The town of Lewiston is steeped in the history of early America. Due to its geographical position at the head of the Niagara Gorge, Lewiston played a significant role in the War of 1812 with Canada, and was the last stop on the infamous Underground Railroad for Canada-bound escaping slaves. Geologists believe that the world famous Niagara Falls was first born where Lewiston sits today. Powerful erosion over the past 12,000 years has resituated the falls seven miles north to where they currently sit. The township was the center for east-west shipping until the opening of the Erie Canal in 1825. Locals also stake the claim that Lewiston is the birthplace of the word "cocktail,” after an early tavern-keeper coined the phrase to name her beverages in the 1800s. More recently, Lewiston has become known as a charming getaway where visitors can enjoy many restaurants and local attractions, such as Artpark, renowned for theatrical and artistic venues.