Keasha Maile, FEO, August 15, 2024, VOL. 5 ISSUE 25
Old Fort Erie buzzed with excitement and echoed with the sounds of muskets and cannon fire during the weekend of August 10 and 11. The 39th annual reenactment of the Siege of Fort Erie drew hundreds of history enthusiasts and curious visitors to witness a pivotal moment from the War of 1812 come alive.
The Siege of Fort Erie, which began in August 1814, turned the fort into one of Canada’s bloodiest battlefields. Drew Neufeld, Assistant Manager of Old Fort Erie, told the Fort Erie Observer that this is Canada’s largest annual War of 1812 reenactment.
“We have over 400 reenactors that came out this weekend that paid homage to those who served here. One of our major focuses is education for the public, but it also gives us the opportunity to commemorate those who served on these grounds.”
The weekend’s events kicked off with the Fort and camps opening to the public Saturday morning. The atmosphere was charged with anticipation as reenactors, dressed in meticulously detailed period costumes, set the stage for the dramatic events to unfold. The changing of command ceremony in the early afternoon was a significant highlight, with Brigadier General Craig Williams passing command of the British line to Brigadier General Tom Fournier, a moment steeped in tradition and pageantry.
One of the unique aspects of the event was the inclusion of merchants and sutlers among the reenactors. These historical characters offered a glimpse into the daily lives of people during the War of 1812, with various unique historical pieces available for purchase. The bustling market added an extra layer of authenticity to the experience, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the past.
As the sun set on Saturday, the excitement reached its peak with Drummond’s dramatic night assault on the south field. The clash of forces under the cover of darkness was a sight to behold, drawing gasps and applause from the crowd.
Neufeld said the night assault reenactment is a fan favourite for new and returning guests each year. “We blew up the Fort! We watched the Americans hold up the Garrison, then the British come in and attacked, [all ending] in the explosion in the southeast of the Fort!”
Following the assault, Old Fort Erie took on a different hue with a guided lantern tour.
The event was particularly engaging for children, who had the opportunity to join the mini militia. This interactive program allowed young attendees to learn about the life of a soldier in the 1800s through simple arms drills, marching practice, and bayonet charges. The hands-on experience was both educational and entertaining, sparking an interest in history among the younger generation.
The 39th annual reenactment of the Siege of Fort Erie was a resounding success, drawing history buffs, families, and tourists alike. The event not only honoured a significant chapter in Canada’s history but also provided an engaging and immersive educational experience for all who attended.
