In Sackets, Fourth features War of 1812

SACKETS HARBOR — Remember to keep the packet of gunpowder tucked under the chin; it shields it from rain. And everyone knows that water makes gunpowder useless.

This was one of many historical tidbits that visitors learned at the War of 1812 living history camp Saturday at the Sackets Harbor Battlefield State Historic Site. The display, a staple attraction at the battlefield during the summer, came to life as re-enactors practiced drills, musket firing and a cannon volley.

"There is no better way to learn history than to see people living it," said Benjamin R. Peak, a summer employee with the state Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation.

The camp is open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Mondays, Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays through mid-August. This Saturday happened to fall on the Fourth of July, and that seemed perfectly fitting to Mr. Peak and volunteer re-enactor Timothy J. Abel.

"It's really engaging for the kids to learn this way instead of sitting in a classroom," Mr. Abel said. "We are celebrating our nation's independence, and it's great to be able to do anything that has to do with our nation's heritage."

There were five re-enactors on the field Saturday, and they taught the crowd the steps to fire a rifle of the type used during the War of 1812. The loud bangs and puffs of smoke filled the field and surprised several people, but not 4-year-old D.J. Concannon, Manlius.

"I like the olden days, and the guns," he said. His mother, Erin M., asked if he would prefer to live back then or now, with his new toys.

"I like both," he replied quickly. "But I do like the cannons."

Mrs. Concannon brought D.J. and his 3-year-old brother, Kevin P., to the battlefield to show them the boats and the lake. As a bonus, they were able to stop and tour the camp and get a taste of 1812 life.

Shae Williamson also was there for the day with her twin 2-year-olds, Robert and Ainsley. Mrs. Williamson's husband, Robert, is a soldier at Fort Drum with the 23rd Military Police Company and is set to deploy later this summer.

"We brought the kids because we thought they would be super interested. They are learning about soldiers because of Daddy right now," Mrs. Williamson said.