December 19, 2017 marks the 204th Anniversary of the “Tuscarora Heroes.” Near Niagara Falls, in retaliation for the American forces burning the British held Canadian town of Newark (now Niagara-on-the-Lake) and Fort George ) during the War of 1812, British-Canadian forces and their First Nations allies captured Fort Niagara and attacked the poorly defended Town of Lewiston.
Though a number of civilians were killed during the burning of Lewiston, many more were saved by the actions of warriors from the nearby Tuscarora village who rushed to their aid. Creating a diversion long enough for many civilians to escape, the actions of the “Tuscarora Heroes” has become an important part of Lewiston’s history and shared memory.
In 2013, a statue commemorating the actions of the Tuscarora Heroes was unveiled and an annual ceremony and celebration takes place every December 19th.
For more information, visit the Historical Association of Lewiston’s website.
Photo: Statue commemorating the Tuscarora Heroes, provided.
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