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Role of Parks Canada in the War of 1812 Commemorations St. Andrews Blockhouse National Historic Site
The St. Andrews Blockhouse National Historic Site and the Carleton Martello Tower in Saint John are two primary Parks Canada national historic sites offering many special programs, events and activities in commemoration of the War of 1812.
Role of Parks Canada in the War of 1812 Commemorations
The Government of Canada’s commemoration of the War of 1812 constitutes an important opportunity for Parks Canada to showcase its national historic sites, historical interpreters and programs in an authentic and powerful way, and to help Canadians understand the events and stories of this important historical period.
At Parks Canada locations, visitors can personally experience many of the most important sites of the war’s battles and skirmishes. Parks Canada’s team is welcoming visitors to experience these dramatic landscapes, forts and buildings and the everyday life of those who lived during the 1812 period.
Learning Experiences for Youth
The Blockhouse building includes two areas furnished with period furniture and decor: a barracks room and a storage loft. Both illustrate the Spartan lifestyle of soldiers manning the outpost. Parks Canada interpreters are available on-site during the summer season to further reveal the Blockhouse's history.
There is a series of six illustrated interpretive panels at various points on the grounds of the Blockhouse. These help visitors gain an understanding of the significance of the War of 1812; the nature and use of a blockhouse; and demonstrate what everyday life was like in a garrison town.
The live cannon firing demonstration during the Commemoration event is provided by Parks Canada staff employed with the Citadel Historic Site of Canada. They are dressed in period uniform and trained to follow the standards and practices of firing cannons during the 1812 period and adhere to safety protocols.
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Role of Parks Canada in the War of 1812 Commemorations
The Government of Canada’s commemoration of the War of 1812 constitutes an important opportunity for Parks Canada to showcase its national historic sites, historical interpreters and programs in an authentic and powerful way, and to help Canadians understand the events and stories of this important historical period.
At Parks Canada locations, visitors can personally experience many of the most important sites of the war’s battles and skirmishes. Parks Canada’s team is welcoming visitors to experience these dramatic landscapes, forts and buildings and the everyday life of those who lived during the 1812 period.
Learning Experiences for Youth
The Blockhouse building includes two areas furnished with period furniture and decor: a barracks room and a storage loft. Both illustrate the Spartan lifestyle of soldiers manning the outpost. Parks Canada interpreters are available on-site during the summer season to further reveal the Blockhouse's history.
There is a series of six illustrated interpretive panels at various points on the grounds of the Blockhouse. These help visitors gain an understanding of the significance of the War of 1812; the nature and use of a blockhouse; and demonstrate what everyday life was like in a garrison town.
The live cannon firing demonstration during the Commemoration event is provided by Parks Canada staff employed with the Citadel Historic Site of Canada. They are dressed in period uniform and trained to follow the standards and practices of firing cannons during the 1812 period and adhere to safety protocols.
News Release associated with this Backgrounder.
