Laura Secord
There are few women recognized in our history, which makes Laura Secord an even more important role model.
The War of 1812, was a war between the British (Canadians) and the United States. It was this time period that permanently established the borders that run the length of both countries. The Americans were pushing into Upper Canada, and on June 21st, 1813 a group of soldiers took over the Secord home in Queenston, Upper Canada.
Laura's husband still recovering from the Battle of Queenston Heights, had limited mobility. She cooked, served and cleaned up after the intruders. She also gave them plenty to drink. As the evening wore on, the soldiers began to talk of their plans. Perhaps they did so because of the alcohol or perhaps they knew that James Secord was not a threat.
Laura overheard Colonel Boerstler's plan to surprise Lt. Fitzgibbon at Beaverdams. She knew that the Niagara peninsula would fall into the American's hands if the British were not warned of the impending invasion.
Although there is some conflict as to how she got there, the truth is that she did - by walking 20 miles (32 km).
By nightfall she was exhausted when confronted with Indians. She managed to convey the importance of her mission to the Chief, and he arranged for her to be escorted the remainder of the way.
As a result, all but 6 of the American soldiers were captured.
The Horseshoe Falls and the fertile soil of the Niagara Peninsula are still proudly, Canadian.
Canuck Quotes
"The weather on the 22nd day of June, 1813 was very hot, and Mrs. Secord, whose person was slight and delicate, appeared to have been and no doubt was very much exhausted by the exertion she made in coming to me, and I have ever since held myself personally indebted to her for her conduct upon that occasion..." Lieutenant James Fitzgibbon
in an 1827 letter
Trivia Eh?
Laura Secord was born a U.S. citizen, married and moved to Upper Canada.
Her bravery occurred in 1813 - in 1860 she received her first formal recognition. She was visited by the Prince of Wales and given 100 pounds.
The Secord home, is now a museum in the Niagara region.
She had nothing to do with chocolate, the company was named in her honour
Laura Secord died in 1868 at the age of 93