A romantic row around Toronto’s harbour on a hot summer day might “make a young couple happy for the remainder of their days,” according to this item from the Toronto Growler, August 12, 1864.

We recommend a turn about the Bay to all young ladies and gentlemen who are desirous of keeping clear of the heat, the dust and din of our city for a few hours. A couple in a small boat we have found to be quite sufficient — the gentleman at the oars and the fair one at the tiller. Sitting thus vis-a-vis, with cool breezes gently fanning your brow, the prospect of a quiet bit of lunch, and an odd snatch of some sweet melody, is not to be sneezed at. Such delightful little parties may be improved too, in a thousand ways likely to make a young couple happy for the remainder of their days.

Unfamiliar Canadian history stories 054