Re-enactors heading to Old Fort Niagara’s War of 1812 Grand Encampment
Re-enactors from the United States, Canada and beyond will descend upon Old Fort Niagara this month for a two-day War of 1812 Grand Encampment.
Set to take place at the Youngstown, N.Y. fort on July 28 and 29, hundreds of reenactors are expected to attend what is being touted as the largest War of 1812 event in the fort’s history.
“We’re anticipating a large turnout of re-enactors for this grand encampment and are excited to welcome them and visitors for an exciting weekend of living history,” said Robert Emerson, executive director of the Old Fort Niagara Association. “The naval aspect of this event, with boats sailing on Lake Ontario, will make this a fresh experience for visitors. The event will be similar in size to the annual French and Indian War Encampment, but will feature history from 1812 and 1813.
The event will bring to life the conflict between the U.S. and Britain that resulted in battles of artillery and muskets, as well as destructive fires, along the then-contentious border between U.S. and Upper Canada. While Fort Niagara was under American control at the start of the war, the British made a surprise attack in December 1813, resulting in the fort being surrendered.
Old Fort Niagara will open at 9 a.m. on July 28 and 29, with full programs being offered both days giving visitors the opportunity to learn about soldiers’ and sailors’ uniforms, weaponry, drills, and life in service. There will be large-scale battle demonstrations, Regency country dancing with instruction provided, as well as history lectures, musket demonstrations, and more.
Admission is $13 for adults, $9 for children ages six to 12 and free for kids ages five and under.
For more information, visit oldfortniagara.org.