2 novembre 2024 Niagara-on-the-Lake (Ontario) Parcs Canada
Today, Parks Canada commemorated the national historic significance of Teyoninhokarawen (John Norton) with a special plaque unveiling ceremony at Queenston Heights Park in Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario. The commemoration ceremony was organized by Parks Canada in collaboration with the Niagara Parks Commission as part of the annual Valor and Victory: Honoring Indigenous Veterans memorial service at Queenston Heights Park.
Born on December 16, 1770 to a Scottish mother and an Ani-yunwiya (Cherokee) father, Teyoninhokarawen (John Norton) was a great political and military leader, interpreter and author before, during and after the War of 1812. Performer for the Indian Department in Niagara, Upper Canada, in the 1790s, Norton met and impressed the famous Kanien’kehá:ka (Mohawk) chief Thayendanegea (Joseph Brant). Thayendanegea’s mentorship led Norton to join the Kanien’kehá:ka of Grand River, where he was adopted as his nephew and successor. As an emissary, Norton traveled to London, England, to convince the Privy Council to support Haudenosaunee land rights, in opposition to the Department of Indian Affairs.
During the War of 1812, Norton’s leadership and military acumen played a crucial role in convincing many First Nations communities and their warriors to ally with the British in key battles, contributing to victories in the Battles of the Heights -Queenston, Stoney Creek, Chippawa and Lundy’s Lane. His success as leader of the native forces helped counter American advances and consolidate British positions.
Norton also left a rich literary legacy, including a translation of the Gospels of St. John and St. Matthew into Kanien’kéha (the Mohawk language) and journals that provide a rare contemporary account and Haudenosaunee perspective on the war. His work served as a bridge between cultures. As a leader, he played a key role on the military and diplomatic scene in the late 18th and early 19th centuries.
The Government of Canada, through Parks Canada and the Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada, recognizes the significant people, places and events that have shaped this country in order to help Canadians connect with their past. By presenting these stories to Canadians, we hope to foster understanding and reflection on the diverse histories, cultures, legacies and realities of Canada’s past and present.
The designation process under Parks Canada’s National Historical Commemoration Program is based largely on public submissions. To nominate a historic person, place or event in your community, please visit the Parks Canada website for more information: https://www.pc.gc.ca/fr/culture/clmhc-hsmbc/ncp-pcn/application.
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