site will be told, as well as the history of the Battle of Stoney Creek and its relation to the British military camp on the grounds of Dundurn National Historic Site.
The opportunity also exists to add a new parking facility for cars and buses on the west side of the Park that would connect to a series of new accessible walkways. The proposed walkways would link the new interpretative centre with “Grandview” and Gage House, and a new pedestrian bridge would link both sides of Battlefield Creek, enhancing visitor orientation and wayfinding.
The addition of a new interpretive centre and associated parking is illustrated on the Site Development Master Plan presented on May 5, 2009 at a public information centre held at “Grandview”. See Figure 7, Page 13.
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Other key recommendations for the west side include:
the relocation and restoration of the barn to convert it to museum programming space as an orientation area; the removal of the concession/washroom building; the salvage and relocation of the picnic shelter section; the construction of a new parks maintenance building and screened storage yard; the addition of new trails to replace the existing informal routes with barrier free alignment and materials ensuring protection of habitat and significant vegetation; and the provision of a trail link to the Bruce Trail, which is outside of the Park further south, would be consistent with Niagara Escarpment Commission Policies and desirable, subject to finding a feasible means of crossing the rail line and private property.
It is recognized that Battlefield Park National Historic Site is a designated property under Part IV of the Ontario Heritage Act. Notwithstanding the intent of this Master Plan it is recognized that any alterations to the property will require the submission and approval of heritage permit applications prior to any alterations, new construction, building demolition or relocation, landscape modification and other soil disturbance including archaeology being carried out. It is also recognized that the provisions of Part IV of the Act apply to this property with respect to archaeology. Soil disturbance in areas identified as having archaeological potential or resources must be carried out under the direction or observation of a licensed archaeologist. The Archaeological Site Management Plan for Battlefield Park National Historic Site will provide further guidance on the ongoing management of archaeology within the NHS.
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Figure 7 Site Development Master Plan 2.0 Background and Purpose of the Master Plan
Battlefield Park is set in a rich landscape at the foot of the Niagara Escarpment and is bisected by Battlefield Creek. The site is bordered by King Street West on the north, Centennial Parkway South to the west, a privately held land locked parcel to the south between the Park and the railway lands, and the rear yards of residences facing Battlefield Drive to the east.
Within the Park, there are distinctly different landscape character areas and public uses. The north and west sections contain the majority of the historic resources and are maintained as manicured parkland. The south and east sections are forested and naturalized. Battlefield Creek flows through the centre of the Park from south to north.
The topography is varied, rising from King Street West to the high point where the Monument is located. A wooded ravine behind the Monument prevents easy access to the southeast section of the site.
The site is approximately 13.1 hectares (32.4 acres) in size and has many layers of historical and community uses. With the upcoming bicentennial commemoration of the War of 1812 – 14, it is timely to consider the balance of these uses and values in a comprehensive plan for the future.
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2.1 Site Evolution and Change
Battlefield Park was the site of the Battle of Stoney Creek on June 5-6, 1813. It was an integral part of the defense of British North America and the battle was a significant event in the history of the War of 1812 and the history of this country. The importance of this event was recognized with a national heritage site designation in 1960. In 2013, the 200th anniversary of this event will be celebrated at Battlefield Park.
Figure 8 American Headquarters June 5, 1813. The Battlefield, Stoney Creek (Near Hamilton, Canada) Note: Monument not yet constructed. Postmarked March 4, 1906.
In 1993, the Battlefield Park Master Plan Study by Taylor Hazell Architects Ltd. addressed both the site’s built heritage and landscape features. The report included an assessment of the site’s use, the museum collection, and programming. The study proposed the restoration of Battlefield House (Gage House) and surrounding landscape and a new site design for the west side of the Park.
In August 1998, Philip Goldsmith and Company Ltd. Architects produced The Jackson House Feasibility Study. The purpose of this report was to assess the viability of relocating the Jackson House
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Figure 9 Photo illustrating the existing orchards in the 1950’s on lands west of Battlefield Creek now a part of the Park.
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(now known as “Grandview”) to Battlefield Park. Many of the recommendations of this report are currently in progress.
“Directives for preservation and enhancement of the landscape and built forms will allow prehistory to the present to be represented. Archaeology is to play an important role, particularly in interpreting the pioneer occupation of the site from the 1790s to the early 1800s.
It is hoped that by developing the existing site there will be an increase in tourism, community and educational use, and that the site will link into other regional historical sites. The existing natural environment is to be stabilized and defined. The somewhat intangible ‘sacred’ nature of this commemorative site is to be delicately preserved.” The Jackson House Feasibility Study, p.23
In Tom Murison’s Battlefield Park, Stoney Creek – A Reconstruction c.1830 recommendations for the historic site were reviewed. His analysis of the barn, currently used as a parks maintenance building, has been an exciting discovery of its age and significance. This new information has been integrated in the recommendations for the barn to be relocated, restored, and converted to museum uses. Its current location is not original.
In addition to the City of Hamilton’s heritage designation, the Ontario Heritage Trust (OHT) holds a conservation easement on Battlefield Park and all proposed works must be reviewed by the City of Hamilton Municipal Heritage Committee (HMHC) and the Ontario Heritage Trust (OHT). Any proposed works resulting in soil disturbance will be subject to the Battlefield Park Archaeological Site Management Plan, and sign off of the Provincial interest by the Ministry of Tourism and Culture.
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2.2 The 1993 Taylor Hazell Battlefield Park Master Plan Study
Since the first Master Plan was completed over 15 years ago, there have been a significant number of enhancements and changes made to the site and the surrounding context. In many ways, however, individual works have been undertaken in isolation to solve specific needs. This 2010 Master Plan update takes into account the new information now available.
It is important to note the following changes that have occurred since the first development of the Master Plan:
The site has been recognized as having significance to all Canadians. The Commemorative Integrity Statement for the site was completed in 2002. This is a Parks Canada documentation and evaluation process which assists in interpretation and conservation planning. The restoration of the Battlefield Monument has been completed. Additional archaeological investigations have been completed in various parts of the site, increasing our understanding of its history. The parking lot has been relocated from where the pavilion now stands to its current location and the bandshell on the west side of the site has been removed. The barn has been assessed and it has been discovered that it may be a significant historic artifact from the Gage Farm era. The Nash Jackson House, “Grandview”, has been relocated to the site and the final renovation work completed. Its landscape setting has been established. A new washroom/concession and picnic shelter/pavilion has been constructed on the site for public use. The road entrance to the site from King Street West has been relocated to the west side of Battlefield Creek following the
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acquisition and demolition of a residential property on King Street West. The remaining 3 residences along King Street West, no. 79 81, and 95 and the corner Administration building no. 99, have been demolished (as of May 2010) creating an open view into the Park. The former municipality of Stoney Creek has been amalgamated into the new City of Hamilton. This has added Battlefield House Museum to the family of municipal museums operating in Hamilton. This in turn allows for potential museum support activities to be coordinated with other sites, possibly reducing duplication of space requirements on site. The Red Hill Valley Parkway has been opened, potentially impacting traffic patterns on Centennial Parkway South.
This report was a comprehensive look at the facilities, grounds, collections and programming of the Park for the City of Stoney Creek by Taylor Hazell Architects Ltd. As part of its recommendations, it concluded that a new interpretive centre was needed to provide the provincial Ministry criteria for space allocations for a new museum:
1993 Ministry Proposed Curatorial Function 38% 31% Display Function 35% 36% Display Preparation Function 6% 6% Education & Public Function 18% 23% Service Function 3% 4% 100% 100%
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The building proposed in 1993 generally met the criteria in a new building of 7,630 square feet. The total museum building area of 11,540 square feet was accommodated as follows:
Gage House: 2,470 sq. ft. 1920’s Caretaker’s Addition: 1,440 sq. ft. New building: 7,630 sq. ft. 11,540 sq. ft.
Subsequent to the completion of this report, several changes occurred in the Park which required changes to the recommended size of the interpretive centre:
removal of King Street West residences; arrival of “Grandview”; construction of the pavilion and the new parking lot; identification of the historical significance of the barn.
As a result, a new interpretive centre concept was developed as part of the current Master Plan project to house interpretation collections and program activities.
2.3 New Interpretive Centre Concept by McCallum Sather Architects Inc. 2008-2009
The consultant team has prepared a revised plan to accommodate the museum activities on site.
The recommended size of the centre is approximately 20,000 gross square feet. This increase in the size of the centre is based on the following factors.
The original square footage was expressed as net square footage which as a rule of thumb for specialized buildings such as this is a 1:25 to 1:35 ratio of net to gross.
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The gross figure typically takes into account:
wall thickness of interior and exterior walls non-programmed spaces circulation (corridors) janitorial spaces stairwells mechanical room electrical room IT rooms vestibules (air lock) lobby or foyer
Further requirements for many of the room sizes such as public washrooms and corridors have increased in recent years to accommodate barrier free accessibility concerns.
A subsequent feasibility report on “Grandview” by Philip Goldsmith & Co. Ltd. Architects in 1998, proposed museum programming and interpretive activities to be accommodated in the Nash Jackson House.
However, now that the renovations to “Grandview” have been completed, it has been determined that additional space is required to accommodate the commemoration of the War of 1812-14 and the City of Hamilton’s role. The current intent is to interpret the activities which occurred during the War relevant to the City of Hamilton. The opportunity is present to interpret the Scourge and Hamilton shipwrecks in an exhibit in the interpretive centre as well as the Battle of Stoney Creek. Further, the role of the commemorative Monument at the Centennial of the Battle is now a critical part of the interpretation and exhibit requirements. The Commemorative Integrity Statement recognizes both the War of 1812 – 14 and the commemorative activities a century later, as having historic values of national significance.
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The architects have explored a variety of options to provide museum activities in a new interpretive centre. The proposed floor plans are based on a comprehensive review of earlier proposals with an update to include new museum activities to interpret the many layers of the site; agriculture as a setting, the Battle of Stoney Creek, Sara Calder and the Women’s Wentworth Historical Society, the Monument construction, and the 1920’s Dunington-Grubb landscape works.
The resulting interpretive centre is 20,000 gross square feet. The following options were reviewed in October 2008 by the consultant team and City staff, and the preferred option was finalized in February 2009. See Figure 15.
Figure 10, SK1: a one storey building situated close to King Street West at a distance from the parking lot and blocking the view of Grandview from the street. Figure 11, SK2 shows a similar building layout but the building is situated further west along King Street West. This building also blocks views into the Park and to “Grandview”. Figure 12, SK3 and Figure 13, SK4 shows two different concepts of two storey buildings situated in a similar layout to Figures 10 and 11. Figure 14 SK5 shows the removal of the administration building, opening the view of “Grandview” from King Street West. The proposed building remains a distance from the Park’s parking facilities. Figure 15 illustrates a two storey building close to parking and situated behind “Grandview”.
Based on an analysis of the Options, the preferred building size and height (other aspects of this issue are discussed in greater detail beginning on page 101) is a one storey building placed on the site behind “Grandview” and in close proximity to the Parking lot. Figure 16 illustrates this.
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Figure 10 SK1 Interpretive Centre
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Figure 11 SK2 Interpretive Centre
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Figure 12 SK3 Interpretive Centre
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Figure 13 SK4 Interpretive Centre
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Figure 14 SK5 Interpretive Centre
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Figure 15 Option 1A (WEST) 2 Storey Building
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Figure 16 Option 1B (WEST) 1 Storey Building - Preferred Option
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2.4 Zoning and Parking Requirements
As part of the exploration for the design of the interpretative centre, the architect has also considered the parking requirements. Zoning By-Law 3692-92 is applicable as the site is designated as “Intensive Recreational” (Zone IR-1) and the consideration for parking sizes varies depending on the described use of the centre. If it were to be used for recreation, entertainment and amusement, sports, or education, a total of 232 spaces would be required. By designating the property for museum purposes, the parking requirements are significantly reduced to one parking space for every 25 square metres. This results in a total requirement for 123 parking spaces and one loading space. The existing parking lot is not paved and therefore designated parking spaces are not evident.
Uses on the site are limited to recreational and cultural uses, including a conservation area, a public park, archeological / historical activities, special events, visitor’s services including but not limited to gift shops, washrooms, restaurants and buildings accessory thereto.
The proposed alternatives have explored a variety of parking configurations and the preferred option provides 140 parking spaces in a designated parking lot, with space along the roadway for the parking of five school buses which will accommodate the programming that occurs when multiple classrooms attend for special events and educational activities.
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2.5 The Niagara Escarpment Parks and Open Space System (NEPOSS) and Park Classification
Battlefield Park National Historic Site is located within the Niagara Escarpment Parks and Open Space System (NEPOSS). NEPOSS is a linear system of over 130 parks and open spaces owned/managed by public bodies or conservation authorities. NEPOSS is based on public lands acquired to protect significant areas and features along the Niagara Escarpment.
The objectives of NEPOSS as per Section 3.1.1 of the Niagara Escarpment Plan (NEP) are:
To protect unique ecological and historical areas; To provide adequate opportunities for outdoor education and recreation; To provide adequate public access to the Niagara Escarpment; To complete a public system of major parks and open spaces through additional land acquisition and park and open space planning; To maintain and enhance the natural environment along the Niagara Escarpment; To support tourism by providing opportunities on public land for discovery and enjoyment by Ontario’s residents and visitors; To provide a common understanding and appreciation of the Niagara Escarpment; and To show leadership in supporting and promoting the principles of the Niagara Escarpment’s World Biosphere Reserve designation through sustainable park planning, ecological management, community involvement, environmental monitoring, research, and education.
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There are 6 park and open space classes within NEPOSS. They include; Nature Reserve, Natural Environment, Recreation, Historical, Escarpment Access, and Resource Management Areas.
Battlefield Park is a Historical Park which is intended to protect and interpret the distinctive resources representative of the Escarpment’s archaeological and historical heritage. The development of facilities on these lands will focus on the protection, enhancement, and interpretation of the cultural heritage resources of the site.
The Niagara Escarpment Plan (NEP) requires that zoning be applied in all parks within its jurisdiction. Zoning identifies and provides the recognition of park features and serves to delineate areas on the basis of their different management requirements. NEP designations have been used to guide the development of park zones. This Master Plan identifies the zones within the Park boundary on the following plan, Figure 17.
NEPOSS ZONES
Nature Reserve * Natural * Historical * Access * Development Resource Management Bruce Trail Corridor New
*Found in Battlefield Park
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Figure 17
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Based on the existing conditions and proposed enhancements, four zones have been identified within the Park: Natural, Access, Historical, and Development.
Natural Zones: include the natural heritage features located on site identified through an inventory where passive recreation with minimal development is permitted.
Access Zones: include driveways and staging areas, such as parking lots and trailheads, where minimal facilities support the use of relatively undeveloped natural and historical zones.
Historical Zones: include significant cultural heritage (archaeological, built heritage and cultural heritage landscape) resources which require management that will ensure the long term protection of the significant cultural heritage values, i.e. Battlefield House, “Grandview”, Monument Hill, and the commemorative landscape of the north-east side of the Park.
Development Zones: include the facilities and services to support the interpretive area and recreational activities, picnic areas, maintenance facilities zone, the maintenance building, and public art area.
For each of the four identified zones, the following policies have been developed that will guide decision making and future works within each of the zones.
The policies outline special considerations based on the nature of the resources, both natural and cultural. Their size, constraints, distinguishing features, and activities are also outlined in each zone.
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2.5.1 Natural Zone Purpose and Management Considerations
The Natural Zone is approximately 5.0 hectares (12.5 acres) in size and comprises a large portion of the Park primarily located in the southeast section. This area contains dramatic changes in grade from the ravine at the south side of Monument Hill and the slopes running along the rear of the residences along the east side of the property. The Natural Zone is bisected by Battlefield Creek and includes the majority of the undisturbed woodland. In addition to the natural resources described in Chapter 7.0 prepared by Dougan and Associates Ecological Consulting and Design, the Natural Zone contains a network of informal trails that have been created by neighbours and park users. These trails generally lead through the wooded area and connect across private property and rail lands located on the southern boundary of the Park.
The research undertaken by Dougan and Associates Ecological Consulting and Design has revealed that there have been significant amphibian populations identified in an area outside of the Park further to the south and east. However, no significant wildlife has been found within Battlefield Park itself. For a complete list of species found within this zone refer to Chapter 7.
If the Jefferson Salamander, a nationally and provincially threatened species that is regulated under the Endangered Species Act 2007 is identified on the site, this regulated habitat may more appropriately coincide with a “Nature Reserve” zone.
The policy for this natural area is that any works undertaken either in terms of construction of new trails for accessibility or any works planned to improve the stability of the banks at Battlefield Creek to prevent erosion, would be subject to detailed environmental studies prior to implementation.
