Welcome to the War of 1812 media page! Below you will find news releases, newsletter updates and blog postings about the War of 1812 events in Oswego County.
War of 1812 Update (3-14-11)
Organizations across New York State are preparing their calendars to commemorate the 200th Anniversary of the War of 1812. Locally, a steering committee has formed to propose ideas, projects and events that will showcase the role that Oswego County played in our nation’s campaign for freedom.
The Oswego County War of 1812 Symposium launches commemoration activities on Saturday, April 2, 2011. This day-long lecture features Dr. Gary Gibson, Richard Palmer, Paul Lear, Shawn Doyle and Matthew Macvittie. These distinguished historians will discuss military and naval logistics, William Cooper’s Ark, the Battle of Oswego, genealogy and research of local servicemen as well as militia and soldiers.
Several exhibitors will be at hand to provide further insight and detail on this page of American history. The Continental Arms Collectors Association hosts an exhibit of War of 1812 artifacts, and the Half-shire Historical Society displays an account of local events.
The symposium takes place from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the American Foundry, 246 West Seneca Street in Oswego. Pre-paid admission is $25 for adults, $15 for students with a valid ID and lunch will be provided.
Call now to reserve your space at this notable event! To register or learn more about the symposium, call 315/343-4711 or e-mail roberta.elmer@oprhp.state.ny.us.
War of 1812 Update (12-1-10)
Earlier this year, New York State Governor vetoed a bill that would establish a commission to promote the 200th anniversary of the War of 1812. While this news came as a disappointment to many, it simply means that the state will not provide funding for War of 1812 commemorations. Municipalities and historical organizations or attractions across the state will continue with their plans to honor this landmark occasion.
Here in Oswego County, a group is beginning to take shape that will look at ways to commemorate, promote and otherwise educate others about the War of 1812. We have our own stories to tell about our role in the war, including the Battle of Oswego in 1814 and the Great Rope Carry that followed. Hundreds of our ancestors fought in battles along Lake Ontario to preserve this country’s newly-won freedoms.
The Oswego County Tourism Advisory Council and the Friends of Fort Ontario will be organizing an educational event in the spring of 2011. Greg Monette, chairman of the CNY Genealogical Society, has compiled information about our War of 1812 soldiers that will be used to mark the graves of soldiers buried in this county. The listing can be found on the link above.
If you are interested in more information about commemoration activities or would like to be involved in the planning process, please contact the Oswego County Tourism Office at 315/349-8322 or tourism@oswegocounty.com.
Kelly Jordal’s Blog: War of 1812 Series
Commemorating heroes of the War of 1812 (Vol. I) Commemorating heroes of the War of 1812 (Vol. II) Commemorating heroes of the War of 1812 (Vol. III)War of 1812 News Releases:
- March 14, 2011: Symposium Shows War of 1812 Military Strategies
- March 7, 2011: Symposium Honors Local Soldiers of the War of 1812
- February 25, 2011: Oswego to Host 1812 Symposium April 2
