Burlington Heights Depot-- Part 2: A Strong Defensive Position

After the Battle of Stoney Creek (June 1813), the British erected three lines of earthworks across the peninsula, with gun batteries and blockhouses on the heights behind the depot and at the old Burlington Inlet.

A large stone powder magazine was built behind the second defense line.  Although the military continued to view this site the site as defensible following the end  of the War of 1812, the buildings were allowed to deteriorate, and today the site is occupied by various attractions, including the Dundurn Castle NHS (built 1832-1835) and part of the Royal Botanical  Gardens NHS.

The stone powder magazine was later incorporated into the  cellar of Dundurn Castle.  A stone marker and cannon (1914) is at the site of the first line of defense.  Another marker (1914) is located in Harvey Park.  Another stone marker (1914) is located at Hamilton Cemetery, with the excellent remains of earthworks there.

Of interest nearby  is the Hamilton Military Museum. in Dundurn Park.

--Brock-Perry