American Soldiers Reinterred
On December 3, 1900, a gravedigger at Drummond Hill Cemetery uncovered nine human skeletons. It was obvious from their buttons and belt buckles that these men had been members of the 9th United States Infantry. This is one of the regiments that had fought at the Battle of Lundy's Lane. They had died on July 25, 1814.
Button from the 9th United States Infantry from the War of 1812
It was suggested that the bones be reinterred at Fort Niagara or Fort Porter, but eventually it was decided that the soldiers should be buried at the site where they had fallen. The ceremony became an international military affair. It was held on October 19, 1901 which was the same day that a drinking fountain in memory of Queen Victoria was being unveiled. The fountain had been erected by the people of Niagara Falls South. Since that time, the fountain has been moved a couple of times but remains as the only tribute to Queen Victoria in Niagara Falls.
Drinking fountain erected in Queen Victoria's memory
In attendance were the soldiers of the 14th United States Regiment, members of various historical societies and members of the No. 1, 44th Regiment of the Canadian Volunteer Infantry. Hundreds of people witnessed the ceremony as the soldiers were buried next to the grave of Captain Abraham Hull of the 9th United States Infantry who also fell at the Battle of Lundy's Lane.
Reverend Canon Bull performed the service and was assisted by Canon Houston and Canon MacKenzie. Captain Harris of the 9th United States Infantry sprinkled dust on the casket and a military salute was fired. The bugler played "Taps" after which the band played "Nearer My God to Thee". The fountain was unveiled after the burial.
Canon George A. Bull
Stone dedicated to Captain Hull and the nine American soldiers
Message from Colonel William P. Michael of Washington D.C. who represented the State Department.
A message from Colonel William P. Michael of the United States, State Department was read. There were cheers for King Edward and for President Roosevelt. This was a ceremony of great political significance cementing the friendship between the American and Canadian governments.
Newer gravestone for the nine unidentified American soldiers.