Ann Martin, a fifer with Brooks Detachment, 1812 Marines, will perform with other units as part of the War of 1812 program at Daniel Smith Days, set for Sept. 15 and 16 at Historic Rock Castle in Hendersonville.During Daniel Smith Days at Historic Rock Castle on September 15 and 16, the event committee has decided to extend the “time line” to include the anniversary of the War of 1812.  It is sometimes called the Forgotten War.  With this year’s bicentennial anniversary of the War of 1812, the federal government’s commitment to reviving interest in the event is seen as a positive move – for both Canadians and Americans. 

Mark Reid, editor of Canada’s History Magazine says, “The War of 1812 was the most crucial war of the century and that is why it is imperative that both Canadians and Americans remember it.  It is important that we commemorate an event in which two countries at war have gone on to be not only neighbors, but also allies and friends”. Myers Brown, Curator of the Tennessee State Museum, has been presenting programs on the event for more than a year along with many others.  He created a special museum display on the subject and has assisted with other War of 1812 commerative events.  He will be on hand to help with this event. 

The war was declared on June 1, 1812 and continued on until the peace treaty was signed in Ghent, on December 24, 1814 and even after, due to the fact that the settlement news had not reached the armies.  The Battle of New Orleans, fought at Chalmette, La, is marked with a monument standing more than 70 feet tall.  It was the final land battle and cost the British 2,000 in loss of life and cost the United States 13 casualties.  In fact, the news of the victory for the Americans and the news of the peace treaty agreement reached the newspapers at the same time, both stories were reported simultaneously and therefore it was perceived by most people  that the British surrendered after our victorious land battle.  There are 17 monuments placed on battlefields to help us remember.  One of the original frigates, the Constitution is still in operation in Boston harbor.

During the conflict the young United States Navy proved how crucial it was to ensuring freedom of the seas.  By commemorating the bicentennial of the War of 1812, and the Star Spangled Banner, we will honor this legacy as these freedoms remain as critical to our country today as they were 200 years ago. Be sure to witness this commemoration at 1:00 p.m. each day of the special event.  Watch for character reenactors portraying the major players of the War of 1812.  Robert Nichols, of Ft. Campbell, Ky. will bring his unit of ten re-enactors dressed in the costume of 1812 soldiers.  There will be a historic fashion show following the central program each day.  For more information on the War of 1812 visit the U S Navy’s website on the event at www.ourflagwasstillthere.org.    

For more information regarding the Daniel Smith Days event call 824-0502 or visit wwwhistoricrockcastle.com.  Historic Rock Castle is located in Hendersonville at 139 Rock Castle Lane.  Hours are Saturday 9 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sunday 10 a.m.–4 p.m.