Lewes to commemorate the War of 1812 April 6 and 7
The Lewes Historical Society will commemorate the 200th anniversary of the War of 1812 Saturday and Sunday, April 6 and 7, in historic Lewes as a variety of events will take place throughout the weekend.
On Saturday, April 6, the public can experience the guns of Fort McHenry as the Fort McHenry Guard will be in town to demonstrate cannon firing at Cape Henlopen State Park (time TBD).
Also on April 6, beginning at 12:30 p.m., leading regional and national scholars will give presentations at St. Peter's Church Hall regarding the War of 1812 in the Mid-Atlantic and some of the newest in historical findings about the so-called America's Second War of Independence. This seminar will be led by Russ McCabe, retired Delaware State archivist. This event is free and open to the public.
Speakers include Lucas Clawson, archivist, Hagley Museum & Library; Dr. Michael Crawford, historian, U.S. Navy History Center; Chuck Fithian, archaeologist, state of Delaware; Bill Manthorpe, USN, retired; Don Shomette, historian, author of "Hunt for HMS DeBraak."
On the afternoon of Sunday, April 7, the Fort McHenry Guard will be at the Lewes Historical Society demonstrating musket drill, and their Fife & Drum Corps will be playing. Activities for kids, families and all interested will be available. This event is free and open to the public.
At 4 p.m., April 7, the public is invited to a rededication and commemoration of the War of 1812 Park on Front Street in downtown Lewes. Gov. Jack Markell and Sen. Tom Carper have been invited to speak. This event is free and open to the public.
A very special 1812-inspired dinner to commemorate the War of 1812 will be held at 5:30 p.m., Sunday, April 7, at the Lewes Yacht Club. Reservations are required and are $100 per person. Reservations include an 1812 dinner and special Dogfish Head brews and wine. For more information, to purchase tickets online and to view a full menu for this event, go to www.HistoricLewes.org.
This commemoration event weekend is sponsored by PNC Wealth Management.
Call the Lewes Historical Society at 302-645-7670 for more information or visit www.HistoricLewes.org.
