America’s War for Independence comes alive on July 27 and 28 as Old Fort Niagara hosts the Grand National Encampment of the American Revolution. Eight hundred reenactors will gather at the fort to stage four battle reenactments, artillery duels, 18th century clothing programs, a period hospital and much more.
The event, entitled Rebels at the Gates, depicts an American attack on Fort Niagara in the summer of 1779. Although the fort was securely in British hands throughout the Revolution, battle demonstrations will illustrate the tactics employed by both the British and American armies and present broader themes about the Revolution on the New York frontier.
National reenactor organizations including The Brigade of the American Revolution, the Continental Line and the British Brigade selected Old Fort Niagara as the site of their Grand National Encampment because of the fort’s rich history and commitment to living history programs.
When they arrive at Old Fort Niagara, reenactors will establish large period camps that display many of the camp activities that took place on a daily basis during the War for Independence. Camp life will play out much as it did during the 18th century with military formations, colors ceremonies, medical displays and martial drills.
Highlights of each day will be two large-scale battle reenactments, artillery duels and fife and drum music by the assembled music corps of both British and American armies. Period merchants will also set up camp, offering their wares to participants and public alike. Others will demonstrate period crafts, showing how artisans provided items needed to keep armies in the field.
During the American Revolution, Fort Niagara served as British headquarters on the Great Lakes, as a base for frontier raids and a destination for Loyalist refugees. The fort features several original 18th century buildings that predate the war. During the event, hundreds of reenactors will bring the fort’s venerable buildings and fortifications to life as they recreate the New York frontier of the 1770s.
Rebels at the Gates is the fort’s kickoff event for the nation’s multi-year 250th birthday celebration. The program aligns with New York State’s proclamation of the years 2024 to 2033 as the Era of Commemoration.
More information is available at www.oldfortniagara.org.