This pioneer historian, author and soldier was born in Queenston. His family moved to Amherstburg about 1802, and at the outbreak of the War of 1812, Richardson joined the British army. Retired on half pay in 1818 in London, England, he published the epic poem "Tecumseh" and the celebrated historical novel "Wacousta" which established his literary reputation. In 1838, Richardson returned to Upper Canada where he published two weekly newspapers, "The New Era" (1841-42) and "The Canadian Loyalist" (1843-44). His later works, "Eight Years in Canada" and "War of 1812", provide invaluable historical information. In 1848, he moved to New York City and died in poverty.

Location

In front of Laura Secord Public School, Walnut and Queen streets, Queenston

Themes

• Arts and culture
• People
• War and conflict