War of 1812 Historic Sites Tour July 16, 2011

If you’re interested in the historic opportunity to visit dozens of War of 1812 sites around the Great Lakes with other War of 1812 enthusiasts, you’re in luck. Some seats are still open for this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, but the registration deadline is fast approaching.

For ten days in July, experience the Great Lakes War of 1812 Historic Sites Motorcoach Tour, sponsored by the Michigan Commission on the Commemoration of the Bicentennial of the War of 1812 and the Michigan Council for History Education, a K-University teacher organization.

From July 16 to July 25, 2011, registered participants will visit strategic War of 1812 historic sites in states and provinces around the Great Lakes, hearing historic commentary throughout the tour by Michigan Commissioner Dr. Jim McConnell.

“This tour provides a great opportunity to visit many fascinating and important Great Lakes historic sites related to the War of 1812,” said Phil Porter, commission chairman and director of Mackinac State Historic Parks.

Stops include River Raisin Battlefield National Park, Michigan; Fort Meigs, Fort Stephenson, and the Perry Memorial on Put-in-Bay, Ohio; the Niagara replica in Erie, Pennsylvania; and many key sites near Niagara Falls, New York and Ontario. Also in Ontario, tour participants will be entertained at the Brock Monument, the Battlefield of Lundy’s Lane, Fort Erie, the Battlefield of Stoney Creek, historic Fort York, the ship, Nancy, and Fort St. Joseph, the site where the British launched their successful attack on American-held Fort Mackinac on Mackinac Island, Michigan. A full day on Mackinac Island, with a special tour of Fort Mackinac, will culminate the activities. Fort Mackinac saw the first battle on U.S. Territory during the War of 1812.

“Visits to these sites will provide visitors with a better understanding and appreciation of this important historical event and its impact on the history of these Great Lakes states and the province of Ontario,” said Porter.

The price, which includes lodging, most meals, and admission to more than thirty historic sites, is $1,812. For a detailed tour brochure or more information, email McConnell at [email protected] or visit www.michigan.gov/war1812.

The Michigan Commission on the Commemoration of the Bicentennial of the War of 1812 is charged with encouraging, planning, and developing activities, events, programs, observances and services appropriate to commemorate Michigan's role in the War of 1812. More information can be found at www.michigan.gov/war1812.