War of 1812 War Heroes; John Norton

Probably the most unsung hero of the War of 1812 is John Norton. He was a Mohawk chief in the Niagara area and was present at many actions in the Niagara.

He was half Scot and half Cherokee. Without him Queenston Heights and Stoney Creek would probably both have been lost.

1812

Queenston Heights; after Brock was killed, Norton with 300 warriors, kept the Americans pinned to the heights and under constant fire. His warriors' war cries kept thousands of Americans from crossing the river. By the time the British reinforcements arrived the Americans were exhausted.

1813

Stoney Creek; in the night time attack at Stoney Creek Norton led 30 natives to attack the rear if the American encampment while the British main force attacked the front. This was the turning point of the war, Norton's natives terrified the Americans and much if their forces dispersed.

1814

Chippawa; though the British lost this battle, Norton's natives as well as the Canadian militia were the last off the field.

Lundy's Lane; He lead a contingent of natives.