Lewiston, N.Y.- A map outlining the series of peace gardens across New York State and Southern Ontario was outlined this week.

The Niagara Tourism and Convention Corp. in cooperation with various county tourism offices across New York State released a map this week which details the War of 1812 Bicentenniel Peace Garden Trail.

The 600-mile Peace Garden Route which stretches from Southern Ontario to Northern New York State was established to commemorate the approximately 200 years of peace that have existed between the U.S and Canada following the onset of the War of 1812.

Much of the activity during this conflict was cancentrated in New York State along the southern shores of Lake Ontario and the Niagara River.Visitors along the Bicentenniel Peace Garden Trail will learn the history of the many events and battles that took place during this historic period.

In Niagara County, three Peace Gardens have been established. They are as follows:

Honorary International Peace Garden at Lewiston (476 Center Street, Lewiston, NY 14092) In retailiation for the U.S. attack on Queenston Heights in Canada, Lewiston was burned to the ground by British Troops in 1813. Local Tuscarora Natives ran down from their village and thawarted the British attack, providing enough time for citizens to escape.

Bicentenniel Peace Garden at Niagara University (Niagara University Campus, Niagara University, NY 14109) Niagara University sits along the route the British traveled when they burned burned every major American outpost between the Lewiston and Buffalo, including Fort Schlosser. In addition, it served as a place where goods were portaged around the mighty Niagara Falls.

Bicentenniel Peace Garden at Youngstown (Falkner Park, Main Street Youngstown, NY 14174) Located just a short walk from Historic Old Fort Niagara, one of the most important and best preserved sites from the War of 1812. Falkner Park was home to skilled tradesman and storekeepers who were attracted to the area by the fort in the 1800s. When the British attacked in 1813, many of their homes and businesses were burned to the ground.

The interactive Peace Garden Trail Map allos visitors to use their smart phone to obtain an audio tour when visiting each of the individual gardens. By calling 585.201.5079 and selecting the cooresponding garden, a guide will describing the history and importance of each site. In addition, the map aids in pairing other tourism opportunities and highlights many of the major attractions located nearby.

To obtain a copy of the map or for more information visit the Niagara USA Official Visitor Center at 10 Rainbow Blvd., Niagara Falls, NY 14303 or the International Peace Garden Web site at www.ipgf.org.

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