June 14 to 21 is United Empire Loyalist Week in Ontario, and, for those with connections to and an interest in this chapter of history, Niagara-on-the-Lake’s historic ties to Loyalists make it a week worth celebrating.

The Loyalists were those who, during the American Revolution (1775-1783), stayed loyal to the British Crown. For its military significance and geographic location, NOTL became a refuge for Loyalists fleeing the United States.

Fred Gregory, a member of the Col. John Butler Niagara branch of the United Empire Loyalists, says these individuals made big sacrifices to flee to Niagara and support the Crown.

“Just for the safety of their person, they suffered huge financial losses,” Gregory said.

He was at a ceremony on Queen Street in front of the clock tower cenotaph commemorating the United Empire Loyalist Week in Ontario, along with other members of the Niagara branch and town officials, on Saturday, June 14.

He added that the Loyalist movement was diverse, calling it a “multicultural group.” It included French people, African American people and Dutch people, among others.

The Niagara branch of the United Empire Loyalists got its name from Col. John Butler, a Loyalist who led a group — often referred to as Butlers’ Corps or Butlers’ Rangers — to fight Americans on behalf of the British. According to the branch’s website, the Rangers’ presence established the Loyalist tradition in Niagara.

“Were it not for him, there may not be a Canada,” Gregory said.

The event began with Lord Mayor Gary Zalepa’s proclamation to commence Loyalist Week in NOTL, followed by a ceremonial performance from the Fort George Drum and Fife Band.

A flag-raising and wreath-laying ceremony was also held at the Queen Street cenotaph.

The small but passionate crowd sang “O Canada” and “God Save the King,” including individuals who are descendants of Loyalists who sought refuge in NOTL.

Bruce Wallace, president of the Col. John Butler branch, is a descendant of Butler and said the ceremony is especially important to him because of this connection.

Gregory is also a descendant of Loyalists, and said he is “very proud of his Loyalist heritage.”

Loyalist Week is commemorated in NOTL every year on the last Saturday before June 19, the official United Empire Loyalist Day in Ontario.