CA-K443History

Laura Secord’s walk in 1813

Laura Secord in her later years, around 1865 (McCord Museum). Mrs James Secord · Anonymous (photographer unidentified) · Photo source · Photo licence: Public domain. Resized for display; item previews may be cropped. The image remains under the licence shown.

Factual accuracy review: No recorded challenge

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On 22 June 1813, during the War of 1812, Laura Secord set out from her home in Queenston to warn the British of a planned American attack at Beaver Dams. She walked alone more than 30 kilometres behind enemy lines to the De Cew farmhouse and told Lieutenant FitzGibbon of the plan. Later in the 19th century, the first generation of women historians championed her deed to make women’s contributions to Canadian history known.

Scope & context

Secord’s walk as described in her designation, not the War of 1812 as a whole.

Sources behind this record

Laura Ingersoll Secord National Historic Person ↗

Parks Canada (Directory of Federal Heritage Designations)

Importance; plaque text