The Docks, Collingwood, Ontario Postcard. Ca. 1900. 7.6 x 12.7 cm. TPL (TRL) PC-ON 468 In January 1855, the Ontario, Simcoe & Huron Railway reached Collingwood. In the 1790s Lieutenant-Governor Simcoe envisioned the benefits of a "Toronto Passage" that would reduce the distance and the time necessary to travel to the upper lakes. Originally this shortcut and the ability to travel year-round were believed to be the major benefits of railways. However, railways also served to open the area around Toronto for settlement and act as a conduit directing passengers and produce through the city.