The Battle of Queenston Heights on October 13, 1812 served as an extraordinary expression of historic alliances that extended back generations and marked an essential moment in the emergence of a fledgling country whose borders and character were being tested and defined. The heroics and exploits of Major-General Sir Isaac Brock and General Roger Hale Sheaffe on the battlefield and in diplomacy are well known to history. Largely unknown, however, is the critically important role that Six Nations and Native allies played in supporting their British and Canadian compatriots and securing victories at pivotal events.

Landscape of Nations, the Six Nations & Native Allies Commemorative Memorial affirms the proper place of Indigenous peoples at the core of Canadian history and signals their ongoing role in contemporary life and national affairs. To recognize these achievements, this dramatic, compelling, and inspirational public artwork was designed and installed with the support of all levels of Canadian government, businesses, foundations, and the citizens of Niagara-on-the-Lake.

In 1912, at the Centennial of the Battle of Queenston Heights, at least twelve Indigenous nations made financial contributions to the restoration of Brock’s monument. And now, after more than 200 years, we stand at the precipice of Queenston Heights with a clear vision and the capacity to correct what has been a long-standing omission — the acknowledgement of Canada’s first allies.

Co-Chair, Richard Merritt
Historian, Town of Niagara-on-the-Lake