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No works are to be contemplated within the zone unless these studies are first completed.
The re-enactment event which brings thousands of visitors to the Park takes place in the lands on the west side of the Natural Zone. During the re-enactment event fencing is installed to limit activities within the natural area. This practice is recommended to continue.
The Master Plan does not propose new access points from Monument Hill into this zone. It is intended that the removal of dumped garden debris on the east slope negatively impacting the ground cover will be removed as part of the construction of landscape improvements on the east side of the Park. The commemorative landscape and new native vegetation to stabilize the bank will be planted where there is the potential for erosion.
One of the long term recommendations for the northwest corner of the Natural Zone is to install a pedestrian bridge across the creek that would facilitate linking the new interpretative centre and program area with the commemorative landscape on the east side of the Park.
The construction of the bridge, its abutments, or access trails, would be subject to further study and detailed design prior to implementation. This ensures that the natural features and any mitigation necessary to limit its impact are considered in the design process.
These recommendations comply with the overall policies of the management of the Natural Zone. They lay out a strategy to base any future works on further detailed studies to manage their impact.
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2.5.2 Access Zone Purpose and Management Considerations
The Access Zone is approximately 0.7 hectares (1.7 acres) and comprises of a culturally modified zone with no natural resources. This zone contains the main driveway into the Park from King Street West located on the west side of Battlefield Creek. The main driveway enters into the Park and winds around the historic “Grandview” House, leading to the parking lot along Centennial Parkway South which contains approximately 100 parking spaces.
This is a critical zone of the Park since it allows the visitor to enter the site. Because of the limitations around the perimeter of the site, primarily the natural area on the southeast, the commemorative landscape on the northeast, Centennial Parkway South on the west, and private lands to the south, there are no opportunities for additional driveways into the site. The residential driveways that were located between the new Battlefield Park driveway and the intersection of Centennial Parkway South and King Street West have been abandoned. The residences have been removed and new driveways in this location are not recommended due to the close proximity of the intersection.
The retention and enhancement of the access and parking lot is therefore a critical part of the visitor amenities on the site. It provides for fire safety and access for deliveries, servicing, and visitors.
The Master Plan has identified parking needs associated with the interpretative centre and the other complementary activities that take place on site associated with museum visitation and site interpretation. The Access Zone may require minor expansion into the adjacent development zones as part of the detailed design for new centre construction in subsequent phases of work.
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It is not the intention to expand the parking beyond the recommendation of the Master Plan to accommodate the annual re-enactment event. A variety of other strategies are in place to allow parking to occur off site and still have the site available for reenactment activities.
These recommendations comply with the overall policies outlined to develop and maintain a functional access zone with a delivery entrance, roadway for vehicles, and parking area.
2.5.3 Historical Zone Purpose and Management Considerations
The total area for the Historical Zone is 5.9 hectares (14.6 acres) located in two sections; 2.8 hectares (7 acres) to the east and 3.1 hectares (7.6 acres) to the west. The Historical Zone contains cultural heritage resources; archaeology, built heritage and cultural heritage landscapes of local, provincial, and national significance. Policies for this zone focus on conservation of the cultural heritage resources, interpretation, and improved accessibility for visitors with a range of abilities.
The primary Historical Zone is on the east side of Battlefield Creek. It contains Gage House, the Monument, and the commemorative landscape created in the 1920’s by Dunington- Grubb to mark the significance of the Battle of 1813 which occurred on and around this site. The Historical Zone contains the front lawn which was part of the battlefield and it also provides a setting for the building, as well as the formal grounds which were created to mark the commemoration of this pivotal battle.
The Master Plan recommends enhancements in this zone to include the restoration of the Dunington-Grubb landscape. This involves the replanting of the perimeter of the site along King Street West, around the house, and additional screening of the residential properties that run along the east property line to
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create a historical context for the commemorative landscape features.
The Historical Zone also includes “Grandview” and its surrounding grounds on the west side of Battlefield Creek. This is a historic house with a period landscape setting that has been designed in an appropriate manner to create a complementary interpretative setting for the building. This zone is recommended to include the relocated barn which will be an important museum centre to accommodate outdoor programming and orientation for special visitor groups.
The activities that take place within this Historical Zone will focus on interpretation and education of the public and passive recreation. Pathways will lead visitors to the dramatic overlooks, the top of Monument Hill, and through the formal gardens of the arrival court as well as around Gage House.
Moving forward and recognizing the Historical Zone’s heritage significance, the Master Plan recommends that activities such as tobogganing be discouraged in this area.
A major portion of the Historical Zone is located on the west side of the Park. The Park’s western portion extends from the existing parking lot to the southern property line and is bounded by Battlefield Creek to the east and Centennial Parkway South to the west. This area primarily consists of a maintained lawn area used for passive recreation and re-enactment activities as well as less frequently mowed meadows which are now showing signs of some cultural thicket growth and naturalization of non-native and native shrubs and trees.
It is clear in the aerial photographs of the site that as recently as the 1950’s, the area to the west was still in cultivation as fruit orchards. This west side was not purchased for parkland until the early 1960’s. Remnant pear and apple trees are still found
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revealing this past production activity. This area will continue to be used for outdoor events supporting the interpretation and education resources of the Park and it is intended that ongoing maintenance of the Park through mowing continue and that accommodations be made for the re-enactment.
Further, it is recommended that a noise berm be constructed and planted along Centennial Parkway South to aid in sheltering the site from traffic noise.
The Master Plan shows an accessible walkway loop constructed through the Historical Zone. This walkway will be constructed of appropriate materials with which to accommodate wheelchair users and allow them to explore parts of the site that are not currently available. This path is in contrast to the informal trails that are not accessible because of their uneven surfaces and narrow widths. It is intended that the accessible trail be built entirely within the historical zone in order to reduce its impact on the wooded areas.
New trails through the wooded areas will require further detailed study.
2.5.4 Development Zone Purpose and Management Considerations
As shown on the NEPOSS Zoning Plan, the total Development Zone areas includes one along King Street West which is 0.6 hectares (1.5 acres) in size, the pavilion and the interpretative centre area 0.6 hectares (1.5 acres), and the maintenance yard 0.1 hectares (0.2 acres). The total area of this zone is 1.3 hectares (3.2 acres).
The Development Zone is an area where change will occur. One section of the Development Zone includes the former residential lots along King Street West between the access drive and
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Centennial Parkway South. This area has had residential buildings and now contains lawn and remnant residential trees. This is an area that the City intends to use for public art display, benefiting from the high visibility from King Street West. See Figure 18.
The second section of the Development Zone is an area south of “Grandview” that contains the current pavilion and its adjacent open space. This is the site where the proposed interpretative centre is to be situated in order to take advantage of the access to the parking lot and to “Grandview”. See Figure 19.
Figure 18 Development Area #1 Public Art Zone. The third section of the Development Zone is immediately south of the existing parking lot. This is the proposed area for the maintenance yard. The Master Plan process included an investigation to determine if there were other areas of the City to relocate maintenance activities. However, because of the size of Battlefield Park, its visibility, its high level of use, and maintenance requirements, this site was determined to be the best location for Park staff to be centered. See Figure 19.
The proposed new works yard is located at the south end of the existing parking lot and will be similar in size to the current location. The proposed location will be easily accessed by park maintenance vehicles from the parking lot. The Master Plan Figure 19 Development Area #2 Interpretive Centre location. recommends vegetative screening to block views of the area from
Development Area #3 Proposed within the Park as well as from Centennial Parkway South. Works Yard. The Niagara Escarpment has been designated an UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve. As such, the ongoing planning and management of Battlefield Park will encourage and facilitate activities which support that designation and its focus on the conservation of biodiversity. The three roles of the Biosphere Reserve are to encourage and facilitate ecosystem conservation, sustainable land and resource use, research monitoring,
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education, interpretation related to conservation and sustainability issues.
Many of the activities which occur and are planned to continue within Battlefield Park are compatible with and complementary to the conservation of existing ecosystems. The majority of visitor amenities and the interpretative and educational activities that occur in the cultural landscape are complementary to the natural resources found along the Battlefield Creek corridor and in the wooded area.
The current practices that are found within the Park are aimed at celebrating the diversity of the site which made it an appealing destination for First Nations and the settlers that followed in the area. The usage of the site has enhanced the natural resources with the construction of a national landmark and ongoing public visitation and museum programming that explains the unique geology, topography, and natural resources related to the activities that took place both before and after the significant 1813 Battle of Stoney Creek.
Works that are planned within the Master Plan will be undertaken over many years. Many of the works will be undertaken only after detailed studies and designs are completed and capital funds are committed by the City of Hamilton. The upcoming bicentennial of the 1813 Battle of Stoney Creek has enabled the City to plan for more immediate implementation of some of the aspects of the Master Plan which will enhance the commemoration of the Battle. These are primarily based on the east side of the site and relate specifically to the reconstruction of the 1920’s Dunington-Grubb landscape.
Battlefield Park is currently situated outside of the Niagara Escarpment Commission (NEC) Development Control Area, and therefore development is subject to the City of Hamilton Zoning
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By-law. It should be noted, however, that NEC Development Control in Stoney Creek and Hamilton had been established by regulation prior to the development of the original Niagara Escarpment Plan (NEP) in 1985. Although the Park was not included in Development Control at that time, it was included within the Niagara Escarpment Plan Area. For NEP lands designated “Escarpment Protection Area” and “Escarpment Natural Area”, which is the case for most of the site, the NEC has been working with municipalities to amend relevant regulations to add such lands to the NEC Development Control Area. Since this process has already been initiated in the City of Hamilton, it is expected that in the foreseeable future, the majority of Battlefield Park will be regulated by NEC Development Control.
2.6 Layers of Significance
There are many cultural heritage features and figures associated with the site that have the potential to broaden its appeal to new visitors by adding to its interpretation and educational value. The current strategy for a National Historic Site is to aim for a Memorable Visitor Experience (MVE), in addition to protecting and conserving its heritage resources.
The cultural heritage landscape evaluation methodology reflects the reality of this evolved landscape with many interrelated heritage features and attributes. Rather than selecting one period of significance for restoration purposes, it allows for many eras to be interpreted for the public to appreciate how subsequent owners have built on the works of earlier times.
Using a cultural heritage landscape approach to the Battlefield Park National Historic Site allows us to identify and commemorate the site’s many layers of history as new information and investigation adds to our understanding of the site. These layers include:
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The Native cultural horizon, based on archaeological evidence and oral tradition; The area’s natural history, including geology, vegetation and ecology of the Niagara Escarpment and Battlefield Creek; The site’s association with the Gage family and the United Empire Loyalist settlers in the late 18th-century; The events of the War of 1812; The early commemorative activities of the Women’s Wentworth Historical Society, founded in 1899 by Sara Calder, granddaughter of James and Mary Gage. This was one of Ontario’s earliest historical societies and a major accomplishment of a growing role for women in civic affairs (it is important to note that the earliest historical society in Canada, the York Pioneer and Historical Society, did not permit women to be members until 1918); The unveiling of the Battlefield Monument by Queen Mary via telegraph on June 6, 1913, using the latest technology to link Stoney Creek with Buckingham Palace just before the dark days of World War I; The site’s association with Howard and Lorrie Dunington-Grubb, pioneering landscape architects in Canada, founding members of the Canadian Society of Landscape Architects and Sheridan Nurseries, designers of Gage Park, the walled garden at Whitehern, and the sunken garden at McMaster University, all Hamilton sites. They also designed University Avenue, Toronto, Oakes Theatre, Niagara Falls and Parkwood Estate located in Oshawa, Ontario; The Niagara Parks Commission’s management and the recreational use of the site in the latter twentieth century; The designation as a National Historic Site in 1960 as part of the increased awareness of history that took place during the 1967 Centennial celebrations across Canada; Annual historical battle re-enactments; and The relocation and conservation of the Nash Jackson House now called “Grandview”.
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“The War of 1812 3.0 History of War of 1812 and Battlefield Park National was the genesis of the Historic Site Canadian nation. It is the reason why there is a Canada.” The War of 1812 was an exceptionally significant event in
- The Kitchener- Canadian history and ensured Canada’s independence from the Waterloo Record, United States. From 1812 to 1814, American troops invaded Editorial February 4, 2008 Upper Canada from three points, including the Niagara Peninsula, hoping to eventually gain control of the whole of North America. The Canadian militia, British troops, and Aboriginal allies fought back against the American invaders in many fierce battles; the Americans eventually retreated during the final July 1814 Battle of Lundy’s Lane (“The War of 1812,” Archives of Ontario).
The Battle of Stoney Creek was instrumental in the defeat of the invading troops. It took place in June 1813 after American troops occupied the lands near Battlefield House, then known as the Gage residence. British troops stationed at Burlington Heights were warned of the American invasion of Stoney Creek and subsequently carried out a surprise night attack on the American invaders. The Battle lasted forty minutes and resulted in the loss of around one hundred soldiers as well as the capture of two American generals and the retreat of the American troops first to Forty Mile Creek in Grimsby and then onto Fort George, in Niagara.
This was a major victory for the British forces and contributed to the permanent retreat of the Americans in 1814.
The War of 1812 is considered by many to be the most significant war in Canada’s history. As Americans had asserted their independence from the British Crown, Canadians were successful in remaining autonomous from the United States.
The full extent to which the Battle of Stoney Creek impacted on the Battlefield Park site is still to be discovered. Thus far, the
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Site Chronology only archaeological evidence found of American soldiers on the site is two buttons from an American militia uniform. This is an Prehistoric and historic Native cultural horizon intriguing indication that the site has the potential to reveal more (ca. 13,000 years before remnants from the Battle and other historic eras through further present to 1790). archaeological investigation. 1789 – The Gages arrive in Upper Canada. 1792-1795 acquisition of Battlefield Park was designated by the Historic Sites and lands by James & Mary Gage. Monuments Board of Canada (HSMBC) in 1960, in response to War of 1812 Battle, the “threat of residential development to the integrity of the June 5–6, 1813. battlefield area”. Refer to page 3 in the included 1835 – property sold to the Honourable Robert Commemorative Integrity Statement in Appendix A, for further Neilson. information regarding this 1960’s designation. 1899 -The Women’s Wentworth Historical Society purchased 1.7 ha 4.0 Site Chronology and Uses (4.5 acres) of the former Gage Farm. 1910 -1913 – The Park has changed significantly since it was first farmed by Construction of the Monument. The opening James Gage in the late nineteenth century. Within this celebrated with the trans- agricultural cultural landscape, several significant events took Atlantic communication with Queen Mary at place beginning with the pivotal Battle of Stoney Creek in June Buckingham Palace. of 1813. A century later, Gage’s granddaughter Sara Calder 1920 – The development of the commemorative added the impressive Monument that now dominates the view of landscape by Howard the original farm house. The site became a public park managed and Lorrie Dunington - Grubb. by the Women’s Wentworth Historical Society, Niagara Parks 1954 – area still Commission, The City of Stoney Creek and now, with the 2001 primarily orchards. amalgamation, the City of Hamilton. 1960 – The site is designated a National Historic Site. 1962 – The park is managed by the Niagara Parks Commission.
Figure 20 Stoney Creek Battlefield House. View of Gage House looking south-east. Source: Janet Forjan-Freeman Hamilton Postcards Website www.hamiltonpostcard.com 46 Battlefield Park National Historic Site Master Plan September 2010
Site Chronology continued
1971 – The Niagara Parks Commission (NPC) restored Gage House as a museum. During the time that the Niagara Parks Commission was involved with the site, the two uses of the property were recreation and conservation. The connection to the Bruce Trail was added through the park during this period. Figure 21 View of Gage House and Monument Hill looking south. 1982 – Women’s Source: Janet Forjan-Freeman Hamilton Postcards Website Wentworth Historical www.hamiltonpostcard.com Society officially dissolved. 1988 – Park managed Over the years, the site has evolved with the addition and by City of Stoney Creek. 1988 – The NPC no removals of several structures including many outbuildings longer is involved in the associated with the farming activities. The perimeter of the site site and the City of Stoney Creek takes over. also changed with the severance of four residential lots on King 1993- Restoration of Street West in the mid-twentieth century. Monument.
1995 – Restoration of Gage House. 1999 – “Grandview” relocated to Park. Bandshell removed. 2000 – Picnic shelter / pavilion added, parking lot moved to current location.
Figure 22 Gage House looking north. Reprinted with the permission of the Hamilton Spectator.
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Figure 23 Gage House looking north. Reprinted with the permission of the Hamilton Spectator.
Figure 24 Gage House looking north. Reprinted with the permission of the Hamilton Spectator.
Figure 25 Gage House and Barn looking north. City of Hamilton Special Collections.
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Figure 26 Gage House looking north-west.
Reprinted with the permission of the Hamilton Spectator.
Figure 27 Gage House looking east. Reprinted with the permission of the Hamilton Spectator.
