The Niagara region is full of Canadian history, particularly regarding the War of 1812. Laura Secord is one of the most well-known figures of the War of 1812 and to this day is considered a Canadian heroine. In the village of Queenston, just a 15-minute drive from Niagara-on-the-Lake, is the Laura Secord Homestead. This house is the place where Laura and her family lived and where she supposedly set out on her famous journey, that is believed to have changed the course of the war and imbedded her firmly in Canadian history.
Who was Laura Secord?
Laura Secord was born in Great Barrington, Massachusetts in 1775. Her parents moved their family to Canada in 1795 and at the age of 22 she married a merchant named James Secord. In 1803 the Secords moved to their house, now known as the Laura Secord Homestead, in Queenston where their family lived until 1835.
Laura Secord’s Role in the War of 1812
The War of 1812 (which took place from 1812-1814) was a conflict between the United States of America and Great Britain, with Indigenous allies on both sides. Canada became the primary battleground as the opposing sides battled over territory. Laura Secord cemented herself in the books of Canadian history with her decision to take a brave journey to warn the British army of an impending American attack.
In June of 1813, it is believed that American forces were billeted at the Secord house. We don’t know for sure, but it is believed that Laura may have overheard plans of an American attack from soldiers enjoying a meal in her kitchen. The plan was to attack British forces at the somewhat nearby Beaver Dams and Laura and James decided to attempt to warn the British forces. As Laura’s husband was recovering from wounds garnered during the Battle of Queenston Heights in 1812, Laura Secord decided she would make the journey herself.
She supposedly set out from her home in Queenston and is believed to have walked 32 miles to personally warn Lieutenant James FitzGibbon. It is believed that as a result of Laura’s warning, Lieutenant FitzGibbon, his group of 50 men and their Indigenous allies were able to successfully launch an attack on the Americans which stopped them from advancing further into Canada.
The story of Laura Secord’s journey has been told and re-told over the years, painting a romantic vision of the heroine. The truth is that little is known about her life or her journey and it is widely agreed that there may have been some embellishments along the way. But even so, she still remains a fascinating and respected Canadian figure.
Visiting the Laura Secord Homestead
I personally really enjoyed visiting the town of Queenston, as there are many historical gems to discover. As someone who grew up learning about Laura Secord, it was interesting to see the house in which she lived. Unfortunately, the house wasn’t open when I visited, but I found it just as fascinating viewing the building from the outside.
During normal times, visitors can wander inside the home, which was restored by the Laura Secord Candy Company in 1971 and looks similar to how it would have while Laura and her family were living there. Visitors can explore the parlour, the main bedroom and the very kitchen where Laura was believed to overhear plans of the American attack.
Virtual Tour of the Laura Secord Homestead
Unable to make it to Queenston? No problem! Niagara Parks now offers a virtual visit inside Laura Secord’s house, where you can explore the homestead from the comfort of your sofa!
Key Information for Visiting the Laura Secord Homestead
What is the best way to get to Laura Secord’s house?
The Laura Secord Homestead is located in the town of Queenston, in the Niagara region. The easiest way to reach Queenston is by car and is about a 1.5 hour drive from Toronto (depending on traffic).
How far away is the house located from Niagara Falls?
Laura Secord’s house is located only a 15 minute drive from Niagara Falls. It’s also only a 15-minute drive from the beautiful nearby town of Niagara-on-the-Lake.
How much does it cost to enter the Laura Secord Homestead?
It costs about $9.85 for an adult ticket and about $6.50 for a children’s ticket (and if 5 year old and under, children are free). Further information on both prices and opening times can be found on the Niagara Parks website.
Is this the same Laura Secord from the chocolate company?
Yes! In 1913, the original candy store was opened in Toronto by a man named Frank P. O’Connor. He is said to have named the store after Laura Secord because of his admiration for her loyalty and courage as a Canadian heroine.
What other historical things are there to do nearby?
Both the town of Queenston and wider Niagara region are packed with historical things to do! If in the area, you will of course have to visit the famous Niagara Falls. Here you can also check out some of the other historical things to do in Queenston. I would also highly recommend a visit to Niagara-on-the-Lake, well known as Ontario’s wine country. Overall it’s a beautiful region that retains a fascinating amount of Canadian history to explore.
This article’s information was last updated in August 2022.