Peace gardens tell stories of bravery and battles
The Peace Garden Trail of New York tells the compelling story of the War of 1812. Each garden along the route represents a chapter in history, providing a local connection to a war that shaped the future of the United States.
The Peace Garden Trail commemorates the peace that has existed between Canada and the United States since the end of the War of 1812. The bright, beautiful gardens offer a moment of peace and tranquility for visitors to enjoy. They also house historical stories of bravery and battles, creating an educational, entertaining journey across New York State with colorful interpretive panels that guide the way.
The Peace Garden at Niagara Falls Public Library is close to where Gad Pierce operated a tavern in the early 1800s. During the War of 1812, Gad Pierce attempted to protect the local citizens and slow down the attacking British Forces. His acts of bravery earned him the title of Niagara Frontier Protector of Freedom. Pierce Avenue in Niagara Falls is named in his honor.
Also located in Western New York is the oldest federal-style stone residence in Erie County.The historical Hull House was built around 1810 and is said to have been used as a refuge for citizens fleeing from the British during the War of 1812. In the peace garden near the House sits a historic sculpture of Buffalo Mayor Ebenezer Walden, one of the few who stayed behind during the burning of Buffalo to try to save as many lives as possible.
In the charming hamlet of Pultneyville, a scrimmage occurred between the citizens and the British on May 15, 1814. After the British returned to their ships on Lake Ontario, heavy cannoning commenced. Although no fatalities occurred, a cannon ball still remains in one of Pultneyville’s oldest houses. Guests are welcome to visit the peace garden at the Williamson-Pultneyville Historical Society while enjoying the view of the hamlet and harbor where the battle took place.
Northern New York residents prepared for British invasion during the War of 1812. By September 1814, Plattsburgh was filled with turmoil and bloodshed. Many fled the area, including the Delord family. While the Delords escaped, the British utilized their home, the Kent-Delord House, as their headquarters. Visit the Kent-Delord Garden House Museum peace garden, which has been restored to the original geometric style from the 1800s.
A perfect time to visit Northern New York and the Peace Garden Trail is The Battle of Plattsburgh Commemoration Weekend which runs from September 8-11 with tours, concerts, reenactments, fireworks, entertainment, parades and more for the whole family. Taking place near the Kent-Delord Garden House Museum, the weekend commemorates the Bicentennial of General Alexander Macomb’s and Master Commandant Thomas MacDonough’s defeat of the British army that took place on September 11, 1814. The Battle of Plattsburgh ended the final invasion of the northern states during the War of 1812.
The Peace Garden Trail of New York allows guests to discover history, savor regional foods, enjoy nearby attractions and attend interesting events. The Historic Lewiston Jazz Festival, running August 26-27, 2016 along Center Street, is only a minute away from the Honorary International Peace Garden at Lewiston.
For more information about the gardens or to plan your journey along the historic route, visit: www.peacegardentrail.com.
About the Peace Garden Trail of New York
Peace gardens bursting with blossoms trace the historic route of the War of 1812 across the state of New York. Blooming May through October, this trail tells the compelling story of how the events of the War of 1812 helped to shape the future of the United States. The natural beauty of these permanent gardens, each representing a chapter in history, commemorates the peace that has existed between Canada and the United States over the past 200 years.
Journey along the trail to discover the history, savor regional foods and take in nearby attractions. For more information, visit: www.peacegardentrail.com and www.ipgf.org.