Figure 28 Gage House looking south-east. Reprinted with the permission of the Hamilton Spectator.
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Figure 29 Gage House looking north. Reprinted with the permission Hamilton Spectator.
Today there remains several buildings on the site with the potential to support museum operations.
1. Gage House: the original historic house operates as a house museum with costumed interpreters, exhibits, and support spaces. It is not fully barrier free, and is subject of a Historic Structure Report by Craig Sims (2008).
2. Monument Tower: built at the initiative of Sara Calder and the Women’s Wentworth Historical Society at the turn of the twentieth century. It was dedicated and unveiled in 1913 on the centennial of the Battle of Stoney Creek by Queen Mary (see Figure 2).
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Figure 30 March 18, 2010 “Grandview” looking south.
3. Nash Jackson House, “Grandview”: recently restored and renovated, a historic residential building relocated to the site in 1999. The house is linked to Battlefield House and Stoney Creek and two centuries of family heritage that intertwines with Stoney Creek’s social history. It is used for museum exhibits, office and support space, meeting rooms, and interpretation. It is fully wheelchair accessible (see Figure 30).
4. Barn (26’x36’): relocated from its original location, now used as a Parks Maintenance building with outdoor equipment storage. It is headquarters for grounds maintenance staff (see Figure 38). The Historic Structure Report recently completed identified it as having components that could potentially be from early Gage farm activities.
5. Pavilion: built in 2000, contains public washrooms, a concession room available for rental to groups using the Park to serve prepared foods and drink, and provides a covered picnic table area. See Figure 42.
6. 99 King Street West: the former residence located at the corner of Centennial Parkway South and King Street West is used
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for museum staff support space and administration. Demolished May 2010, allowing for new open frontage (see Figure 41).
7. 95 King Street West: was a private residence located on King Street West, purchased by the City of Hamilton in early 2009. House was demolished Nov. 9, 2009 opening up a view of “Grandview” (two other residences on King Street West had already been purchased and demolished in the past allowing for a new open frontage along the entire length of King Street West).
This collection of buildings supports both museum and general park uses. With increased attention paid to the War of 1812 and increased awareness of the unique historical values associated with the site, the City has through its consultations, undertaken a review of each building and past Master Plans for the site to determine what new improvements are needed to accommodate interpretation and museum programming.
5.0 Existing Conditions
Battlefield Park National Historic Site is located in the community of Stoney Creek, now a part of the City of Hamilton. King Street West is the main east/west street, historically designated as Highway 8 which ran east from Hamilton towards Niagara.
Figure 31 Smith’s Knoll. Today the property is bounded by residential development to the north and east with the Toronto Hamilton & Buffalo (TH&B) Railway (Figure 44) and Niagara Escarpment immediately to the south.
Two properties of heritage significance are located in proximity to Battlefield Park. One is the Stoney Creek Cemetery that is located west of the intersection of Centennial Parkway South and King Street West on the south side of King. It is here where many Figure 32 View from Smith’s Knoll into of the early settlers are buried. The second site of heritage Battlefield Park’s north end corner (front lawn). significance is Smith’s Knoll, part of the Battle of Stoney Creek
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battlefield and a War of 1812 cemetery (Figure 31). Smith’s Knoll is located along King Street West on the north side further east of the site. When standing at the knoll you can look along King Street West and glimpse the frontage of Battlefield Park (Figure 32).
5.1 Entrance and West Side
Figure 33 Front lawn of Gage House. The only driveway into the Park has been relocated to the west side of Battlefield Creek from the original location on the east side of the creek. This allows the visitor to drive into the site and follow the granular driveway as it turns to the right and crosses in front of “Grandview”, the Nash Jackson house. The laneway continues curving around to the rear of “Grandview” and leads to a long gravel parking lot which contains parking for approximately 100 cars. The driveway is lined to a great extent
Figure 34 A picket lined entrance lane by a white picket fence (Figure 34) which was added to the leading visitors to parking lot. recreated setting for “Grandview” and assists in the wayfinding and directing of visitors to the parking area (Figure 35).
Upon entering the site, the driveway turns to the right to “Grandview” and the parking area and to the left along a small wooden bridge over Battlefield Creek to the Gage House and the Arrival Court (Figure 37). This driveway circles around the main commemorative courtyard and accesses the parking and
Figure 35 Wayfinding. drop off on the easterly side. This route is frequently closed to public traffic and is used only for providing parking close to the Gage House for visitors requiring mobility assistance. It also is the main fire route in this area.
There is a secondary route linking King Street West to Gage House on the east side of the creek. It was formerly the main entrance drive and now has been designated as a pedestrian route only. Figure 36 The gravel parking lot contains approximately 100 parking spots.
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One of the building components on the west side of the creek is the barn, portions of which have heritage value and are potential remnants from the Gage farming period (Figure 38). It is used as the Parks staff maintenance yard and headquarters and the adjacent area is used for park maintenance activities. Depending on the season, the area around the barn contains picnic tables, lawnmowers, and other pieces of equipment.
Figure 37 A wooden bridge links the east In the rear yard of the corner property at 99 King Street West, and west side of the Park. there are several sheds that have been used for museum and park maintenance activities that are not historically valuable and will also be removed. There is an outdoor storage yard which is secured by concrete “jersey” barriers. This area is fully visible from Centennial Parkway South.
In addition to the recently refurbished “Grandview”, there is the park pavilion which contains a sheltered picnic area as well as a
Figure 38 Portions of the Barn have been concession room and washrooms (Figure 42). The park pavilion is found to date from the Gage era. where the former parking lot was located and is directly in line with the main entrance drive. Access to the pavilion is controlled by removable bollards. The asphalt driveway which formerly led to it has been removed and is now a pedestrian link only.
The northern section of the Park is mown lawn with individual specimen deciduous trees in abundance (see Figure 40). There are several large mature evergreen trees both near the entrance Figure 39 Few remnants of the driveway within the former residential yards along King Street orchards remain. West, and aligned along Centennial Parkway South providing a buffer between the heavily travelled road and the Park. Within the lawn area south of the existing parking lot, there is a remnant pear tree (Figure 39) which is a possible survivor from the era up to the 1960’s when the west side of the Park was all orchard.
As the visitor heads further south in the Park, the lawn is not mown as it is in the northern part of the Park, a result of changes made Figure 40 West of the creek is maintained to the main activities (see Figure 43). The resulting meadow is parkland with specimen trees.
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dotted with small trees and shrubs which are becoming established. There are informal mown paths through the meadow area linking the northern part of the Park to the south.
Several narrow informal trails run along and through the wooded section of the southwest portion of the site. They are bare, uneven, earth tracks worn by the public and are not accessible Figure 41 The corner of Centennial (see Figure 47). There is no pedestrian crossing of the creek to Parkway South and King Street West showing existing trees to be removed access this portion of the site except by trespassing across the to open views into park. railway lands. The area slopes gently towards the stream with one recognizable drainage swale running in a diagonal line from the lawn area towards the stream. During the periods where the major re-enactment events occur, the area that is mown is used as the primary activity area and very little use is made of the meadow or the forested area. The lands immediately north of the railway are privately owned. There is no fence or signage indicating the southern boundary of the Park. Figure 42 The Park Pavilion contains washrooms and a concession room. 5.2 East Side
One of the most dramatic components of the eastern part of the site is the topography. While the western section of the property has a gradual slope from King Street West up to the lands abutting the railway, the eastern portion of the site has both manmade and natural topographic features that have a great impact on the uses in the Park. The lawn abutting King Street Figure 43 Meadow covers the south part of the west side. West rises in significant terraces to the ground floor elevation of Gage House, see Figure 33. The location of Gage House since its earliest days has allowed it to have a great prominence in its landscaped setting. The unusual component of the topography is that Gage House is not located on the highest point of land in the park and the land continues to rise behind Gage House, first on a level terrace that contains the formal Dunington-Grubb arrival courtyard and then dramatically climbs to the top of the hill where the Monument is placed. The total change in elevation Figure 44 The TH&B Railway runs along the south edge of the Park, east from the bottom of the Monument Hill to the top level where you of the creek.
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access the formal stairs to the main door of the Monument is 10.5 metres.
The Monument itself is located on a flat terrace which drops off abruptly to the west and the south. The slopes on the west and south sides are heavily vegetated and as one enters into this forested area, the land drops dramatically down into a ravine that runs east/west through the site, bringing water from the Figure 45 Public access at Battlefield Drive adjacent subdivision into the Park, across the site and into is limited by slope and vegetation. Battlefield Creek. This ravine condition isolates the southeast sector of the Park since there is no formal pedestrian access across the ravine through the wooded area, only narrow worn tracks created by pedestrians (see Figure 47). The remainder of the wooded area consists of a rolling topography heavily forested with native and naturalizing plant material with dense understorey and tall shade trees.
There are three potential public access points from the Park to the adjacent subdivision to the East. One of them is at the ravine Figure 46 The east property line runs along rear residential yards. at the north end. The second one is a third of the way along at Robb Street and the final access point is at the very southeast corner of the Park.
Even though there is public land that connects to the adjacent subdivision, the woods and the topography of the Park site restrict the feasibility to develop formal walkway entrances into the site. Creating new entrances at these locations would require significant grading to make the access points barrier free. It would also greatly impact the forest collection and would require new bridges to cross over Battlefield Creek in order to access the west side of the Park (see Figure 37). Figure 47 Informal trails are worn through wooded areas.
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6.0 Battlefield Creek Site Existing Conditions and Recommendations (Prepared by AMEC)
Site issues include the existing creek stability, flooding of the Park, and the requirements for the proposed bridge crossing. The existing creek banks are being actively eroded and the creek is becoming more entrenched over time. As Battlefield Park is a Natural Heritage Site there are limitations on the amount and type of creek work that could occur to promote creek stability. Localized treatments to the bank and creek base may be possible using ‘softer’ techniques such as bank reshaping and bio- stabilization. Assessment of potential approaches to improve creek stability within Battlefield Park would require a qualified fluvial geomorphologist during the design stage of future work.
The Regional Storm floodplain has to be considered when planning new park infrastructure such as roads, crossings, buildings etc. Localized grading of the park areas may assist in reducing the Regional Storm floodplain to facilitate the positioning of proposed infrastructure.
The proposed pedestrian crossing would have to consider existing creek characteristics, such as bank width and creek dynamics such as stability. The bridge would be required to convey the 2 year storm peak flow with freeboard as a minimum, although the 10 year storm would be a reasonable target. Based on the existing creek width of 7 to 10 m, the bridge would have to be 12 to 15 m in width, with a higher probability of being closer to 15 m to allow for creek instability and a factor of safety. It should be noted, that this is an initial estimate and a more detailed investigation would need to be conducted to refine the bridge width requirement. Furthermore, since the creek banks have been noted to be high and steep along sections of this creek reach, possible mitigation measures to reduce the rate of erosion and the bridge width requirement could be implemented. One possibility would be for the creek banks to be re-shaped to allow for improved floodplain connectivity and bio-engineering
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techniques to be implemented to stabilize the creek banks. Refinement of the bridge width would be possible once a qualified fluvial geomorphologist assesses the stability of the creek at the proposed bridge location.
The hydrology and hydraulics of Battlefield Creek has been documented within the City of Stoney Creek Flood Damage Reduction Study (FDRP), 1989 by AMEC Engineering Limited. The hydrology and hydraulics are currently in the process of being updated for the Stoney Creek and Battlefield Creek Flood and Erosion Control Class Environmental Assessment is being conducted by Hamilton Conservation Authority, the draft Characterization Report was submitted in 2009 as well as a draft alternative assessment report. AMEC is currently waiting for comments on the second report.
The creek reach through Battlefield Park can be generally characterized as an intermittent flowing watercourse with moderate slope and sinuosity. The creek generally has a width of 7 to 10m at the top of bank. A pool-riffle sequence morphology is evident with spacing approximately 15 – 20m. The watercourse has a cobble base with some silt deposits. The bankfull depth is in the range of 0.10 to 0.40m. The watercourse has high banks (1.5 to 3.5m) which are composed of both clay and sandy soils. The watercourse is moderately entrenched due to the high banks and is therefore incurring a high degree of erosion resulting in steep to vertical banks. The dominant geomorphic process is widening.
Downstream of Battlefield Park is King Street West. The King Street West crossing is a 7.2 by 1.7m bridge that conveys the 100 year storm but is overtopped by the Regional Storm Hurricane Hazel.
The existing crossing within the Battlefield Park is a wooden deck of approximately 7.3m width and 1.80m rise. The bridge is supported by concrete abutments. Based on the FDRP the bridge is overtopped during the 100 year storm event.
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Figure 48
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The Regional Storm Hurricane Hazel is the Regulatory storm event for this creek reach. The FDRP mapped both the 100 year and Regional Storm Hurricane Hazel for the Flood Risk Mapping, see Figure 48. The 100 year peak flow is contained primarily within the channel from the Niagara Escarpment to the bridge crossing within Battlefield Park, where it overtops the banks and floods the park area downstream to King Street West. The Regional Storm event overtops the creek banks upstream of the Park’s bridge crossing and floods a larger section of the Park, but does not flood the Park buildings. Buildings are flooded along the south side of King Street West by the Regional Storm Event.
7.0 Proposed Master Plan Recommendation Relative to Natural Resources (Prepared by Dougan and Associates Ecological Consulting and Design)
The Master Plan proposes changes that are focused primarily in the built areas of the Park. These include additional parking, a new interpretive centre, and the relocation of the maintenance yard. Future work includes improvements to trails and provisions for wheelchair access. It is expected that the introduction of these facilities will result in the relocation of the re-enactment activities and other more active uses into the open areas located further southward on the site.
The proposed works and shift in activity areas is not expected to directly impact the natural features on the site. Secondary impacts, such as those resulting from increased user levels in the Park, should be identified and managed through appropriate design, and perhaps through signage related to keeping on trails, disposal of refuse, etc. There may be benefits of additional screen plantings along Centennial Parkway South to reduce the visual impacts of road traffic.
The only works that could directly affect the natural features on the site relate to improved trail facilities. The placement of trails
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is constrained by proximity to the edge of the ravine, the presence of large trees and their rooting systems, and the somewhat rugged, rocky terrain associated with the areas along the valley. The presence of Butternut, an endangered tree species, is also noteworthy and could affect the location of future built trails, particularly if the trail standard requires any clearing or grading. The enhancement of the existing informal trails could include provisions to manage the identified constraints, including the use of low impact trail materials, closure of some informal trails, and remedial treatment of vegetation along the trails.
The terrestrial resource study also identified the presence and often dominance of introduced species within the ravine area. These represent a deficiency in the long term management of these lands, as there are obvious soil erosion areas and lack of groundcovers and regeneration that contribute to water quality issues. These are not within the scope of the Master Plan; a separate Management Plan to address these issues in the long term is recommended.
The Master Plan should consider the use of native or non-invasive species in the active use areas to reinforce the availability of seed from native plant sources of the site.
7.1 Existing Conditions: Natural Resources - Vegetation and Wildlife
This natural resource assessment examines the vegetation and wildlife as well as associated ecological functions and attributes within Battlefield Park National Historic Site.
The current analysis included a review of background information and the results of field inventories conducted in 2008 and 2009. Key terrestrial features and functions within the Park are protected according to the policies of the Provincial Policy Statement (PPS) 2005, the former Stoney Creek Official Plan, the
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draft City of Hamilton Urban Official Plan (2009), and the policies of the Hamilton Conservation Authority.
The following summarizes the terrestrial features and functions of Battlefield Park National Historic Site in the context of the natural heritage policy framework that governs development and site alteration.
7.2 Methods Background Information Review
A literature review was performed to characterize general baseline conditions, and to highlight potential constraints with respect to natural heritage policies. Literature and data consulted included: NHIC Ontario Natural Heritage Information Centre Database Natural Heritage Geographic Query for rare element occurrences (NHIC, 2009) Hamilton Conservation Authority (Data Request) (HCA, 2008) 2008 colour digital orthogonally rectified imagery (Google Earth, 2008) Atlas of the Mammals of Hamilton (Vlasman, 2005) The Herpetofauna of Hamilton (Lamond and Duncan, 2003) Hamilton Natural Areas Inventory 2003 – Site Summaries and Species Checklists (Dwyer, 2003) Draft Stoney Creek Watershed Class EA - Background Study (2009)
The literature review also assessed whether any regionally rare vegetation or wildlife species had been previously recorded within the Environmentally Significant Area associated with the park lands.
