Built in 1833, the Queen's Wharf served Fort York and the surrounding area during the mid 1800's. It was unearthed by excavation for a new condo development in the middle of March of this year.

Archeologists examine the structure while work continues around it. This wharf is already past the original shoreline of Lake Ontario, and the lakeshore has been pushed several hundred metres farther south since this dock was decommissioned.

The north-east corner of the wharf has been set aside for preservation. It consists of five layers of 10" square beams, joined with dovetails and pegs.

In addition to the corner structure, a few stray pieces have also been kept.

With the archeologists satisfied and a token section of the wharf preserved, demolition and excavation proceeds. The remaining timbers are set aside, awaiting a future use.

Additional source: The Toronto Star, March 25, 2006: "Pier review wins old wharf new future".

posted by Matthew Robertson  # 29.3.06