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This park, like the New York State Reservation, 1s free; James Wilson is superintendent Its
creation followed an act passed by the Ontario Legislature in 1855, and on December 14th,
1886, an Order in Council was passed approving the selection of the lands for park purposes.
The area of the park proper is 154 acres, but the Commissioners control the strip along the bank
from Table Rock to Queenston known as the Chain Reserve. This gives them authority over
more than 300acres. The expense incurred in establishing this park by Canada was $436,513.24.
The park was formerly opened on May 24th, 1858, the 69th anniversary of Queen Victoria’s
birthday. A grand civil and military display occurred on June 21st, 1888. It is from Victoria
Park that the most beautiful front view of both falls can be obtained.
TABLE ROCK.
This is one of the historical spots in the park. At one time it was very famous, but it
has gradually fallen away until little of the great ledge which once overhung the precipice re¬
mains. Some idea of what it once was is gained by the statement that in July, 1815, a mass 160
feet long by 4o feet wide fell, and on June 26th, 1850, a piece 200x260 went down. There is an
elevator at this point, but the visitor of one day will find it best to forego the pleasure of the
descent and drive on.
CEDAR AND DUFFERIN ISLANDS.
Notwithstanding that the possession is called Victoria Free Park, the Commissioners, at
this writing, continue to charge a small toll to carriages entering upon the islands. But the
view to be had driving through the islands 1s well worth the sum charged. From Cedar Island
a magnificent view of the rapids above the falls 1s obtainable as they leap from ledge to ledge
in the descent of 50 feet to the brink of the Horseshoe Fall. Pretty rustic bridges connect the
Dufferin Islands, so named after Lord Dufferin, late Governor- General of Canada.
POWER DEVELOPMENT.
It is just a little above Table Rock that the Canadian Niagara Power Company will de- .
velop, by means of a short discharge tunnel and the necessary wheel-pits, about 250,00 horse
power, which will serve for manufacturing purposes in the vicinity and also be transmitted
electrically to outside points.
You have now visited the main portions of both of the great Free Parks at Niagara and, in
the remaining few hours of your one day visit, will find it pleasant to hurry to some of the
vutside points of interest. The first of these is