Peace Bridge Commercial Centre - Site History:

In May 1998, a book was published, "Legacy of Stone - Ancient Life on the Niagara Frontier" co-authored by Ron Williamson (shown here) and Robert MacDonald, in association with the Buffalo and Fort Erie Public Bridge Authority.

A complete history of the site, perched on the banks of Lake Erie, can be traced through aboriginal artifacts from up to 4000 years ago. Other items unearthed were from a fishing camp on the site 600 years ago and from soldiers stationed on the site in 1814. The site was also home to an aboriginal arrowhead factory and countless stone arrowheads were found. How these artifacts were recovered, while construction of the new customs building continued, is explained.

The book is published by eastendbooks, a small press Canadian Publishing company.

Ten-Fish Soup:

The large pot shown in the picture was found on site and reconstructed. The contents of the pot were analyzed and a recipe was deduced from the ingredients for a meal intended to be eaten in AD675.

Have ready:
+ Three fresh pickerel
+ Three white bass
+ One piece river sturgeon
+ One venison shoulder (bone in)
+ Lake Erie water (may substitute)
+ One bowl shelled walnuts
+ One generous handful purslane

Method:
Place venison in large clay stew pot and cover with water. Bring to boil, reduce heat and simmer until the venison is tender and falls off the bone. Meanwhile, clean fish and cut into small two-inch chunks. Include head and tail. When venison is tender, add fish chunks and shelled walnuts. Cook an additional 30 minutes. Just before serving add purslane and heat through.

Serves the extended family.