2012 is the anniversary of the War of 1812. Our region, Buffalo and the Niagara Frontier, played vital roles in this war. Fort Niagara was the site of many struggles from its earliest days as a trading post between the British and Native Americans, through the War of 1812. Since that time there has been peace and friendship between the United States and Canada, which is a stone's throw across the Niagara River and in sight of the fort.

Robert Averill, a well loved local artist and history buff, who in particular loved Fort Niagara and our local history, passed in June of this year. Friends of Robert, with permission from his wife Lynn, decided to raise funds to buy the painting from his estate as a gift to Fort Niagara. So far, we have raised $1400 of the $3600 required.

Your help with the remaining $2200 will help his family, but even better, it gives this fine artist a lasting legacy, his painting a home at the fort which will cherish it, and visitors to the fort a treasure only Robert can give them.

Please help us meet our remaining goal. Gifting Fort Niagara during this anniversary year is very significant.

Thank you!