In 1793, John Graves Simcoe established a plot of land along the shores of Lake Ontario as the site for the new capital of Upper Canada, which he named York. This engaging popular history provides a comprehensive overview of the early days of settlement, the devastation of the Battle of York, the emergence of industry and commerce, and introduces eminent families. Emphasis is placed on the development of a streetscape, the built heritage of the time, and the people who laid the foundation for the emergence of Toronto in 1834. Significant participants are presented in the context of where they lived and worked, and major events in the life of York are introduced through the eyes of the people who witnessed them and the landmarks that shaped the town.