This print is from the American magazine “Port Folio,” published in Philadelphia 1809-1827. The magazine included engravings and aquaprints that are among some of the earliest images of North American that were available to the public. This print, originally by William Strickland, shows Queenston Heights with a faint path leading up the escarpment. The path was part of the portage route that helped move goods around Niagara Falls during a time when our rivers and lakes were the main highways. The first portage route was on the east side (American side) but the west-side route was established in Queenston around 1788 by Robert Hamilton. Many businesses were formed to support the portage system, which led to the growth of Queenston. Learn more about the portage route when the exhibition, “All Along the Waterfront,” opens May 18.