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7.3 Field Inventory 7.3.1 Vegetation Resources
Field investigations of vegetation resources were conducted on May 28, July 18, and August 12, 2008 as part of the Stoney Creek Watershed Class Environmental Assessment, and additional site inspections were conducted on Sept. 2 and Sept. 8, 2009. Natural features located within the study area were mapped as polygons onto digital ortho-photography at a scale of 1:3000 and the polygons were transferred to a digital base (see Figure 51). The polygons were classified using the Ecological Land Classification for Southern Ontario (ELC) (Lee et al., 1998). A cumulative vascular plant species list was compiled (see Figure 49). Federal rarity status was based on the Canadian Species at Risk Listing (COSEWIC, 2009). Provincial status of plant species was based on the Natural Heritage Resources of Ontario: Rare Vascular Species List (Oldham, 1999), and the Species List for Provincially-Tracked Vascular Plants (NHIC, 2008). Rarity in the Hamilton Region was determined using The Vascular Plants of Hamilton, Ontario (Goodban, 2003). Nomenclature for plant species follows the Ontario Plant List (Newmaster et al, 1998) with updates from Newmaster and Ragupathy (2005).
7.3.2 Wildlife Resources
Two amphibian and two breeding bird surveys were conducted on June 12 and June 28, 2008 following the Marsh Monitoring (BSC, 2003) and Ontario Breeding Bird Atlas (OBBA, 2001) protocols, respectively. The status of breeding birds in the study area was determined using The Breeding Birds of Hamilton, Ontario (Curry, 2003), while the provincial and federal status of birds was based on the Canadian Species at Risk Listing (COSEWIC, 2009) and the Species at Risk in Ontario List (OMNR, 2006). Figure 50 summarizes the wildlife survey dates.
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7.4 Findings 7.4.1 Significant Portions of the Habitat of Endangered and Threatened Species
A query of the NHIC database (NHIC, 2009), the Atlas of the Mammals of Hamilton (Vlasman, 2005) and the Herpetofauna of Hamilton (Lamond and Duncan, 2003) revealed no records of significant species occurrences in the study area, including Endangered and Threatened species.
7.4.2 Significant Woodlands
The study area contains Significant Woodlands that are protected under the Provincial Policy Statement (PPS) (2005), and represent those identified in the City of Hamilton Official Plan, Schedule B-2. Development and site alteration, such as the expansion or upgrading of trails, within these Significant Woodlands is not permitted unless it is demonstrated through an Environmental Impact Study that there will be no negative impacts on the Significant Woodlands and their ecological functions (PPS 2005).
7.4.3 Significant Valleylands
The City of Hamilton has not established criteria for identifying Significant Valleylands within the municipality. According to the draft City of Hamilton Urban Official Plan, these features should be identified during the course of an Environmental Assessment. The draft Official Plan references the Provincial Policy Statement (2005) definition of Significant Valleyland as “a natural area that occurs in a valley or other landform depression that has water flowing through or standing for some period of the year which is ecologically important in terms of features, functions, representation or amount of contributing to the quality and diversity of an identifiable geographic area or natural heritage system”. The valleylands through the study site, as defined by top of bank,
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meet this criterion; therefore we have assumed that they constitute Significant Valleylands. According to the PPS, development and site alteration within any of these areas is not permitted unless it is demonstrated that there will be no negative impacts on their features and ecological functions (PPS 2005).
In addition, proponents must demonstrate no alteration to control of flooding, erosion, pollution, and conservation of land within 15 metres of the top of bank (Hamilton Conservation Authority Planning & Regulation Policies and Guidelines, 2009).
7.4.4 Environmentally Significant Areas
There is an Environmentally Significant Area (ESA) which extends into the study area that is protected according to Hamilton’s draft Official Plan: the Devil’s Punchbowl ESA (ESA # 54). This ESA received its designation based on presence of a Significant Earth Science Feature (regionally significant landform); and its significant ecological functions. More specifically it contains 1) significant species, 2) rare biotic communities, 3) facilitates movement between natural areas along the Niagara Escarpment, and 4) is representative of the natural features of the Niagara Peninsula section of the Niagara Escarpment. According to the City of Hamilton Official Plan (2009), it must be demonstrated through an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) that there will be no negative impacts to the ESA and its ecological functions; that connectivity for surface/ground water, plants and wildlife to the ESA will be maintained to ensure their movement across the landscape; and that the removal of “other natural features” will be minimized through planning and design (City of Hamilton Official Plan 2009, Pol. 2.5.8).
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7.5 Field Inventories 7.5.1 Impacts of Human Activities
The Park setting is close to the base of the Niagara Escarpment, on lands that were utilized for agricultural purposes over many decades, before being integrated as parkland within the urbanizing area of Stoney Creek. There are remnant trees indicating past Apple and Pear orchards in the southwest quadrant of the Park, and major areas of the ravine have been disturbed to the degree that native forest cover was converted to introduced species including Black Locust, Norway Maple and Crack Willow. The tableland immediately west of the upper ravine has regenerated into a stand dominated by Black Walnut with Sugar Maple as a secondary species, an unusual combination given the soils. Indicators present suggest that this woodland was cleared and probably used as pasture before the current cover became dominant. In the lower ravine, steep slopes contain minimal understorey and groundcovers due to the dense shade as well as activities such as compost dumping which have disturbed natural cover.
Open areas of the Park are currently being used for passive recreation. Numerous informal trails run through the forested areas of the property. The open areas of the property are being used for picnicking, informal recreation, and for the re- enactment of the historic battle which took place on the site and vicinity in 1813. Soil compaction and erosion, in addition to consumer waste were evident along some trail edges, particularly where existing trails are located along the top of the main ravine along the creek. Trail use likely affects wildlife, including nesting birds. Residential land uses along the east side of the ravine have contributed to the alteration and removal of natural vegetation, the dumping of yard waste, and increased erosion along the edge of the ravine. Centennial Parkway South, located along the western border of the Park, contributes saltspray into
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the Park, acts as a barrier to wildlife movement, and likely contributes to wildlife mortality due to roadkills.
7.5.2 Significant Portions of the Habitat of Endangered and Threatened Species
2009 field investigations encountered Butternut (Juglans cineria), a plant species considered at risk by COSEWIC (2009) and COSSARO (2009), and listed as Endangered both federally and provincially. Two trees were noted along the west side of Battlefield Creek. The Significant Habitat of Butternut is protected under the Provincial Policy Statement (2005) and the Hamilton OP (2009); new development and site alteration are not permitted in these areas. Any works that are proposed in the vicinity of identified trees must undertake a process to evaluate the health of the trees and determine whether they are to be removed or protected. If the trees are deemed unhealthy, then they can be removed. If they are healthy, then proposed development cannot be located within the vicinity of these trees, and the trees must be protected from development and site alteration by a buffer (to be determined by a qualified Butternut assessor).
7.5.3 Significant Wildlife Habitat
Significant Wildlife Habitat (SWH) is protected under the Provincial Policy Statement (2005) and general practices to identify Significant Wildlife Habitat are defined in the Significant Wildlife Habitat Technical Guide (SWH) (OMNR, 2000). Under the provisions of the PPS, SWH are intended to be identified on regional basis using criteria that have been refined to reflect the habitats and conditions in that region. The City of Hamilton has not developed specific SWH criteria and polices for their jurisdiction. Therefore, Province’s Natural Heritage Reference Manual (OMNR, 1999) and Significant Wildlife Habitat Technical Guide (OMNR, 2000) were used to assess whether Significant
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Wildlife Habitat potentially exists within the Park. Of the four major categories of significant wildlife habitat listed by OMNR, two categories that potentially apply are Habitat for Species of Conservation Concern, and Animal Movement Corridor. The other categories (seasonal concentration areas, rare vegetation communities or specialized habitats for wildlife) likely do not apply to the immediate area but may apply to the adjoining Devil’s Punchbowl Escarpment ESA.
With respect to Habitat for Species of Conservation Concern, the following species are noteworthy:
Monarch (Danaus plexippus) – Special Concern (COSEWIC 2009); undoubtedly occurs in the study area during summer and fall. However, this species migrates through most habitats within the City of Hamilton and its presence would not represent a constraint. Jefferson Salamander (Ambystoma jeffersonianum) – reported from ESA, Threatened (COSEWIC, 2009) and S Rank of S2 (NHIC, 2008); may occur in the study area along Battlefield Creek. Milksnake (Lampropeltis triangulum) – reported from ESA, Special Concern (COSEWIC, 2009; OMNR, 2006); may utilize the study area in woodland edges and fields. American Redstart (Setophaga ruticilla) – uncommon in City of Hamilton (Curry, 2003), single bird observed June 10, 2008, probably a late migrant. Carolina Wren (Thryothorus ludovicianus) – rare in City of Hamilton (Curry, 2003), single bird observed singing Sept. 5, 2009, outside breeding period but with some potential to breed given habitat present. Yellow-billed Cuckoo (Coccyzus americanus) – reported from ESA, rare in the City of Hamilton (Curry, 2003); unlikely to occur in the study area or in very limited numbers.
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Canada Warbler (Wilsonia canadensis) – reported from ESA, Threatened (COSEWIC, 2009) and rare in the City of Hamilton (Curry, 2003); unlikely to occur in the study area as a breeder. Sycamore (Platanus occidentalis) – rare in City of Hamilton (Goodban, 2003); localized in the ravine. Ground Juniper (Juniperus horizontalis – rare in City of Hamilton (Goodban, 2003), Honey Locust (Gleditsia triacanthos – rare in Ontario (NHIC, 2008), Kentucky Coffeetree (Gymnocladus dioicus – rare in Ontario (NHIC, 2008) were documented on the site but have been introduced as plantings.
An Animal Movement Corridor would potentially apply to the Battlefield Creek ravine, which connects the Escarpment to Lake Ontario, albeit through an intensively urbanized area.
7.6 Vegetation Inventory Findings
A total of 109 vascular plant species or genera were documented in the Park during the 2008/09 field investigations; a list of species is provided in Figure 49. Native species comprise approximately 55% of the recorded species. Nine Ecological Land Classification polygons were mapped and categorized into distinct cover types. Eight different natural and semi-natural covers were identified and classified to Vegetation Type in the ELC system (Lee et al 1998). A substantial portion of the forested units consist of communities that have regenerated following past disturbance, and these features contain relatively high components of introduced species such as Black Walnut, Black Locust, and Norway Maple. Several noteworthy species were identified (see previous section); several of these species were introduced as plantings in the Park, and would otherwise not likely be present.
The ravine and floodplain forests along Battlefield Creek are considered high constraint areas. Two forest community types were classified: Dry-Fresh Sugar Maple-Black Cherry Deciduous
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Forest (FOD5-7), and Dry-Fresh Black Walnut - Maple Deciduous Forest (FOD4). The latter community reflects the past disturbances which have occurred in the ravine and immediate vicinity.
As discussed above, the vegetation in the Park has been subjected to major changes since settlement, including intensive agricultural uses. Although the wooded areas have regenerated, there has been displacement of native species in the lower ravine areas as well as in the uplands west of the upper ravine. Steep slopes in the ravine have been affected by informal trails and by soil and compost dumping over a long period of time as the area was farmed and eventually urbanized. There are opportunities to improve the vegetation in natural areas of the Park through control of invasive species such as Garlic Mustard and Buckthorn. It would also be desirable to re-establish native shade-tolerant tree species in the lower ravine area, where Black Locust and Norway Maple have displaced the normal succession sequence. The disturbed cover is contributing soil erosion due to deep shade and impacts related to pedestrian access and debris dumping. Management would likely include canopy thinning to control seed sources, and establishment of saplings of desirable species such as Sugar Maple.
7.6.1 Wildlife Inventory Findings
No nationally or provincially significant species of wildlife were noted during 2008 wildlife surveys. In addition, no species of birds that are considered rare in the City of Hamilton were documented as breeding at the site. However, it should be noted that the woodlands along Battlefield Creek likely support a high diversity of wildlife due to the connection with the Niagara Escarpment to the south.
Twenty-five species of birds were detected that were considered to be breeding or on territory. An additional species, Great Blue
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Heron, was seen in the study area but, due to its breeding habitat requirements, was considered as foraging or visiting the site only. Three of the breeding species (Rock Pigeon, European Starling, and House Sparrow) are introduced species. Of the remaining 22 species, none are currently designated as at risk by COSEWIC (COSEWIC, 2009) or OMNR (OMNR, 2006); all but one species are considered either common or abundant and widespread in the City of Hamilton (Curry, 2003). The exception is the American Redstart, which is considered uncommon and widespread. However, one individual was detected, and only on June 12; therefore this bird may represent a late migrant rather than a breeder. At a regional level, three of species are considered priority species in BCR 13: Northern Flicker, Willow Flycatcher, and Baltimore Oriole (OPIF, 2006). The highest level of breeding evidence obtained was fledged young seen of the following three species: American Robin, European Starling, and Common Grackle. The next highest level of breeding evidence was of singing males, which was observed for 16 species.
In addition to species observed during the breeding bird surveys in 2008, a Carolina Wren (Thryothorus ludovicianus) was heard singing on September 5, 2009. Based on the date and single observation, it is unknown if the bird bred in the area or was a post-breeding wanderer. However, based on its preference for moist or bottomland woods (Read, 2007) and mature residential areas adjacent to wooded creek ravines (Curry, 2006), there is a possibility that this species breeds within the ravine even though it was not detected in 2008. The Carolina Wren is considered rare in the City of Hamilton (Curry, 2003) but has no other federal or provincial status.
No amphibians were detected during the two nocturnal surveys. In addition, no amphibians were detected incidentally during the two breeding bird and three vegetation surveys. This would suggest that breeding habitat for amphibians is limited locally.
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The following relate to the corresponding schedules:
1. Native Status N = Native I = Introduced
2. S-Rank Subnational Rank: Provincial (or Subnational) ranks are used by the Natural Heritage Information Centre to set protection priorities for rare species and natural communities. These ranks are not legal designations. Provincial ranks are assigned in a manner similar to that described for global ranks, but consider only those factors within the political boundaries of Ontario. By comparing the global and provincial ranks, the status, rarity, and the urgency of conservation needs can be ascertained. The NHIC evaluates provincial ranks on a continual basis and produces updated lists at least annually. S-Rank Definition: S1 = Extremely rare in Ontario; usually 5 or fewer occurrences in the province or very few remaining individuals; often especially vulnerable to extirpation. S2 = Very rare in Ontario; usually between 5 and 20 occurrences in the province or with many individuals in fewer occurrences; often susceptible to extirpation. S3 = Rare to uncommon in Ontario; usually between 20 and 100 occurrences in the province; may have fewer occurrences, but with a large number of individuals in some populations; may be susceptible to large-scale disturbances. Most species with an S3 rank are assigned to the watch list, unless they have a relatively high global rank. S4 = Common and apparently secure in Ontario; usually with more than 100 occurrences in the province. S5 = Very common and demonstrably secure in Ontario. SH = Historically known from Ontario, but not verified recently (typically not recorded in the province in the last 20 years); however suitable habitat is thought to be still present in the
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province and there is reasonable expectation that the species may be rediscovered.
SE = Exotic; not believed to be a native component of Ontario's flora. SU = Unrankable, often because of low search effort or cryptic nature of the species, there is insufficient information available to assign a more accurate rank; more data is needed.
3. Hamilton Status (Goodban, 2003) R = Rare in the City of Hamilton (known from five or fewer sites). U= Uncommon in the City of Hamilton (known from six to ten sites).
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Figure 49 Vegetation Resources
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Figure 49 Cont. Vegetation Resources
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Figure 49 Cont. Vegetation Resources
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Figure 50 Wildlife Resources
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Figure 51
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7.7 Summary of Findings, Constraints, and Opportunities
This terrestrial assessment summarizes what is currently known about the terrestrial features and functions within the Park in the context of the natural heritage policy framework that governs development and site alteration. The summary is based on existing background information on the terrestrial features and functions on the site, together with wildlife and vegetation surveys conducted by Dougan and Associates Ecological Consulting and Design in the spring and summer of 2008 and 2009. The following summarizes the key findings of the assessment:
Nine vegetation communities were classified according to the Ecological Land Classification system; eight are natural or semi- natural community types. A total of 109 vascular plants were identified, including four species considered rare in the City of Hamilton, and one species considered Endangered in Canada and Ontario. Approximately 55% of the plant flora consists of native species. The forested vegetation units in the Park constitute Significant Woodlands as identified in the draft City of Hamilton Official Plan (2006) under the policies of the Provincial Policy Statement (2005). Development proposals in these areas must demonstrate there will be no negative impacts on these features or their ecological functions. In addition, proposals must demonstrate no alteration to control of flooding, erosion, pollution and conservation of land within 15 metres of the top of bank (Hamilton Conservation Authority Planning & Regulation Policies and Guidelines, 2009). The vegetation units defined by top of bank likely constitute Significant Valleylands based on the definition provided under the Provincial Policy Statement (2005). Proposals for site alteration within these areas must demonstrate there will be no negative impacts on these features or their ecological functions.
