At the beginning of the Civil War, Fort Niagara was garrisoned by elements of the Seventh United States Infantry Regiment. This unit was captured by Confederates in New Mexico in July of 1861 and sent to northern border posts on parole the following winter. Later, the Union strengthened Fort Niagara by adding massive brick walls that remain a prominent feature of the fort today.
Abraham Lincoln’s portrait graces the United States Five Dollar bill. Visitors who bring one for each member of their party can purchase fort tickets for a fraction of the regular cost, while enjoying special programs about local history during Lincoln’s time.
