Noted historian and Lewiston resident Lee Simonson will present "8 Miracles that Saved America" at 6 p.m. Monday, March 12, at the Niagara Arts and Cultural Center, 1201 Pine Ave., Niagara Falls.
Simonson will discuss several amazing and unlikely stories that have shaped America's history. Whether they are true miracles, or just blind luck, he looks at the events that took place from 1755 to 1942 in a quick and informative manner that will leave listeners intrigued.
"Some of the things that happened are more like 'Ripley's Believe It or Not,' but each provided a critical tipping point in America's creation and survival. Does God have a hand in America's success? Did miracles really happen? We'll examine the evidence and folks can come to their own conclusions," Simonson said.
The speaker was awarded the national Spirit of 1812 award in Washington, D.C., for his volunteer work on the Tuscarora Heroes Monument project and Lewiston's 1812 Bicentennial commemoration, including the Battle of Queenston Heights re-enactment. Simonson was also the director of the Freedom Crossing Monument project and past president of the Historical Association of Lewiston.
He has been awarded Niagara County Leader of the Year and Town of Lewiston Citizen of the Year awards for his service. Simonson was also awarded the Individual Achievement Award by the Western New York Association of Historical Agencies.
Simonson is a small business owner. Prior to that, he was a Niagara County legislator for 32 years (retiring in 2005). Since then, he has devoted his free time to volunteer causes promoting the area's history.
This lecture is part of the "Monday Night Mixer" series at the NACC. Admission is free, but donations are welcome.