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There are Endangered Butternut trees present in the forested area whose habitats may constitute areas of Significant Habitat of Endangered and Threatened species, subject to input from Ministry of Natural Resources. They are protected according to the Provincial Policy Statement (2005); and development or site alteration is not permitted in these areas (Hamilton OP 2006).The Devil’s Punchbowl Environmentally Significant Area extends partially into the study area. It was designated on the basis of a Significant Earth Science Feature, and for its ecological functions, and is protected under the draft City of Hamilton OP (2009). Proposals for development in the immediate vicinity of ESA’s must demonstrate there will be 1) no negative impacts to the ESA and its ecological functions; 2) connectivity for surface/ground water, plants and wildlife between this ESA and the Stoney Creek Ravine ESA further south, to ensure the movement of these elements across the landscape; and 3) the removal of “other natural features” will be minimized through planning and design (draft City of Hamilton OP 2006).
The City of Hamilton has not developed specific Significant Wildlife Criteria, however, according to the Province’s Natural Heritage Reference Manual (OMNR, 1999) and Significant Wildlife Habitat Technical Guide (OMNR, 2000) there are two categories of potential significant wildlife habitat present, including Habitat for Species of Conservation Concern, and Animal Movement Corridor.
The most significant features and functions on the property are related to the natural vegetation units along Battlefield Creek, particularly those areas associated with the Butternut trees, and locally and regionally rare plant and wildlife species. The ravine and associated woodlands represent high constraint areas due to topography, forest conditions, and the presence of Butternut trees.
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Current policies will likely require completion of an Environmental Impact Study to determine the impacts and potential mitigation related to the redevelopment of trails within the natural areas of the site. Development of the trail system in the wooded area could potentially disturb wildlife during construction and also through increased usage of the trails; avoidance of the key nesting period (April 15 to July 15) for construction would be advisable. The existing open field areas of the property, in addition to the more disturbed succession areas in the south end of the Park are very suitable for proposed development as described in the Master Plan.
There is some opportunity to improve the quality of the natural features; a separate Management Plan focused on these areas would be required. The use of native species in the active use areas of the site is recommended to reinforce the remaining natural features.
8.0 The Dunington-Grubb Landscape Plan
The Dunington-Grubb’s were known proponents of the City Beautiful movement whose supporters believed that there was moral and ethical value for a community in creating well ordered public spaces. This was a movement that was popular between 1890 and 1930 in the United Kingdom and North America. The design that was developed and implemented at Battlefield Park was an excellent example of this landscape style of formal geometry, terracing, controlled views, and circulation patterns.
Using the historic record as well as the original Dunington-Grubb plan and with confirmation through archaeological investigation, it is possible to accurately restore and recreate the key components of the Dunington-Grubb plan which are:
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the Monument Hill slope, its terracing and planting; the Arrival courtyard, primarily the perimeter hedge and removing later additions of walkways; and the replanting of the formal gardens on the front terraces, kitchen garden and the perimeter of the house adding walkways and stairs.
This restoration work will acknowledge the significance of the 20th century commemorative layer that was added on the site.
The City of Hamilton has within its collection the original landscape design drawing prepared by the Dunington-Grubb firm (see Figure 52). The key design components of the drawing include a gracefully curving entrance driveway connecting with King Street West which on the drawing is labeled Hamilton and Queenston Stone Road. The driveway heads south into the Park and branches just past Gage House and circles the arrival courtyard.
The second leg of the driveway continues heading south and crosses over Battlefield Creek at a proposed bridge which is immediately southwest of the Monument. This latter section of driveway does not appear to have been implemented. If in fact it was constructed, the majority of the length is now overgrown and there are no indications that a bridge spanned Battlefield Creek at this proposed location.
The components of the formal gardens at the Gage House and the Monument are very well detailed. The house shows a verandah on three sides, the north, west and south. On the east side of the house there is a label saying “additions to the house” leading to a rectangular “yard” which is a typical label for a domestic yard for things such as laundry and outdoor activities relating to the house.
82 H.B. and L.A. Dunington Grubb Sketch Plan for Battlefield Park 1920 Courtesy of the City of Hamilton Figure 52
Enlargement of Gage House Landscape - H.B. and L.A. Dunington Grubb Sketch Plan for Battlefield Park 1920 Courtesy of the City of Hamilton Figure 52 A Enlargement of Monument Landscape - H.B. and L.A. Dunington Grubb Sketch Plan for Battlefield Park 1920 Courtesy of the City of Hamilton Figure 52 B Battlefield Park National Historic Site Master Plan January 2011
Further east from that, there is a very large kitchen garden shown to be divided in four quadrants by walkways. To the north and west of the house are a series of terraces and steps which lead down onto an open north lawn. The primary feature of the formal gardens at the north of the house is a very geometrical alignment of walkways and garden plots. Because of the terracing of the house the gardens themselves are not symmetrical and are more fully developed on the eastern portion of the property where the terraces are flatter. See Figure 52A.
The additional features within the formal terraces are upper walkways which are indicated to be flagstone paved as well as a series of steps; two sets from the west verandah, and two from the north verandah leading to a terrace, and another set of stairs down onto the lawn. There is also a short staircase leading westerly from the first terrace down onto a curvilinear walkway which winds through plant material towards the entrance driveway. The sketch shows two cannons at either side of the west steps.
The entrance of the house on the south side shows a series of steps leading from the verandah to the entrance courtyard driveway.
The Plan shows a continuous vegetative screen along the east perimeter of the property from well past the Monument all the way north to King Street West. There is also a dense vegetative screen extending across King Street West and continuing to Battlefield Creek which is labeled “stream” on this drawing.
The King Street West frontage is shown to be fenced with two curving walls, pillars, and wide gates at the entrance driveway.
The entire north lawn is encircled by a gracefully curving walkway. It links the formal garden with the entrance drive, as well as a separate walk that is aligned along Battlefield creek.
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Figure 53 July 25, 1959 View of Monument Hill showing vegetation along staircase. Reprinted with permission of the Hamilton Spectator.
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Figure 54 View of Monument Hill and Arrival Courtyard featuring the Dunington-Grubb landscape. City of Hamilton Special Collections.
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The proposed plant materials are located primarily between the walkway and the perimeter of the site. The arrival courtyard located immediately south of the Gage House has a very formal treatment showing several architectural components. One feature is a set of stairs at the north end rising up to a flat terrace which continues across the arrival courtyard and again climbs up to a walkway leading to the driveway at the bottom of Monument Hill. See Figure 52B.
The primary feature of the arrival courtyard is a wide walkway linking the two sets of stairs running north/south. Along the walkway are a series of specimen evergreen trees aligned as an allée. The drawing shows a total of seven trees on either side of the walkway and at the north end, there is an additional architectural element indicated as an obelisk or a column based on the shadow on the drawing. This is the focal point of a circular walkway with planting beds around it. Around the perimeter of the central courtyard is hedging and sod.
On Monument Hill the Plan shows a zig-zag of ramping. There are three ramps on the east side of the centre staircase and two on the west side. At the landing of each of the ramps there is a rectangle, possibly indicating a bench or seat. The ramps do not lead directly to the upper level but end at the first landing which is one set of steps below the base of the Monument. Similarly, the first ramp does not begin at the driveway but begins at the first landing which is a set of steps up from the driveway. See Figure 52B.
Based on the spot elevations of the contour lines on the sketch, the total elevation change was 35 feet (10.6m) from the Monument base to the beginning of the climb. The spaces around the ramps are totally planted with low growing plant material. These plants provide a uniform cover on the slope, on both sides of the stairs, and in between the ramps. Small individual trees are also indicated in the planting on the slope.
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At the top of the slope on the flat terrace around the Monument, there is again an indication of flagstone paving which would allow the visitor to circumnavigate the Monument base. Immediately against the foundation is a planting bed which provides screening of the foundation of the Monument.
To the east of the Monument is a series of three plots of plant material which are laid out along another flagstone walkway which runs directly from the Monument towards the property line. The area south of the walk that is designated as lawn is surrounded with plant material on three sides, and a row of small ornamental trees along the flagstone walk on the northern edge.
The remainder of the Monument area is indicated to be heavily vegetated as it is today, although there is a walkway with steps climbing down the ravine at the furthest southern edge of the Monument Hill. Presently two cannons are found at the entranceway to the Monument. The drawing does not contain any indication of cannons at the base of the Monument.
8.1 Historic Photos
By a comparison of the historic document, the Dunington-Grubb illustrative sketch and the following historic photos in the collection at Battlefield Museum, it is possible to understand how much of the original design was implemented, what changes were made in the very early years and what removals and additions were made in subsequent years particularly by the Niagara Parks Commission.
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Figure 55 Gage House looking north. City of Hamilton Special Collections Figure 55 Figure 55 is one of the earliest images of the implemented Dunington-Grubb landscape. It is a close up of Gage House clearly showing the extensive verandah railings and gates as well as the chairs set out along the verandah to welcome visitors. It shows a recently planted deciduous hedge around the centre courtyard, the centre walkway is not yet finished with its flagstone top course, and the west terrace and shrub beds on the slope are present.
At the corner of the entrance drive and King Street West are new plantings in a large shrub bed with mature shrubs and individual trees incorporated into the planting design.
This photo pre-dates the construction of the east addition on the house. The wider rural context of Stoney Creek is shown with extensive orchards and individual elm trees along the distant horizon.
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Figure 56 Gage House and Monument Hill looking south. National Archives of Canada Figure 56 Figure 56 is an image looking south from Battlefield Creek and captures the recently installed landscape at Gage House and Monument Hill. This photo is undated but is prior to 1926 when the east addition was added to the house.
At Gage House the formal terraces and two sets of stairs leading from the main door are clearly evident. Curvilinear and sculpted planting beds are shown wrapping around the formal terraces. The verandah extends along the western and northern side of the house. The front section is covered with vines at the north door.
An interesting aspect of the design evident in this photo is the openness along the creek corridor with all of the vegetation except for two mature trees removed on the eastern side. Also, there are some specimen shrubs along the curvilinear driveway
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that leads to Monument Hill, with two cannons placed importantly at its base.
The zig-zag ramps are clearly shown on Monument Hill with an indication of shrub planting between them. One specimen tree has been retained on the hill.
Figure 57 Gage House and Monument Hill looking south. National Archives of Canada
Figure 57 Figure 57 is a similar view as Figure 56 showing a maturing of the shrub beds that line the formal terraces. The stairs that lead down from the front porch now connect to the walkway as shown on the Dunington-Grubb sketch.
Monument Hill in a manner similar to Figure 56 has no vegetation on its west face and on the ramp slopes there are individual specimen evergreen shrubs accenting the change in grade.
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Figure 58 View from Monument Hill looking north down at the Arrival Courtyard and Gage House. National Archives of Canada
Figure 58 One of the most important and earliest photos of the Dunington- Grubb landscape is the above photo from the National Archives. This photo is very significant because it shows the house with verandahs on the west and south sides but there is no addition on the east side. The addition was added for caretakers in the mid- 1920’s. Even though the drawing of the Dunington-Grubb plan was dated 1920, it does indicate that plans were already in place for an addition to the house since they are shown on their design.
It is evident that the arrival court has been constructed and is very similar in many ways to the proposed design. It does show a main central walkway with seven specimen evergreen trees in a formal alignment along either side. It further shows a deciduous hedge around the perimeter of the arrival courtyard. One major
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change from the water colour sketch plan is found at the northern end of the arrival court. The circular walkway on axis with the centre walk is not evident. It is possible, for cost saving reasons, that this particular feature was deleted with intent to constructing it at a later date.
The flagstone walkways leading up to the Monument are in place and it is also possible in this photo to see the stone and topsoil surfacing on the ramps that would be expected when they were initially created on the slope. Plant material is evident on either side of the central walkway on the hill and consisting of deciduous shrubs and grasses. It appears to reveal low boxwood hedging immediately along the ramps.
If one looks at the area on the Dunington-Grubb plan designated “kitchen garden” and “yard” on the east side of the house and compares it with the same area of Figure 58, one can see new plantings defining an area of cultivated soil. On the western end of the house the main walkway leads along the edge of the verandah with an east/west walkway heading out towards a flagpole. Further, there is a planting bed at the curve in the driveway as it enters into the arrival court and additional shrub plantings on the northeast terrace.
Referring back to Figure 58, the Battlefield Creek corridor is tree lined and the area along the King Street West frontage has been planted with small trees and shrubs in curvilinear beds which are consistent with the Dunington-Grubb plan.
There is no separate parking area within the arrival courtyard and cars are parked along the side of the driveway. Also, there is low ornamental planting along the base of the verandah railing on the south frontage.
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Figure 59 View from Monument Hill. National Archives of Canada
Figure 59 Figure 59 is a rare view in that it is taken from the top of the hill from an early period predating the 1926 edition. It shows the top edge of the planted slope covered with deciduous shrubs as well as the lawn turf area around the cannon installation. The context for Battlefield Park at this time is rural farm land and orchards.
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Figure 60 The Arrival Court and Gage House looking north. National Archives of Canada
Figure 60 Figure 60 is a later version of Figure 58 and it shows the hedging around the forecourt. The evergreen trees to the west of the house have matured. The caretaker’s addition on the east side of Gage house has been constructed, the kitchen garden area is shown as planted, and the rural setting north of King Street West is evident.
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Figure 61 View of the Arrival Court and Gage House looking north. City of Hamilton Archives Figure 61 Figure 61, photo taken from Monument Hill dated 1959, is a view of the mature Dunington-Grubb landscape. The caretaker’s addition is evident. The specimen evergreens along either side of the central walkway have matured as has the hedge around the perimeter. The site is now framed by mature evergreen trees, spruce on the east, pines on the west side, and the flowering shrubbery on the terraces to the west of the house. Similarly, the vegetation on either side of the main walkway leading up Monument Hill has also matured.
In contrast to the earlier rural context shown in Figure 59 it is now possible to see development on the horizon as the back drop to the house.
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Figure 62 Gage House looking north. National Archives of Canada Figure 62 This photo shows how the Niagara Parks Commission added bollards instead of the hedge around the edge of the driveway and added a new walkway across the arrival courtyard.
The value of this collection of historic photos shows the evolution of the site from the earliest period from the 1910 period with the construction of the Monument within the rural landscape of Gage Farm to the subsequent development in the 1920’s of the formal landscape of Howard and Lorrie Dunington-Grubb.
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Figure 63 Monument Hill. City of Hamilton Special Collections
Figure 63 Figure 63 dates from the Niagara Parks Commission period (1962-1989). It confirms that the east /west walk was added across the centre courtyard during this time. The evergreen shrubs which line the centre walkway have matured and the ramps and vegetation on the slopes to Monument Hill have been removed. Only a line of cedar specimen trees remain which focus the view to the top of the hill.
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9.0 Public and Agency Consultation
On May 5, 2009, a public community meeting was held at “Grandview” to review the Master Plan. The meeting was attended by various members of the community specifically members of the re-enactors group, long time residents of Stoney Creek, three Ward Councillors, and staff from various City
Figure 64 departments. Re-enactment of the Battle of Stoney Creek. The options for the Master Plan were presented and discussed and three key issues were identified and reviewed with those present. These key issues included the accommodation of the annual re-enactment event, the location of the new interpretive centre, and the exterior design of the new interpretive centre.
The first issue was the accommodation of the annual re-
Figure 65 enactment event which brings several thousand people to Observers of the Re-enactment. Battlefield Park to both re-enact the Battle of Stoney Creek and enjoy planned and informal events. Their concern was that the location of the interpretive centre and the parking lot would limit their activities. Subsequently, members of the re-enactors group provided space requirements to accommodate the different types of camps and market areas that are part of the re-enactment weekend. A total of 2.6 hectares (6.3 acres) of space was identified by the group as their minimum requirement.
Figure 66 Re-enactors market area. The Master Plan identifies an area that was previously underutilized to accommodate the re-enactor activities. The area is located south of the proposed parking lot where there is approximately 1.9 hectares (4.7 acres) of meadow and lawn available for re-enacting activities. This is in addition to the north lawn area and the area around “Grandview” and Gage House, which is also part of the Re-enactment set-up, thus creating a total available space for public programming such as for the Re- enactment of 4.5 hectares (11 acres).
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The amount of open space in the Park that is available can accommodate re-enactment events at their current sizes. However, the location of these events will require planning in order to take advantage of this open space, the circulation routes, and parking.
The proposed construction of a berm along Centennial Parkway South as part of regrading to accommodate the re-enactor events was a welcomed suggestion. It would allow an opportunity for observers to use the berm as an informal seating position from which to view the Battle re-enactment, in addition to its noise attenuating properties.
