Old Fort Niagara’s interpretive staff and volunteers and re-enacting units throughout the region will come together over Memorial Day weekend, May 27 and 28, to present “Soldiers through the Ages” at the historic landmark in Youngstown. This military timeline event traces the history of Fort Niagara from the early explorers of the 17th century through the mid-20th century. The event features special exhibits, camps, weapons and battle-tactic demonstrations.
“This event really kicks off the re-enactment season here at the fort,” said Robert Emerson, Executive Director of Old Fort Niagara. “It’s a unique chance for visitors to witness the spectrum of soldiers, weaponry, uniforms, food, vehicles and music that paraded across these historic grounds over three centuries. The event also ties in nicely with Memorial Day and honoring those who died defending our country.”
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| Photo by Wayne Peters |
Everything is included with regular admission to the fort and is free for members of the Old Fort Niagara Association. The schedule of activities for Saturday and Sunday follows:
10:15 a.m. Military Parade and Colors Ceremony
11:00 a.m. Small Arms Demonstration, 1645-1945, Matchlocks to M1s
Noon Artillery Demonstration
1:00 p.m. Military Uniforms and Weapons of the Flintlock Era
1:30 p.m. Hotshot Demonstration
2:00 p.m. Military Uniforms and Weapons of the 19th Century
2:30 p.m. Concert of Military Music
3:00 p.m. Military Uniforms and Weapons of the 20th Century
3:30 p.m. Small Unit Tactical Demonstration, The American Revolution vs. World War Two
4:15 p.m. Parade of Military Music
4:30 p.m. Retreat Ceremony
Ongoing exhibits and demonstrations: military vehicles, rations through the ages, living history camps, and militaria on display.
On Memorial Day, Monday, May 29, at 11:00 a.m., the VFW Lake Ontario Post 313 will hold a special memorial service at the historic Fort Niagara Cemetery. The public is invited and encouraged to attend.
The following special events follow “Soldiers through the Ages.”
June 3 & 4 RE-ENACTMENT Rebels & Redcoats
British and American Soldiers occupy the fort to bring the American Revolution to life.
July 1-3 RE-ENACTMENT French and Indian War Encampment
Old Fort Niagara's biggest event of the year! Multi-day battles between the French and British, hundreds of re-enactors, sutlers selling handmade wares, French, British and Native Camps, musket and cannon firings, period music, trades demonstrations.
Starting July 5 DAILY SUMMER PROGRAM
Daily programs highlight British presence at fort during the American Revolution; musket and cannon firings, field music, history interpretation
July 8-October 9 LIGHTHOUSE Open the Public (12-3 p.m. daily)
Free admission for visitors; must be at least 4 feet tall and sign a waiver
Old Fort Niagara is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. through June and from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. in July and August. Admissions end 30 minutes before closing. Regular admission to the fort is $12 per adult, $8 per child ages 6-12, free for children 5 and under, and free to members of the Old Fort Niagara Association.
Old Fort Niagara (www.oldfortniagara.org) is a Registered National Historic Landmark and New York State Historic Site operated by the Old Fort Niagara Association (a not-for-profit organization) in cooperation with the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and YouTube.