LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION honoring the Western New York Tuscarora Indian
Nation in recognition of its timely intervention in Lewiston, New York,
during the War of 1812

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to commemorate signif-
icant events which represent turning points in our unique history and
which are indelibly etched in the saga of our great Nation; and
WHEREAS, It is also the sense of this Legislative Body to call atten-
tion to those historic sites within the State of New York which serve as
lasting reminders of our rich and unique past; and
WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its long-
standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to honor the
Western New York Tuscarora Indian Nation in recognition of its timely
intervention in Lewiston, New York, during the War of 1812; this auspi-
cious occasion will be celebrated on Thursday, December 19, 2013; and
WHEREAS, During the War of 1812, British forces, supported by allies,
attacked Lewiston, New York, in retaliation for American troop actions
in Canada; and
WHEREAS, The British attack on Lewiston turned into a rampaging massa-
cre and the burning of the town; and
WHEREAS, As Lewiston villagers, some in bare feet and pajamas, fled
through mud and snow from the British invading troops, two dozen Tusca-
rora men ran from their nearby hillside village, firing muskets and
screaming a war whoop; and
WHEREAS, The courageous and timely intervention by the Tuscarora Indi-
an Nation bought time for many of the villagers to reach safety, and
saved the lives of many men, women and children; and
WHEREAS, On December 19, 2013, the 200th anniversary of the burning of
Lewiston, the Tuscarora Heroes project of the Lewiston Historical Asso-
ciation will dedicate a monument in honor of the heroism and bravery of
the Tuscarora Indian Nation; and
WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body that when events of
such historic significance are brought to our attention, they should be
recognized by all the citizens of this great Empire State; now, there-
fore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
honor the Western New York Tuscarora Indian Nation in recognition of its
timely intervention in Lewiston, New York, during the War of 1812; and
be it further
RESOLVED, That copies of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be tran-
smitted to the Western New York Tuscarora Indian Nation.