The primary recommendation regarding the re-enactment was that staff will continue to work with the group to ensure that this event is accommodated within the Park. It is anticipated that the re-enactment in the year 2013 will be a very popular event and all alternatives will be investigated including the use of off-site locations to accommodate overflow parking needs.
The second issue that was raised at the public meeting was the location for the new interpretative centre. When it was discussed that the buildings at 95 and 99 King Street West would be removed, there was a suggestion that the centre be placed along King Street West as a prominent feature that the visitor would see prior to entering the site.
Because of its desired size, the new 1860 square metre (20,000 square feet) interpretive centre (see Section 2.4) would require that the majority of space gained with the demolition of the two residences would be converted to a single building. The parking lot would still be accommodated south of “Grandview” and quite a distance from the new centre.
Several alternative layout plans had been prepared and reviewed by staff as part of the preliminary investigation for the
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new centre. See Figures 10-14, Pages 23-27. Based on these reviews staff determined which concepts met the program requirements. A footprint for a one storey centre and its location located south of “Grandview” was selected as the preferred option.
The third item raised at the public meeting was the issue of the exterior design of the new centre. Many in the audience suggested that the new centre should mirror in form and materials the historic buildings already on site. The plans that have been prepared to date have not explored exterior materials, style or form and have only investigated an internal layout for all the activity rooms, and the necessary corridors and accessory spaces to link them. However it was raised at the meeting that the Standards and Guidelines for the Conservation of Historic Places in Canada contain standards that relate to the appropriate approach when adding new design or new facilities within a historic context.
“Conserve the heritage value and character-defining elements when creating any new additions to a historic place or any related new construction. Make the new work physically and visually compatible with, subordinate to and distinguishable from the historic place.” Parks Canada Standards and Guidelines for the Conservation of Historic Places in Canada 2003
In general the standard expresses the principle that new additions should be clearly definable and secondary to the original fabric so that the visitor is not confused as to time period. The intent is that new design complements in a harmonious and sympathetic way to the original heritage fabric.
The Master Plan recommendation, based on the input of the meeting, is that as further detailed design work for the centre is undertaken, consideration should be given to ensuring that its exterior form does not overwhelm “Grandview” and that it is
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sited in such a way that pedestrian links are readily available between the parking lot, the interpretative centre, “Grandview”, the new barn orientation area, and the walkway system that leads to Gage House and the Monument.
10.0 Cultural Heritage Landscape Issues and Recommendations
As Battlefield Park has evolved over the years from the aboriginal era, the Gage Farm era, the decorative commemorative landscape of the 1920’s, the active recreational activities in the City of Stoney Creek and the Niagara Parks Commission era, to the current and recent concentration of historically significant buildings and uses on the site.
10.1 Conservation and Appropriate Uses
As Battlefield Park has grown from a neighbourhood recreation centre to a regional and national commemoration site, many of the activities that previously were appropriate are no longer considered suitable for the property.
While the site will continue to remain open and available to the public to enjoy with passive recreational activities for dog walking, casual picnicking and strolling, the long term goal is to ensure that the interpretive and educational features of the site are presented to the public. Activities such as tobogganing are not compatible with the conservation of a National Historic Site and Battlefield and will continue to be discouraged.
The configuration of the Park to accommodate the annual re- enactment of the Battle of Stoney Creek will be balanced with the conservation of the significant cultural heritage landscape.
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10.2 Parking
As part of the recommendations of the Master Plans parking requirements have been evaluated. At present time, parking is only provided in the gravel parking lot with a limited capacity of approximately 100 cars. By reducing the number of large events that come to the site not associated with museum activities, this will reduce the need to provide parking for a group of people on site that are not participating in scheduled activities.
As shown on the Site Development Master Plan (Figure 67, Page 109), there has been accommodation and planning for bus parking to ensure that for special events the maximum amount of space be used for activities and not for over-flow parking.
10.3 Maintenance Yard
One of the items that was thoroughly investigated and subjected to a great deal of discussion is the location of the maintenance yard. Alternative locations were considered but it was determined that it is most feasible to retain the maintenance activities on site for economical and logistical reasons. Refer to Figure 68 for the proposed maintenance yard location.
10.4 King Street West Frontage
The area along King Street West has been cleared with the removal of the remaining two buildings at 95 and 99 King Street West. This has created an open space view from King Street West to “Grandview”. There are some mature trees that are associated with the residential properties that constrain the view and selective removal of these trees is recommended. These trees are not part of the historic tree collection and in fact represent species popular in the 1950’s and 1960’s which are no longer recommended, such as Norway Maple. See Figure 41, Page 55.
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11.0 Summary of Master Plan Recommendations
The early Master Plan completed by Taylor Hazell Architects Ltd. in 1993, recommends the addition of a new interpretive centre and this was endorsed by the former City of Stoney Creek’s City Council. This Master Plan recommends an updated footprint for the interpretive centre based on information provided by McCallum Sather Architects (see Section 2.4) and associated parking. Other key recommendations of this report include:
the relocation and restoration of the barn to convert it to museum programming space as an orientation area; the removal of the concession / washroom building; the salvage and relocation of the picnic shelter section; the construction of a new parks maintenance building and screened storage yard; the restoration of the Dunington-Grubb commemorative landscape on the east side of the Park; new trails, a pedestrian bridge, and accessibility upgrades; new public art and landscape improvements particularly along King Street West; new parking facility on west side of Park; the removal of parking on the east side and the provision of barrier free parking and a drop off area; the creation of a vegetated berm along Centennial Parkway South; and to undertake an archaeological site management plan to ensure that the management of all remaining areas of archaeological potential and identified archaeological resources are integrated into all Park activities entailing future soil disruption.
Refer to the Site Development Master Plan (Figure 67, 68, and 69, Pages 109-111) illustrating these recommendations.
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The proposed plans include:
An update to the interpretive centre plans included in the 1993 Master Plan, new purposes and site for the barn, and an assessment of the site and function of the picnic shelter concession building; An accessible pedestrian circulation route which links the various parts of the site and which is part of an overall interpretation plan linking Gage House, the Monument, “Grandview”, the barn, and the new interpretive centre; and A vehicular circulation route and parking that accommodates fire and emergency vehicles, staff parking, public parking, and buses for daily use and special events.
The Master Plan recommends that the interpretative centre be placed south of “Grandview” so there is a close connection between the two buildings and the parking lot can be located immediately south of the new centre for convenience.
12.0 Conclusions: War of 1812 Commemoration
There are many historic sites in Southern Ontario that contribute to the portrayal and commemoration of the War of 1812 in Niagara, Fort Erie, and Hamilton.
Both Battlefield Park and Dundurn National Historic Site on Burlington Heights in Hamilton were involved in the War of 1812. The British built defense works at Dundurn in anticipation of a major battle expected to take place at the site. Instead, they were called to fight the American invaders at Stoney Creek. There are still remnants of the defense embankments constructed at Dundurn and Hamilton Cemetery.
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Many of the historic sites from Niagara to York (Toronto) that are associated with the War of 1812 are planning commemorations for the 200th anniversary in 2012 -14.
The Bicentennial of the War of 1812-14 presents a unique opportunity for new cultural tourism activities based on a heritage route linking key figures and locations. Associated with the War of 1812 throughout Southern Ontario, Battlefield Park will be a key component of the route.
The 2010 Master Plan recommendations are intended to address the significance of the property by detailing conservation activities and improved interpretative features of both the original Battle in 1813, its commemoration in 1913, and the 1920 Dunington Grubb City Beautiful style landscape.
13.0 List of Master Plan Drawings
Site Development Master Plan - Figure 67 West Side Site Development Plan - Figure 68 East Side Site Development Plan - Figure 69
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Figure 67 Site Development Master Plan
109 Battlefield Park National Historic Site Master Plan January 2011
Figure 68 West Side Site Development Plan 110 Battlefield Park National Historic Site Master Plan January 2011
Figure 69 East Side Site Development Plan
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14.0 References 14.1 Wendy Shearer Landscape Architect a division of MHBC Planning
All-Tech Services Archaeological Resource Management. Archeological Assessment Stoney Creek Battlefield Monument Restoration Program, 1993
Historic Horizon Inc. Battlefield House (AhGw-100) 1995 Archaeological Project Executive Summary, 1996
Historic Horizon Inc. Battlefield Park NHS - James Gage Store Assessment, Part Lot 26, Concession 4, former Saltfleet Twp., City of Hamilton (Stoney Creek) Report of Stage 1- 3 Archaeological Assessment
Murison, Tom. Battlefield Park, Stoney Creek – A Reconstruction c. 1830, 2007
Phillip Goldsmith and Company Ltd. Architects. The Jackson House Feasibility Study, 2006
Sims, Craig. Battlefield House Museum (Gage House) & Park NHS, Stoney Creek Ontario Historic Structures Report, 2006
Taylor Hazell Architects Ltd. Battlefield Master Plan Study for the City of Stoney Creek, 1993
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14.2 Dougan and Associates Ecological Consulting and Design
BSC (Bird Studies Canada). 2003. Marsh Monitoring Program - Training Kit and Instructions for Surveying Marsh Birds, Amphibians and their Habitats. 2003 Edition. 40 pages. Published by Birds Studies Canada in cooperation with Environment Canada and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. March 2003.
COSEWIC (Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada). 2009. COSEWIC Species Assessments (detailed version), August2009.http://www.cosewic.gc.ca/rpts/Detailed_ Species_ Assessments_e.html
Curry, B. 2003. The Breeding Birds of Hamilton, Ontario. In J.K. Dwyer (compiler). Nature Counts Projects: Hamilton Natural Areas Inventory 2003 – Species Checklists. Pp. 6- 1 to 6-46.
Curry, B. 2006. Birds of Hamilton and surrounding areas: including all or parts of Brant, Halton, Haldimand, Niagara, Norfolk, Peel, Waterloo and Wellington. Robert Curry and the Hamilton Naturalists’ Club.
Dwyer, J.K. (ed.) 2003. Nature Counts Project: Hamilton Natural Areas Inventory 2003 – Site Summaries and Species Checklists.
Goodban, A. G. 2003. The Vascular Plants of Hamilton, Ontario. In: Dwyer, J. (ed.) Nature Counts Project, Hamilton Natural Areas Inventory. Species Checklists. Prepared for Hamilton Naturalists’ Club.
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Heagy, A.E. (ed.) 1993. Hamilton-Wentworth Natural Areas Inventory. Volume II: Site Summaries. Hamilton Naturalists’ Club, Hamilton, Ontario. 352 pp.
Heagy, A.E. (ed.) 1995 Hamilton-Wentworth Natural Areas Inventory. Volume I: Species Checklists. Hamilton Naturalists’ Club, Hamilton, Ontario.
Lamond, W.G. and B. Duncan, 2003. The Herpetofauna of Hamilton, Ontario. pp. 5–1 to 5–14 In: J.K. Dwyer (Ed.) Nature Counts Project: Hamilton Natural Areas Inventory 2003 - Species Checklists. Hamilton Naturalists’ Club, Hamilton, Ontario. 282 pp.
Lee, H.T., W.D. Bakowsky, J. Riley, J. Bowles, M. Puddister, P.Ulhig, and S. McMurray. 1998. Ecological Land Classification for Southern Ontario: First Approximation and its Application. Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources, Southcentral Science Section, Science Development and Transfer Branch. SCSS Field Guide FG- 02.)
Newmaster, S.G., A. Lehela, P.W.C. Uhlig, S. McMurray and M.J. Oldham 1998. Ontario Plant List. OMNR, OFRI, Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, Forest Research Information Paper No. 123, 550 pp. + appendices.
Newmaster, S.G. and S. Ragupathy. 2005. Flora Ontario – Integrated Botanical Information System (FOIBIS), Phase I. University of Guelph, Canada. Available at: http://www.uoguelph.ca/foibis/
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NHIC (Natural Heritage Information Centre). 2009. NHIC Geographic Query of Significant Species and Significant Natural Areas. http://nhic.mnr.gov.on.ca/MNR/nhic/queries/geographic .cfm
Oldham, M.J. 1999. Natural Heritage Resources of Ontario: Rare Vascular Plants. Third Edition. Natural Heritage Information Centre, Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources, Peterborough, Ontario.54pages. http://www.mnr.gov.on.ca/MNR/nhic/species/rarevascul ar.pdf
OBBA (Ontario Breeding Bird Atlas). 2001. Guide for Participants. Atlas Management Board, Federation of Ontario Naturalists, Don Mills. 34pp.
OMNR (Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources). 1999. Natural Heritage Reference Manual. For Policy 2.3 of the Provincial Policy Statement - Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources – June1999.http://www.mnr.gov.on.ca/MNR/pubs/nat_he ritage_manual.pdf
OMNR (Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources). 2000. Significant Wildlife Habitat Technical Guide. 151 pp.
OMNR (Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources). 2006. Species at Risk in Ontario List. (Issued by Ontario Ministry of Resources’ Species at Risk Section., June 30, 2006) Available: http://www.mnr. gov.on.ca/mnr/speciesatrisk/SARO_List_june2006.pdf
OPIF (Ontario Partners in Flight). 2006. Ontario Landbird Conservation Plan: Lower Great Lakes/St. Lawrence Plain (North American Bird Conservation Region 13), Priorities,
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Objectives and Recommended Actions. Environment Canada/Ministry of Natural Resources. Draft. February 2006. http://www.bsc-eoc.org/PIF/PIFOntario.html
Provincial Policy Statement. 2005. Available: http://www.mah.gov.on.ca/Asset1421.aspx
Read, P. 2007. Carolina Wren, pp. 412-413 in Cadman, M.D., D.A. Sutherland, G.G. Beck, D. Lepage, and A.R. Couturier, eds. Atlas of the Breeding Birds of Ontario, 2001 – 2005. Bird Studies Canada, Environment Canada, Ontario Field Ornithologists, Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources, and Ontario Nature, Toronto, xxii + 706 pp.
Vlasman, K. 2005. Atlas of the Mammals of Hamilton. Hamilton Naturalists’ Club and the Hamilton Conservation Authority. 135 pages.
