Video: Lewiston pays tribute to Tuscarora Nation at 'Flames' event

The Historical Association of Lewiston commemorated the 200th anniversary of the burning of Lewiston (Dec. 19, 1813) with its "Flames Through Lewiston" re-enactment and dedication of the Tuscarora Heroes Monument (Dec. 19, 2013).

More than 150 volunteer re-enactors of all ages and from both sides of the border recreated the horrific War of 1812 British attack on Lewiston.

The monument is a tableau of three large bronze sculptures depicting men from the Tuscarora Nation saving a local woman and child shown running for their lives. It is the largest War of 1812 bicentennial monument project in the U.S.

"The Tuscarora Nation has never been thanked for their heroic efforts in saving American lives during the 1813 British invasion, and the monument will stand as a testament of thanksgiving to the Tuscarora Nation," said Lee Simonson, the Historical Association of Lewiston's volunteer director for the project. "This is about a forgotten moment, in a forgotten war, that will never be forgotten again."

The larger-than-life bronze sculptures were created and produced by Lewiston's Susan Geissler, recognized as one of the top sculptors in the U.S. The monument is located at a prominent intersection in the village, where visitors will see it as they enter the main business district.

Site contractor Rocco DelGrosso of Krislyn Company was responsible for constructing the monument plaza.

Click below to watch a highlight video: