The River Raisin National Battlefield Park commemorates the mustering of militia for the War of 1812 this weekend with scheduled events from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, May 19 and Sunday, May 20.
The “War of 1812: A Nation Forged by War” exhibit developed by the National Museum of the United States Navy will debut in the Battlefield Visitor Center along with new period demonstration gardens outside that showcase native and French herbs, vegetables, and ornamental plants!
“An incredible amount of work has gone into enhancing the Battlefield for this year’s Open House. Because of the contributions of numerous very generous individuals, businesses, and organizations this weekend’s events are going to be wonderful,” said Superintendent Scott Bentley.
In addition to the new gardens and exhibit, the Battlefield is opening its new “Trading Post,” which offers many items including the New Release of the National Park’s Monopoly which includes River Raisin National Battlefield Park! “The items you will find in the “Trading Post” are unique to River Raisin Battlefield or National Park’s,” said Superintendent Bentley.
Weekend activities include living history encampments, musket demonstrations, military drills, mini-militia’s, 1812 games, and historical demonstrations of cooking, gardening, medicines, clothing, and much more!
Kids will enjoy a visit by Major Muskrat as he joins the activities with appearances on Saturday at 11 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. and then again on Sunday at 1 p.m. and 3 p.m.!
“Hey Everyone, come on out and join the fun with me this weekend… I forecast sunny a sunny day full of excitement on the grounds of the Battlefield!” said Major Muskrat.
Authorized in 2009 and established in October of 2010 as America’s newest National Battlefield Park, River Raisin National Battlefield Park remembers, commemorates, preserves and interprets the January 1813 battles of the War of 1812 and their aftermath.
Although American forces were victorious in the first battle, the second ended in the most disastrous defeat for the U.S. during the war; a devastating loss that included mass killing of the wounded. One of the most historically significant event to emerge from the battles was the cry, “Remember the Raisin!” which persuaded forces to fight successfully at the Battle of the Thames later that year.
The American victory at the Battle of the Thames sealed the War of 1812 in the western theater for the Americans; however, it claimed the life of the great Shawnee leader Chief Tecumseh.
The River Raisin National Battlefield Park is located at 1403 E. Elm Avenue, Monroe, MI 48162. For more information, call 734.243.7136.
HOMETOWN HISTORY TOURS 