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14.3 List of Figures
Figure 1 Gage House and Monument under construction, pg 4 Smith’s Knoll and Stoney Creek Village Figure 2 “Stoney Creek Monument Unveiled on pg 4 June 6, 1913 the 100th anniversary of the Battle” Figure 3 “Unveiling of Stoney Creek Monument by pg 4 Queen Mary June 6, 1913” Figure 4 Battlefield Park National Historic Site Regional pg 5 Context Figure 5 Battlefield Park National Historic Site Existing pg 6 Conditions Figure 6 Battlefield - Stoney Creek pg 7 Figure 7 Site Development Master Plan pg 13 Figure 8 American Headquarters June 5, 1813 pg 15 Figure 9 1954 Aerial Photo pg 16 Figure 10 SK1 Interpretive Centre pg 23 Figure 11 SK2 Interpretive Centre pg 24 Figure 12 SK3 Interpretive Centre pg 25 Figure 13 SK4 Interpretive Centre pg 26 Figure 14 SK5 Interpretive Centre pg 27 Figure 15 Option 1A (WEST) 2 Storey Building pg 28 Figure 16 Option 1B (WEST) 1 Storey Building – pg 29 Preferred Option Figure 17 Niagara Escarpment Parks and Open Space pg 33 System Park Zoning Plan Figure 18 Development Area #1 Public Art Zone pg 41 Figure 19 Development Area #2 and #3 pg 41 Interpretive Centre and Proposed Works Yard Location Figure 20 Stoney Creek Battlefield House pg 46 Figure 21 View of Gage House and Monument Hill looking south pg 47 Figure 22 Gage House looking north pg 47 Figure 23 Gage House looking north pg 48 Figure 24 Gage House looking north pg 48 Figure 25 Gage House and Barn looking north pg 48 Figure 26 Gage House looking north-west pg 49
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Figure 27 Gage House looking east pg 49 Figure 28 Gage House looking south-east pg 49 Figure 29 Gage House looking north pg 50 Figure 30 March 18, 2010 “Grandview” looking south pg 51 Figure 31 Smith’s Knoll pg 52 Figure 32 View from Smith’s Knoll pg 52 Figure 33 Front lawn of Gage House pg 53 Figure 34 Picket lined entrance lane pg 53 Figure 35 Wayfinding pg 53 Figure 36 Gravel parking lot pg 53 Figure 37 Wooden bridge pg 54 Figure 38 Barn pg 54 Figure 39 Remnants of orchards pg 54 Figure 40 West of the creek pg 54 Figure 41 Corner of Centennial Parkway South pg 55 and King Street West Figure 42 Park Pavilion pg 55 Figure 43 Meadow pg 55 Figure 44 The TH&B Railway pg 55 Figure 45 Public access at Battlefield Drive pg 56 Figure 46 East property line pg 56 Figure 47 Informal trails pg 56 Figure 48 Regional Flood Line Map – pg 59 Hamilton Conservation Authority Figure 49 Vegetation Resources pg 74 Figure 50 Wildlife Resources pg 77 Figure 51 Natural Cover and Significant Features pg 78 Figure 52 Dunington-Grubb Sketch Plan for pg 83 Battlefield Park 1920 Figure 52A Enlargement of Gage House Landscape pg 84 Figure 52B Enlargement of Monument Hill Landscape pg 85 Figure 53 July 25, 1959 View of Monument Hill pg 87 Figure 54 View of Monument Hill and Arrival Courtyard pg 88 Figure 55 Gage House looking north pg 91 Figure 56 Gage House and Monument Hill looking south pg 92 Figure 57 Gage House and Monument Hill looking south pg 93
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Figure 58 View from Monument Hill looking north pg 94 Figure 59 View from Monument Hill pg 96 Figure 60 The Arrival Court and Gage House looking north pg 97 Figure 61 View of Arrival Court and Gage House looking north pg 98 Figure 62 Gage House looking north pg 99 Figure 63 Monument Hill pg 100 Figure 64 Re-enactment of the Battle of Stoney Creek pg 101 Figure 65 Observers of the Re-enactment pg 101 Figure 66 Re-enactors market area pg 101
119 Appendix A
The Battle of Stoney Creek National Historic Site of Canada Commemorative Integrity Statement
The Battle of Stoney Creek
national historic site of canada
Commemorative Integrity Statement
July, 2002
1.0 INTRODUCTION
1.1 Overview
The Battle of Stoney Creek National Historic Site of Canada is located in the former City of Stoney Creek now the City of Hamilton, Ontario. The national historic site consists of three parcels of land in close proximity to one another. All three properties are administered by the City of Hamilton. The main property, locally known as Battlefield Park, is 13.7 ha. (34 acres) in size and is located at the intersection of Centennial Parkway (highway 20) and King St. formerly Highway 8. The national historic site also includes Smith's Knoll, located on the north side of King St. 50 metres east of Battlefield Park, and the old Stoney Creek Cemetery, located on the south side of King St. 100 metres west of Battlefield Park. While a large portion of the battlefield north of Battlefield Park has been lost to development, these three remaining sites encompass the area that was crucial to the successful outcome of the battle. The accompanying map identifies the location of these sites, the designated place and the general location of the Battle of Stoney Creek. The site of the Battle of Stoney Creek came to the attention of the Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada a number of times before and after World War II, and in 1960 it was formally declared to be of national historic significance. Battlefield Park and the Smith’s Knoll Monument commemorate the important victory of the British over the Americans on June 6th 1813 thereby stopping the enemy advance towards York. The Park was established by the Women’s Wentworth Historical Society in 1899 and the Stoney Creek Monument was subsequently erected and unveiled on June 6th 1913. The small park, which included the Gage House, and the monument was administered by the Society until 1963 when it transferred the property to the Niagara Parks Commission which enlarged it and subsequently transferred ownership to the City of Stoney Creek in 1988. The site is now owned by the City of Hamilton. Smith’s Knoll is the site of a crucial engagement of the battle and the burial of numerous British and American casualties. A monument was erected on the site in 1909 to commemorate the event and the burial. The old Stoney Creek Cemetery is the site of the British initial contact with the American sentries. This cemetery, now closed, contains a memorial to the officers who led the British troops into the battle, and the scout who warned the British of the location of the American camp.
1.2 National Historic Sites Objectives
Under the national historic sites program Parks Canada has the responsibility: • To foster knowledge and appreciation of Canada's past through a national program of historical commemoration. • To ensure the commemorative integrity of national historic sites by protecting and presenting them for the benefit, education and enjoyment of this and future generations, in a manner that respects the significant and irreplaceable legacy represented by these places and their associated resources. • To encourage and support owners of national historic sites in their efforts to ensure commemorative integrity.
THE BATTLE OF STONEY CREEK NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE OF CANADA - Commemorative Integrity Statement page 1 1.3 Commemorative Integrity
Commemorative integrity describes the health and wholeness of a national historic site. A national historic site possesses commemorative integrity when: • the resources directly related to the reasons for designation as a national historic site are not impaired or under threat, • the reasons for designation as a national historic site are effectively communicated to the public, and • the site’s heritage values (including those not related to designation as a national historic site) are respected by all whose decisions or actions affect the site. A Commemorative Integrity Statement is a document which identifies what is meant by commemorative integrity at a particular national historic site. It provides a baseline for planning, managing, operations, reporting and taking remedial action. The document is divided into six parts: 1. Introduction 2. Designation and context 3. Resources directly related to the reasons for designation as a national historic site - This section of the CIS identifies the resources that relate directly to the site’s national historic significance. It also describes the historic values of these resources, which can be symbolic as well as physical. These values must be safeguarded and communicated. The CIS provides guidance, through objectives, about the meaning of “not impaired or under threat” in the context of the site. 4. Reasons for national historic significance - This section of the CIS conveys the reasons for the site’s designation, as well as any additional essential information required to ensure their understanding. It provides guidance through objectives, on integrity in presentation and effective communication with audiences. 5. Heritage values: This section of the CIS covers heritage resources messages and values that are not related to national historic significance. Objectives provide guidance on the management of these. Why prepare a CIS?
A Commemorative Integrity Statement guides site management by: 1. Identifying what is most important about a site relative to its national designation; 1. Ensuring that there is a focus on the “whole” and not just the individual resources; 2. Enunciating a set of heritage values and objectives which can be used in analyzing and evaluating the impact of development proposals within or nearby and which may have impact on the national historic site; 3. Providing the basis for design guidelines for development which may take place within or nearby and which may have an impact on the national historic site; 4. Giving direction on heritage messages for interpretation plans and programs; and 5. Providing the foundation for reporting to Canadians on the state of national historic sites.
page 2 THE BATTLE OF STONEY CREEK NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE OF CANADA - Commemorative Integrity Statement 1.4 Cultural Resource Management
Cultural resources are places or human works that have been determined to have human value. Cultural resources include those directly related to the reasons for the site’s national significance and those not directly related but possessing historic value. Cultural resource management is an integrated and holistic approach to the management of cultural resources. It applies to all activities that affect cultural resources, including the care taken of these resources and the promotion of public understanding and enjoyment of them. The objective is to manage cultural resources in accordance with the principles of value, public benefit, understanding, respect and integrity. The Cultural Resource Management Policy is the basis for management of cultural resources by Parks Canada. Other owners of national historic sites are encouraged to use the Policy. 2.0 DESIGNATION AND HISTORICAL CONTEXT
2.1 Designation
The Battle of Stoney Creek first came to the attention of the Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada in 1938 when a request was made by the Women’s Wentworth Historical Society for the Government of Canada to assume ownership of the Stoney Creek Monument. This led to a recommendation by the Board in 1947 that the federal government assume ownership of the Stoney Creek Monument as a national historic site. This was accordingly done in 1949 when the property was transferred from the Wentworth Women’s Historical Society to the Crown on the understanding that the land is a national historic site. In June 1960, the site again came to the attention of the HSMBC owing to the threat of residential development to the integrity of the battlefield area. The following are the minutes of that meeting: “That the Board recommend that the Battle of Stoney Creek be commemorated by the establishment of the Battlefield area as a national symbol by taking advantage of the existing facilities in the area and extending them as may be found necessary, the whole to form a comprehensive unit of monuments, buildings, and cemetery together with suitable surrounding land; That the justification for the above recommendation lies in the undoubted national historic importance of the military engagement that took place there and in the urgent need to develop the area imaginatively in view of imminent encroachment” Clearly the reason for designation is as a result of the importance of the battle to the successful outcome of the War of 1812. Appendix A provides a summary of the Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada minutes regarding the site. Appendix B is the Agenda Paper 1960- 21 used by the Board in 1960 to inform its deliberations.
2.2 Commemorative Intent
Commemorative intent refers specifically to the reasons for a site’s national significance, as determined by the Ministerially-approved recommendations of the Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada. A site’s CIS contains a Statement of Commemorative Intent (SOCI) which provides the answer to the question - when and for what reason was this site designated by the Minister responsible for the Historic Sites and Monuments Act as being of national historic significance?
THE BATTLE OF STONEY CREEK NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE OF CANADA - Commemorative Integrity Statement page 3 some 700 men of the 8th and 49th Regiments, he marched from Burlington Heights towards Stoney Creek. According to local tradition, the British learned the pass word from a resident and succeeded in capturing the American advanced picquets stationed in the Methodist church at the old Stoney Creek Cemetery, preventing an alarm being sounded for the main body a few hundred yards to the rear. The British line divided into two wings and charged the American camp. Amidst heavy artillery and musket fire, the British left under Major Plenderleath stormed the knoll where the American field artillery was positioned, captured four of the six guns and took two generals and a number of field officers prisoner. In the confusion, the Americans scattered while the British withdrew before daylight revealed the small size of their force. When the Americans discovered their senior officers and guns missing, they decided to retreat to Forty Mile Creek to await reinforcements. Instead, after reaching Forty Mile Creek, they continued their march back to the safe confines of Fort George. By December 1813, the Americans had abandoned even this foothold and retreated across the Niagara River. Later that month, in a surprise night attack on Fort Niagara, the British captured the sentries, stormed the fort and captured the post. For the duration of the war, American troops never again threatened to sweep across the Niagara Peninsula. In the years immediately after the war, there was little interest in commemorating the events of 1812-1814. However, by the end of the century, patriotic societies anxious to promote the British imperial connection and Loyalist traditions, were urging the government to erect suitable memorials at places such as Lundy’s Lane, Crysler’s Farm and Stoney Creek The Wentworth Women’s Historical Society, under the leadership of Sara Calder, went one step further. They purchased the home and some property of James Gage and opened Battlefield Park in an elaborate ceremony in October 1899. In support of this local initiative, the federal government financed construction of an elaborate, Gothic revival tower patterned after the monument to Lord Nelson in Edinburgh. Built of local materials, the monument was completed in 1913 and located on the high ground behind the Gage House thus affording a view of the entire battlefield. A simple stone monument was placed on Smith’s Knoll Opening Ceremonies, June, 1913. where the American guns were captured and both British and American casualties from the battle were buried. This monument was erected by the County of Wentworth Veteran’s Association in 1909 after a long and acrimonious battle with the Wentworth Women’s Historical Society over the location and scale of a memorial.
page 5 THE BATTLE OF STONEY CREEK NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE OF CANADA - Commemorative Integrity Statement presenting the house as it would have been to the 1935 period. The park is used by the community for a variety of open space activities. Smith’s Knoll was established as a memorial site in 1908 with the erection of a commemorative stone monument, and location of human remains from the battle. The site was extensively rehabilitated in 2000 to provide for better public access and appearance of the monument. Archaeological investigations were carried out and the human remains were re-interred in a granite tomb.
Smith’s Knoll monument soon after completion.
The Stoney Creek Cemetery was established as a Methodist burial ground around 1800. It is a typical rural Ontario cemetery with a wide range of head stones and a memorial to the British officers involved on the battle. The cemetery is now closed and is maintained by the Hamilton Cemetery Board. The historic values of the designated place are: • the Stoney Creek Battlefield is the site of a pivotal battle in the War of 1812. • the survival of three critical points in the battle: Smith’s Knoll, the Stoney Creek Cemetery and the area around the Gage house, where crucial military engagements took place. • the survival of the view of the entire battlefield area particularly from the Stoney Creek Monument • that Smith’s Knoll is the site of the capture of American artillery which was a crucial aspect of the battle for the high ground, and the site of the capture of the American officers Chandler and Windler thereby contributing to a British victory • the survival of vestiges of the original terrain largely unaltered, those being the ridge at Smith’s Knoll, the Stoney Creek Cemetery, Battlefield Creek, and the open area in front of Gage House • the survival of King St. in its original location as the route used by the British march to battle from their camp at Burlington Heights. page 7 THE BATTLE OF STONEY CREEK NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE OF CANADA - Commemorative Integrity Statement
Stoney Creek Monument The structure is a tall, castellated tower 30.5 metres high situated on a terrace overlooking the battlefield. It consists of two parts, a square base and an octagonal tapering tower with a battlement crown. The tower was designed by a prominent local architect Edward Rastrick, built of Canadian material and inspired by the Nelson Monument in Edinburgh, Scotland. The architectural style, scale and detailing are of the late medieval or Tudor Gothic Revival, favoured for its picturesque appearance and romantic associations with the past. The monument was intended to be the largest of the series of monuments built at the time to commemorate engagements of the War of 1812. Its prominent location, scale, and design reflects the importance that was placed on the battle, and is a tangible expression of the loyalist tradition which reached its peak in the late 19th century.
The driving force behind the monument Stoney Creek Monument. was Sara Calder and the Women’s Wentworth Historical Society. The Society purchased the Gage House in 1899 and proceeded to raise funds for the construction of the monument which was finished in 1913. Appendix C, Agenda Paper OB-7, Stoney Creek Monument fully describes its architecture and historical context. The historic values of the Stoney Creek Monument are: • its commemoration of the Battle of Stoney Creek, and the lives that were lost on both sides during the battle • the unobstructed views from the tower over the battlefield • its position as the focal point of Battlefield Park • its location as a prominent landmark thus allowing the tower to be seen from a distance • the use of Canadian materials in keeping with the patriotic sentiments behind its construction • that it is the most prominent of the monuments built between 1895 and 1919 commemorating the War of 1812. • that it symbolizes the loyalty to the British crown through the design of the structure in the Tudor Gothic revival style. • the survival of original fabric, design intent and form • that it is an early example of reinforced concrete construction
page 9 THE BATTLE OF STONEY CREEK NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE OF CANADA - Commemorative Integrity Statement • that it commemorates the British officers, Gage, and Billy Green through shields on the exterior of the building • the 2 large stone plaques on the exterior the monument commemorating the dedication ceremony and of the battle. Smith’s Knoll Monument The Smith’s Knoll monument is a 4 metre high truncated pyramid constructed of fieldstone. On the south face of the monument , the stonework is cut and laid in such a fashion that it depicts the Union Jack. The monument is capped with a limestone slab which supports a carved sandstone lion. In addition to the monument, the site contains 6 cannons, two plaques commemorating the British and American soldiers who were buried on the Knoll and a crypt in which the excavated remains have been re-interred. The historic values of the Smith’s Smith’s Knoll Monument Knoll Monument are: • its function as a commemoration of the site of a crucial engagement during the Battle • its function as commemoration of the site of a mass grave of British and American soldiers • the survival of the original form and fabric of the monument • the unique design of the monument especially the use of a lion. • that the function of the monument as a memorial is still apparent • the use of cannons as part of the original memorial design The Stoney Creek Cemetery Monument This monument located on the east side of the Stoney Creek Cemetery, commemorates the British officer Harvey for his role in the Battle of Stoney Creek. It is a square granite pillar about 2 metres high with inscriptions on the sides. It was erected in 1938. The historic values of the monument are: • The commemoration of key figures in the battle • The location of the monument where a the initial contact with the Americans took place • The design of the monument
4.3 Landscape and Landscape Features The Dunnington-Grubb landscape The builders of the Stoney Creek Monument had Stoney Creek Cemetery Monument always intended to create a landscaped grounds to
THE BATTLE OF STONEY CREEK NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE OF CANADA - Commemorative Integrity Statement page 10
• that this is the first engagement of the Battle of the Stoney Creek which allowed for a surprise attack on the American camp • that the cemetery has retained its integrity • the visual relationship between the cemetery and Battlefield Park • the presence of a memorial to the British officer Harvey.
4.4 Archaeological Resources
Archaeological resources of national significance consist of any excavated and in situ resources associated with the Battle of Stoney Creek and the construction of the commemorative monuments. These consist of the burials at and adjacent to Smith’s Knoll, possible military burials at the Stoney Creek cemetery, the sub surface remains of buildings extant at the time of the battle (e.g. the Methodist Chapel), the commemorative monuments and landscape features. Archaeological excavations were carried out underneath and adjacent to the Gage House in 1995 and at Smith’s Knoll in 1998 and 1999. These excavations were undertaken to provide information on the construction and evolution of the Gage House and to exhume remains of the burials at Smith’s Knoll for proper re-internment in the granite tomb. The human remains within the tomb and in the Stoney Creek cemetery are not cultural resources. The archaeological resources uncovered at Smith’s Knoll directly related to the Battle of Stoney Creek and the subsequent burial include human remains, nails, glass, ceramic, clay pipes, buttons both military and domestic, gunflint, lead shot and other domestic items. Archaeological excavations at the Gage House yielded information on the original design and configuration of the house and subsequent modifications. The historic value of these resources lies in: • their tangible remains and • contribution to an enhanced understanding of the battle, construction, design, use and evolution of the Gage House and other buildings, the landscape at the time of the battle, the construction of the monuments and the composition of the burials.
