Weary travellers arriving by stage coach or by horse to any small town in the 1860’s would be hoping to find a place to feed and water their horses and to do likewise with their own bodies. For those staying overnight, a room with a bed would also be welcomed. A place like Cook’s Tavern would be exactly what they would be looking for. Originally opened in 1804, by Michael Cook, the Cook’s Tavern served the needs of travellers coming by boat along the St. Lawrence River as well as those coming along the King’s Highway between Kingston and Montreal.
With a stable out back for the horses and a spot to purchase that shot of alcohol for 3 cents a shot, what else could an 1860’s traveler need. Just WATCH OUT FOR PICKPOCKETS!
 
Cook’s Tavern offered meals on the main floor and had a “dance hall” and more rooms upstairs. The Cook’s Tavern structure at the Upper Canada Village reflects the 2nd iteration of the tavern since the first version was unfortunately occupied by the Americans at the time of the Battle of Crysler’s Farm during the War of 1812 and then torched as they retreated back across the St. Lawrence River. Later, financial compensation was provided by the government and the Tavern was rebuilt using those funds.
The second floor “dance hall” had a fireplace and piano and would have been a gathering place not only for the traveler but also a focal point for community gatherings and activities.
For the weary traveller a choice of style and size of rooms was provided.
In the 1860’s, religion played an important role in the community and most communities of any size would soon have some place of worship. In Upper Canada Village, Christ Church represents that place of faith and worship. Its plain wooden pews and lack of ornamentation speak to the nature of the Anglican (Episcopalean) worship of the day. The Christ Church was moved to its current location in Upper Canada Village in 1957.
 
In modern times at Upper Canada Village, Christ Church is also one of the highlights of the seasonal light show and, at that time, visitors are welcome to sit in the pews and join in and sing carols and other seasonal music. (More Alight At Night entries)
