Local War of 1812 sites

Covid has certainly changed our travel this year but it doesn’t mean we have stayed home exclusively, just that we have adjusted our plans to be more local and avoid crowds. As a result we have been enjoying our own area including well known destinations like Niagara Falls, but have also done some more general exploring including local sites from the War of 1812.

The sites we have visited recently include Queenston Heights and Lundy Lane, both near Niagara Falls, and the Battlefield at Stoney Creek. All are close by and outside so made for interesting trips that could be done safely, minimizing any Covid risks (masks and hand sanitizer at all times!)

Queenston Heights has an impressive monument to Sir Isaac Brock, the British Major-General who led the defense against the American invasion but was unfortunately killed during the battle in 1812. Coincidentally we were there on the anniversary of his death, October 13, but there was no obvious recognition of the significance of the day.

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Battle of Lundy’s Lane occurred in nearby Niagara Falls, in what is now a built up area, but there is an interesting iron work display across the road and monuments in the nearby Drummond Hill Cemetery to mark the location of the battle. This battle was much later in the war than Queenston Heights, July 25, 1814 and apparently was a particularly bloody one that lasted for hours and cost the lives of hundreds of men on both sides.

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There is also a monument at the cemetery to Laura Secord, best loved for her chocolates, but recognized for her bravery in hiking alone for 20 miles to alert British troops to American battle plans, enabling a successful surprise counter attack at Beaver Dams.

Battle of Stoney Creek occurred June 5, 1813 and represents a critical turning point in the war. Over 3,000 American troops were surprised by a night raid of 700 British regulars who captured the American leaders, forcing a withdrawal and ultimately protecting the Niagara frontier. The battleground area is now a national historic site, with a monument erected to mark the 100th Anniversary, and extensive grounds and original buildings. In prior years there have been re-enactments of the battle complete with muskets and cannons firing in the fields right next to Centennial Parkway. Good fun!

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