4.5 Movable Objects
The level 1 objects which relate to the national significance of the site are held in public repositories and on site.. These consist of : • the original Dunnington-Grubb landscape plan • remnants of the original iron gate at Smith's Knoll • early sign from Smith’s Knoll • the trowel used in the placement of the corner stone of the Stoney Creek Monument • military equipment used at the battle • original documents related to the Battle of Stoney Creek and the establishment of the Smith’s Knoll Monument, and Battlefield Park held in public archives and municipal offices • the cannons at the Stoney Creek Monument and at Smith's Knoll The historic value of these resources lies in their direct association with the Battle of Stoney Creek and/or its commemoration.
THE BATTLE OF STONEY CREEK NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE OF CANADA - Commemorative Integrity Statement page 12 4.6 The cultural resources (building, archaeological resources and objects) will not be impaired or under threat when:
• the cultural resources and their associated values are respected; • management decisions are based on adequate and sound information and are made in accordance with the principles and practice of CRM Policy; • the cultural resources and their associated values are not lost, impaired or threatened from human actions within or outside of the site; • the resources and their associated values are not lost, impaired or threatened from natural processes, for example erosion and decay, within or outside of the site; • the historic values of the resources are communicated to visitors and the general public; • contemporary recreational activities and development respect the historic values of Battlefield Park. 5.0 REASONS FOR DESIGNATION AS A NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE
The reason for designation as a national historic site is expressed as a message. It is derived from the Statement of Commemorative Intent. The following is the message of national significance: The Battle of Stoney Creek is of national historic significance because of the undoubted historic importance of the military engagement that took place here.
5.2 Context Messages
Context messages are messages that are essential to an understanding of the reasons for the national significance of the site. The Battle of Stoney Creek • The Battle of Stoney Creek was a pivotal engagement in the campaign along the Niagara Peninsula; it halted the American advance towards York, the capital of Upper Canada. • The Americans took advantage of the high elevation for defensive purposes for their camp and artillery and had expected an attack. • Despite being outnumbered, the British marched from their camp at Burlington Heights and in a surprise night attack captured the sentry post at the chapel in the Stoney Creek cemetery, quickly swept through the camp, charged up Smith's Knoll capturing the guns and two American generals and made a strategic retreat. • The success of the battle was due to the element of surprise, the cover of darkness and the use of professional soldiers - the 8th and 49th Regiments. • The Americans thereafter made a hasty retreat to Fort George and never again advanced towards the capital. • Although the British victory was costly, it was an important morale booster of the British and consolidated local resident and native support for the Loyalist cause
page 13 THE BATTLE OF STONEY CREEK NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE OF CANADA - Commemorative Integrity Statement • The actual battlefield is larger than the present Battlefield Park. The Park is both a commemoration of the battle and a living testimony to the attempts over the past one hundred years to commemorate this important event in Canadian history. Stoney Creek Battlefield Monument • The monument was built to commemorate the victory of the British over the Americans in the Battle of Stoney Creek • The monument was also intended to symbolize 100 years of peace between Canada and the United States of America. • The scale which surpasses any other monument of its type Canada, was purposely intended to rival the Brock Monument, and thereby symbolizing the importance placed on the Battle of Stoney Creek by the builders. • It is the most prominent of the monuments built between 1895 and 1919 commemorating the War of 1812. • The design of the monument in the Tudor Gothic revival style, and its use of Canadian materials symbolizes the formation of the nationalist movement in Canada, and the connection and loyalty to the British crown. • The Women’s Wentworth Historical Society was instrumental in the commemoration of the site by the construction of the monument and the establishment of Battlefield Park and Gage House museum - thereby implementing the vision of Sara Calder, the driving force behind the commemoration. • The Women’s Wentworth Historical Society commissioned the prominent firm of Dunington and Grub to design a landscape to complement the Monument and the Gage House. • The design and implementation of a portion of the Dunington and Grub landscape master plan fulfilled the vision of the Women’s Wentworth Historical Society for memorial purposes and as a component of a civic park influenced by the City Beautiful Movement. • The portion of the designed landscape which was implemented remains intact. Smith’s Knoll Monument • The site is the location of the key engagement of the battle owing to its strategic battlefield position, • The capture of the American artillery, and senior officers at Smith’s Knoll was both a psychological victory and a tactical one as it left the remaining American troops without overall command for their planned advance onto Burlington Heights. • The site is the location of the mass grave of the fallen British and American soldiers • This was the first visible monument commemorating the Battle of Stoney Creek • The lion and the Union Jack symbolize loyalty to the British crown. • The design of the monument follows a tradition of cairn design found elsewhere. • The site is more than a commemoration, as the cannons represent the military nature of the site.
THE BATTLE OF STONEY CREEK NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE OF CANADA - Commemorative Integrity Statement page 14 Stoney Creek Cemetery • This is the location of the first engagement of the Battle of the Stoney Creek which allowed for a surprise attack on the American camp. • The importance of the site is commemorated by a memorial to the British officer Harvey.
5.3 What is a National Historic Site?
The Battle of Stoney Creek is a national historic site, that is, a place designated by the Government of Canada as a site of importance to all Canadians for historical reasons.
5.4 Objectives for messages
The reasons for the site’s national historic significance are effectively communicated to the public when: • the overall heritage presentation experience conveys the reasons for the national significance of the site; • visitors and non-visitors who experience heritage presentation, and the site stewards understand the reasons for the national historic significance of this site; and • management decisions are based on adequate and sound information and are made in accordance with the principles and practice of the CRM Policy. 6.0 HERITAGE VALUES
In addition to those Level 1 resources and messages that are directly tied to or represent the national significance of the Battle of Stoney Creek, the site possesses other physical and associative values that contribute to the site’s heritage character and heritage experience
6.1 Resources not Related to National Significance and their Values:
Landscape Setting
The setting of the site consists of the Niagara Escarpment a steep forested slope which provided a dramatic setting for the Monument and the designed landscape of Battlefield Park. Battlefield Creek is still an evident landscape feature. The site also contains vestiges of a former cherry orchard adjacent to Centennial Parkway. The landscape setting has historic value because of the survival of part of the original setting of the Battle of Stoney Creek, and landscape features of Battlefield Park and information on the evolution of the Park. Archaeological Resources
Level 2 archaeological resources consist of : • A large number and range of domestic items from excavations at the Gage House undertaken in 1995 dating from the late 18th to the end of the 19th century. • Evidence of prehistoric occupation from the Middle Woodland and possibly the Archaic Period have been found in the park • Potential evidence from the Gage family occupation of the site e.g. outbuildings and the store. These resources have historic value because they are tangible remains of the long occupation of the site and contribute to an understanding of the evolution and history of the site; page 15 THE BATTLE OF STONEY CREEK NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE OF CANADA - Commemorative Integrity Statement Moveable Objects
Level 2 objects consist of the following: • all the museum furnishings • some furnishing original to the Gage family • donated pieces from the community • Sara Calder painting and portrait • portraits of the Gage family • original photographs • documents related to the Gage family, the management of Battlefield Park, Smith’s Knoll and the Stoney Creek Cemetery These objects have historic value because they are tangible remains of the history of the site before and after the battle and contribute to a better understanding of its history. Nash-Jackson House
This house was originally located at the north east corner of King St. and Nash Road approximately 1 km. west of Battlefield Park. The house is a 2 storey frame Georgian structure moved to Battlefield Park in 1999. It is being adapted for community purposes. The Nash- Jackson House has historic value because:
Nash-Jackson House
• its cultural / architectural integrity, despite being moved, • its connection to the Gage family - long term relationship between the two houses • its use as a field hospital after the Battle of Stoney Creek
THE BATTLE OF STONEY CREEK NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE OF CANADA - Commemorative Integrity Statement page 16 • it is a good example of a Georgian house of the period • it has been designated under the provisions of the Ontario Heritage Act. The cultural resource will not be impaired or under threat when: • the cultural resources and their associated values are respected; • management decisions are based on adequate and sound information and are made in accordance with the principles and practice of CRM Policy; • the cultural resources and their associated values are not lost, impaired or threatened from natural processes, for example erosion or decay, within or outside the site; • the cultural resources and their associated values are not lost, impaired or threatened from human actions within or outside the site; • the historic values of the resources are communicated to visitors and the general public.
Heritage Messages:
Heritage messages present the values of the site which are not directly associated with the reasons for national significance. • Battlefield Park was established by the Women’s Wentworth Historic Society as a suitable landscaped setting for the Stoney Creek Monument and the Gage House. • The site was owned and occupied by the Gage family prior to and after the Battle. • The Gage Family played a prominent role in the social and political life of the community. • The Women’s Wentworth Historical Society was one of the first women’s cultural heritage preservation organizations in Canada. • Sara Calder was instrumental in the establishment of Battlefield Park and museum and the construction of the Stoney Creek Monument. • The dedication ceremony in 1913 made use of electricity to allow Queen Mary, the wife of King Edward to participate from her residence in Buckingham Palace.The Park has functioned as a public park for over 100 years. • There has been a long history of federal government involvement of the site from circa 1890s to the present. The Government of Canada financed the Stoney Creek Monument, owned it from 1949-62, and made a financial contribution towards the restoration work in 1993 because of the national significance of the structure. • The Niagara Parks Commission owned and managed Battlefield Park from 1962 to 1989 and established the recreational landscape which still exists. • The Smith’s Knoll Monument was owned by the Veterans Society for many years. It was restored in 1999. • The Stoney Creek Monument remains as the most prominent landmark in the community and has long been an icon for Stoney Creek. • The Ontario Heritage Foundation has an easement agreement on Battlefield Park. • The Nash-Jackson House, Smith's Knoll and the Gage House are designated under the Ontario Heritage Act.
THE BATTLE OF STONEY CREEK NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE OF CANADA - Commemorative Integrity Statement page 17 • The Battle of Stoney Creek National Historic Site is part of a national system to commemorate places, persons, and events of national significance • The site is one of a large number of designations of persons, places and events commemorating the War of 1812. • The site is one of 11 national historic sites in the Hamilton area. Effective communication of the messages not related to the site’s national significance will be achieved when: • Part of the heritage presentation experience conveys the messages not related to national significance; • The messages not related to the reasons for designation as a national historic site significance and their presentation do not overwhelm or detract from the presentation and understanding of the site’s national significance; • Both visitors and non-visitors, who receive messages not related to national significance understand them; • Management decisions are based on adequate and sound information and are made in accordance with the principles and practice of the CRM Policy.
page 18 THE BATTLE OF STONEY CREEK NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE OF CANADA - Commemorative Integrity Statement APPENDIX A
Minutes from the Historic Sites and Monument Board regarding the Battle of Stoney Creek National Historic Site
The HSMBC first considered the Stoney Creek Battlefield in 1938, after receiving a letter from the President of the Women’s Wentworth Historical Society calling attention to the existing condition of the memorial and suggested that the Matter receive attention by the Board. The Board responded: That as the monument on the battlefield of Stoney Creek is not under the control of this Board, it can only express its regret that this imposing structure has been allowed to fall into such a state of disrepair that it is at present in imminent danger of becoming a complete ruin as appears from Mrs. Lynch-Staunton's letter to the Chairman. The Board considering the national importance of this monument strongly urges the Dominion Government to take such immediate steps as may be necessary to put it into proper and complete repair and that in the view of the Board the care of this important and expensive monument should be taken over by the Dominion Government. The Board also recommended a plain bronze tablet bearing the following inscription be affixed to the Battle of Stoney Creek monument:
THEIR FAME LIVETH Canada remembers Lieutenant Samuel Hooker, Sergeant Joseph Hunt, Privates James Daig, Thomas Fearnsides, Richard Hugill, George Longley, Lawrence Meade, John Pegler, John Smith, and John Wale of the First Battalion of the Eighth (King's) Regiment of Foot, and Sergeant Charles Page, Privates James Adams, Alexander Brown, Michael Burke, Henry Carroll Nathaniel Catlin, Martin Curley, Martin Donnolly, Peter Henley, John Hostler, Edward Killoran, Edward Little, Patrick Martin, and John Maxwell of the Forty- Ninth Regiment of Foot, killed in action here, 6th June, 1813. The Board recommended again in 1939 that a plaque text be affixed to the Battle of Stoney Creek monument.
In 1946, the Board stated: That in view of the fact that the Dominion Government does not own the Stoney Creek Monument or the property on which it stands, the Board is not in a position to recommend that the cost of any repairs to this structure should be borne by the Department. That the Board understands that the monument together with the old Gage house now used for museum purposes, is situated in grounds about seventeen and one-half acres in extent belonging to the Women's Wentworth Historical Society, and is of opinion that it would be difficult to separate the responsibility for the care of the monument from that of the house and grounds. Consequently, in view of this and of the very considerable sums which will be required for the proper maintenance of this property, the Board does not now recommend that the monument be taken over by the Department.
In 1947, the Board reconsidered the above, stating:
That in view of the representations made by the Honourable Colin Gibson, Secretary of State, the Board recommends that the Department give consideration to the taking over of the Stoney Creek
THE BATTLE OF STONEY CREEK NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE OF CANADA - Commemorative Integrity Statement page 19 Monument as a National Historic Site. In this connection the Board has noted the reference to this matter in a memorandum dated the 4th November, 1938, from the Chief Executive Assistant. In 1948, in the Minutes of a Meeting of the Committee of the Privy Council, the following statement was included in reference designating the Stoney Creeks Battlefield as a national historic site:
The Committee, therefore, on the recommendation of the Minister of Mines and Resources, advise that authority be granted to accept the gift of the said land, which is more particularly described hereunder, as a national historic site, on behalf of His Majesty the King in the right of Canada. The Board discussed the Battle of Stoney Creek monument next in 1960, deciding:
That the Board recommend that the Battle of Stoney Creek be commemorated by the establishment of the Battlefield area as a national symbol by taking advantage of the existing facilities in the area and extending them as may be found necessary, the whole to form a comprehensive unit of monuments, buildings and cemetery together with suitable surrounding land; That the justification of the above recommendation lies in the undoubted National Historic importance of the military engagement that took place there and in the urgent need to develop the area imaginatively in view of iminent encroachment. The Board discussed the creation of the Stoney Creek Battlefield as a National Historic Site in 1961, and signed an agreement with the Niagra Parks Commission in 1962. The Stoney Creek Battlefield was turned over to the Province of Ontario in 1963.
In 1966, the Board recommended the following inscription:
“Battle of Stoney Creek 6th June 1813. During 1813 the Americans planned to invade Upper Canada from Detroit and the Niagara Peninsula. In late May, an American Force crossed the Niagara River, seized Fort George, and with about 3500 troops moved inland in pursuit of the British, who retreated to Burlington Heights. At Stoney Creek, a surprise night attack by about 700 regulars of the 8th and 49th Regiments of Foot under Lt.-Col. John Harvey halted the American advance and allowed the British to re-establish their position on the Niagara frontier. The Americans retreated to Forty Mile Creek and subsequently to Fort George.”
In 1992, the Board reviewed the past recommendations, and stated:
The Board first reviewed the previous HSMBC recommendations regarding the Battle of Stoney Creek and its Battlefield, at length. The Board was of the opinion that its 1960 recommendation, with its reference to "monuments ", did, in fact, confer national historic site status to the Stoney Creek Memorial. None the less, the Board was not prepared to recommend that the monument be considered as a candidate for funding assistance through the National Cost-Sharing Program since:
• it could not be seen to be of exceptional significance at the national level;
• the Program has many other priority projects awaiting assistance from the limited funding base of the National Cost-Sharing Program;
• the monument is associated with a theme (the War of 1812) which has been adequately commemorated by the Canadian Parks Service.
THE BATTLE OF STONEY CREEK NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE OF CANADA - Commemorative Integrity Statement page 20 • Notwithstanding the above, the Board suggested that it would be most appropriate for the Program to make technical assistance and advice available to those involved in the restoration of the monument APPENDIX B: BATTLE OF STONEY CREEK NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE OF CANADA COMMEMORATIVE PLAQUES
APPENDIX C: LIST OF PARTICIPANTS
page 21 THE BATTLE OF STONEY CREEK NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE OF CANADA - Commemorative Integrity Statement Appendix B
BATTLE OF STONEY CREEK NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE OF CANADA DESIGNATED PLACE
Battlefield Memorial Landscape
Approximate location of the Battle
D Designated Place page 21
Appendix B
City of Hamilton Planning and Development Department, Long Range Planning and Design Division, Community Planning and Design Section June 2004
Hamilton’s Heritage Volume 5: Reasons for Designation Under Part IV of the Ontario Heritage Act
Battlefield Cemetery “Smith’s Knoll” 70 King St W Battlefield House, Park and Monument 77 King St W Nash-Jackson House “Grandview” 77 King St W