The Burlington Races Plaque

"THE BURLINGTON RACES" 1813

On the morning of September 28, 1813, a powerfully armed
United States fleet comprising ten ships under the command
of Commodore Isaac Chauncey appeared off York (Toronto).
The smaller British fleet of six vessels, commanded by
Commodore Sir James L. Yeo, was in the harbour, but on
the approach of the enemy set sail to attack. After a sharp
engagement, the British squadron was forced to withdraw
toward Burlington Bay where it could take refuge under
the batteries on the adjacent heights. A close chase en-
sued, but by skillful seamanship, Yeo was able to bring his
ships through the shallow channel in the sand-bar to the
safety of this bay.

Erected by the Ontario Archaeological and Historic Sites Board

Ministry of Colleges and Universities