Strategically positioned on the lake's edge, Fort York was the primary guardian of Toronto's harbour. Constructed in 1793, the post was fortified 18 years later when Anglo-American relations soured. Razed to the ground in 1813 during an American attack, the fort was rebuilt by the British. As US threats declined, its military importance diminished. A new fort was constructed to the west after 1841. Today costumed guides bring it back to life, by way of demonstrations and military drills.