St. Catharines Standard, November 11, 2009
Marlene Bergsma, Standard Staff
The City of St. Catharines is officially joining the party for the War of 1812 anniversary, with its decision this week to establish a committee to mark the event.
Two representatives from the city's historical community made a presentation to council, saying that the city was noticably absent from the guest list.
All of the major municipalities from Hamilton to Fort Erie have already formed steering committees, said Christel Haeck of Heritage Niagara. Many of the cities and groups have beek working since 2006, when the Regional 1812 Legacy Council was formed, said Brian Narhi, co-chair of the St. Catharines heritage committee.
"Many steering committees in other municipalities have been meeting for over three years, leaving us in desperate need to catch up, and quickly," Narhi said. He said at least one staff person should be appointed to work on the plans, and the city should allocate money to the cause.
Narhi said it would be wrong to think that just because there weren't any battles in St. Catharines that the city didn't have a major role to play.
Laura Secord walked through St. Catharines on her way to warn General Fitzgibbon of the advancing Americans, St. Catharines soldiers fought in local battles, churches were used as hospitals, there were British outposts along Twelve Mile Creek, and the Coloured Corps, a group of Black loyalists, had a settlement in the city.
Haeck said surveys have shown tourists are interested in historical travel. Narhi said there are many local groups and individuals who are willing to be involved in planning activities and experiences with a St. Catharines connection.
St. Patrick's Coun. Heather Foss asked council to endorse the initiative and requested that city staff report back on opportunities for the city's involvement.
Source: St. Catharines Standard