Following the outbreak of war between the United States and Great Britain in June 1812, Sackets Harbor became the center of American naval and military activity for the upper St. Lawrence Valley and Lake Ontario.  The brig Oneida, with a company of marines, was already at the harbor to suppress smuggling between northern New York and Canada.  Local woodlands provided ample timber, and a large fleet was constructed at the harbors extensive shipyard.  Barracks were also built for the thousands of soldiers, sailors, and mechanics who soon arrived to provide the manpower for the invasion and conquest of Canada.

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Today the Sackets Harbor Battlefield is interpreted to the public by exhibits, outdoor signs, guided and self-guided tours, and a restored 1850's Navy Yard and Commandant's House.  During the summer months, guides dressed in military clothing of 1813 reenact the camp life of the common soldier.

Memorial Tree Grove Dedicated in 1913

Stop in the Memorial Tree Grove to read the Centennial Monument inscription. The monument was dedicated in 1913 on the 100th anniversary of the May 29, 1813 Battle of Sackets Harbor. The tree grove was established in 1905, as citizens prepared for the monument dedication when Assistant Secretary of the Navy Franklin D. Roosevelt addressed the crowd.

	2012 Marks the 200th Anniversary of the War of 1812.

Plan to Observe This Occasion With Us!

Observe the Bicentennial of the War of 1812 with us in 2012. We'll soon provide our schedule of events for the bicentennial, along with popular websites of those who are observing the battle with us, and a place for volunteers to sign up.