WAR OF 1812: Laura Secord’s famous walk immortalized in stamp, coin

QUEENSTON – The Niagara Parks Commission, along with the Friends of Laura Secord, Canada Post and the Royal Canadian Mint, wish to invite all Canadians to celebrate the achievements of Laura Secord, a remarkable woman who walked into Canadian history 200 years ago.

On Friday, June 21 at 10 a.m., the NPC plays host to a commemorative coin and stamp unveiling ceremony at the Laura Secord Homestead, located at 29 Queenston St., Queenston.

Canada Post will issue two stamps to commemorate the daring exploits of two legendary national heroes – Laura Secord, who warned of an imminent enemy attack on Canada, and Charles de Salaberry, who led a defence that repelled a larger force bent on capturing Montreal.

The stamps are part of a three-year series commemorating the War of 1812 and, as of Thursday, will be available at all post offices across the country and at www.canadapost.ca.

The Royal Canadian Mint will also unveil a new 25-cent commemorative  circulation coin in honour of Laura Secord, which will conclude a four-coin series celebrating the Heroes of the War of 1812. By Friday, there will be 12.5 million of these coins beginning circulation across Canada.

On Saturday, June 22, The Friends of Laura Secord’s Commemorative Re-enactment Walk takes place, tracing the route the heroine took from her homestead in Queenston to Decew House in Thorold.

Participants can opt to complete the full, 32 kilometres, or join in with shorter route options. Participants with mobility challenges can also experience the entire route by riding the fully accessible shuttle. Pre-registration is required. Visit www.friendsoflaurasecord.com for more information.

The same day, the War of 1812 Bicentennial Heritage Fair takes place, running from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. out of the Laura Secord Homestead.

This event will showcase activities integral to daily life during the War of 1812. Historic interpreters, entertainers and interactive activities will make visitors feel as though they have stepped back in time.

Please note, there will be no on-site parking at the Homestead on June 22. Visitors who park at Queenston Heights will be shuttled to the event and will receive half-price admission at the Laura Secord Homestead.

For information on all Niagara Parks Commission events, visit www.niagaraparksheritage.com.