"War of 1812: Battle of York, Celebrates 200th Anniversary"

TORONTO-Ont- Over 7,000 people participated in the commemorative ceremonies held inside the walls of fort York National Historic Site marking the anniversary of the Battle of York.

After a Service of Remembrance a plaque honouring First Nations warriors who died in the Battle of York was unveiled.

Chiefs and members of the Mississaugas of the New Credit, Beausoleil, Chippewas of Georgina Island and Chippewas of Rama First Nations, who are descendants of the warriors who fought in the famous battle were on hand.

A sunrise ceremony at Palais Royale launched the day, held by descendants of First Nations warriors who fought alongside British soldiers and local militiamen, 200 years ago to the day, at the Battle of York Saturday.

York, as Toronto was known, fell to invading American forces, who occupied it for about six days, looting homes and torching the parliament buildings before turning back. The British would go on to rebuild Fort York and set the White House and the Capitol ablaze later in retaliation.

"We lost five of our chiefs" said Gary Sault of the Mississaugas of New Credit.

About 60 First Nations fought alongside the British army and the Upper Canadian militia.

The British and their allies retreated to Kingston after an overwhelming American force.