Old Fort Niagara launches campaign for Native American Education Center

Center will replicate living conditions for Native Americans at site during Revolution, enhance living history programming for current guests

Old Fort Niagara Press Release

Photos by Wayne Peters and Joshua Maloni

To commemorate the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution, Old Fort Niagara announced plans to construct a replica 18th century Native American dwelling to serve as a Native American Education Center. The site will vividly represent the living conditions for Native Americans at the fort during the Revolution, and serve as a focal point for the Native living history programming.

At a press conference on Tuesday, Old Fort Niagara Executive Director Robert Emerson said, “As perhaps the most historic site on the Great Lakes, Old Fort Niagara is about to turn 300 years old. Our mission is to bring history to life through preservation, authentic presentation and engaging programs. Every visit to the fort offers a chance to step back in time and connect with the past in a meaningful way.

“An integral part of this long history is the fort's connection with Native American nations, and it's important that we elevate that history here at Old Fort Niagara.”

Robert Emerson (Photo by Joshua Maloni)

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The center’s design reflects a little-known piece of local history. During the American Revolution, thousands of Native Americans fled to Fort Niagara to flee the ravages of war. Hewn log dwellings were constructed right outside the walls of the fort to house the Native allies of the British.

Old Fort Niagara has already secured $200,000 toward the cost of the building. It aims to raise another $50,000, with community support.

“Individuals or businesses can go to the donation page on our website, oldfortniagara.org,” Emerson said. “I'm even pleased to announce that we have a matching grant challenge of $5,000. The first $5,000 donated to this campaign will be matched by a generous board member of Old Fort Niagara.”

The interior of the recreated log structure will include sleeping, dining and storage spaces – each incorporating period Native American clothing, weapons, trade goods, lighting and other historic pieces. Native interpreters will share with visitors the role of the Native peoples at Old Fort Niagara; Native history; and culture, trade, military alliances, diplomacy and survival.

Jordan Smith (Photo by Wayne Peters)

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“This facility and our enhanced Native programming will undoubtedly enrich the experience of thousands of school students, area residents and visitors to our region, who will have the opportunity to engage fully in both the military history of the fort and its Native history,” said Jordan Smith, Mohawk, Bear Clan, and head of Native education at Old Fort Niagara.

In addition to educational living history experiences, the building will also serve as a hub for workshops for small groups to learn traditional Native skills such as moccasin making, beadwork, quillwork, finger weaving and even Native language classes. Old Fort Niagara also intends to invite local Native communities to use the building for social gatherings and small-group meetings.

The public portion of the fundraising campaign, co-chaired by Chief Brennen Ferguson, Tuscarora, Turtle Clan; and Michael McInerney, recently retired CEO of Modern Disposal Services, is now underway – with the goal of raising the remaining funds by early September.

At the kick-off event attended by local Native American leaders and Old Fort Niagara supporters, Ferguson spoke to the importance of sharing the Haudenosaunee story.

Chief Brennen Ferguson (Photo by Joshua Maloni)

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"This cabin will stand not only as a window into the past, but as a doorway to greater understanding,” he said. “The story of this land did not begin with the founding of Fort Niagara. Native Nations lived, traveled and governed here long before European arrival. Today, Native staff at the fort continue the vital work of educating the public about that deeper history. This structure will support their efforts, helping to share a fuller story; one that honors the presence, contributions and strength of Indigenous Peoples."

Michael McInerney (Photo by Joshua Maloni)

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McInerney discussed the importance of supporting cultural sites like Old Fort Niagara, and the imperative to attract new audiences.

“In addition to providing a new, engaging experience for all who visit the fort, the Native American Education Center will draw new visitors and school groups, and help Old Fort Niagara broaden its reach,” he said. “The expanded draw will help ensure the fort remains a vibrant educational resource in our community for generations to come.”

The new building will be located adjacent to the Old Fort Niagara Visitor Center, with a planned opening in spring 2026. The facility will be open during regular operating hours, including for field trips, and can open for special events during the evening, lit by traditional lighting.

Individuals or businesses interested in learning more or donating can visit www.oldfortniagara.org/donate.

Tuscarora Council member Neil Patterson Sr. (Photo by Wayne Peters)

Smoke dance artists. (Photo by Wayne Peters)