Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand introduced a resolution to commemorate the 200th anniversary of the War of 1812, fought between the U.S. and Great Britain. Canada, a former British colony, fought alongside the British. The conclusion of the war paved the way for amicable relations among the U.S., Canada and Great Britain, now among America’s closest allies.
“New York’s proximity to Canada made it a hotbed for conflict in the War of 1812,” said Senator Gillibrand. “New Yorkers, as well as the Tuscarora people of New York, deserve recognition for their efforts 200 years ago. Lewiston, Fort Niagara, and Plattsburgh were engaged in the war, and Buffalo came under regular siege from the British. After two centuries of peace, is it important to acknowledge those who gave their lives defending our freedom from oppression, as well as our strong relations with Britain and Canada.”
“The Conservancy is extremely proud to be part to this amazing and once in a lifetime event. It’s fitting that this particular Olmsted landscape should host this event as there are 300 soldiers from the War of 1812 interred in the Delaware Park Meadow” said Thomas Herrera-Mishler, President & CEO of the Buffalo Olmsted Parks Conservancy.
“The Bicentennial of the War of 1812 was a defining conflict of nationhood in both of our countries. And while we commemorate this period of shared history in different and national ways, it is the great legacy of peace that we all celebrate. Those living in border communities have been the daily recipients and beneficiaries of our precious inheritance — and nowhere is this more true than here along the Niagara,” said Marta Moszczenska, Consul General of Canada, Buffalo.
In conjunction with the Senate resolution, the Buffalo Olmsted Parks Conservancy will host an event on July 6 at Delaware Park, to honor those who died and celebrate the 200 years of peace following the war. The Buffalo Olmsted Parks Conservancy will honor the 300 soldiers buried in the meadow by planting 300 trees. Representatives from the U.S., Canada, the Seneca Nation of Indians and Veteran community will be present.
Senator Gillibrand’s resolution is attached.