Niagara University sophomore Ryan Clark (left) and Brendan Menz flank a sign at the newly established War of 1812 Bicentennial Peace Garden on the university's campus. Both men, who are portraying soldiers in the first U.S. artillery, are reenactors at nearby Old Fort Niagara.
A War of 1812 Bicentennial Peace Garden was dedicated on June 18 at Niagara University. The garden, located between St. Vincent’s and Alumni halls on the university’s campus, is a partnership between Niagara, the Binational Economic & Tourism Alliance, and the 1812 Legacy Council.
The speakers at the event included Niagara Falls, N.Y., Mayor Paul Dyster and Nancy E. McGlen, Ph.D., dean of Niagara’s College of Arts and Sciences.
“This event is part of an effort between Ontario and New York state to celebrate the 200 years of peace between the United States and Canada,” said Dr. Thomas Chambers, chair of the university’s history department. “These beautiful places along the borders of the two countries will help to commemorate the years of peace, and promote binational cooperation and recognition of the resources that are available for historical tourism.”
Niagara’s is the second peace garden established. The date was selected to commemorate the 198th anniversary of the United States’ declaration of war against Great Britain.
