I had never been to an 1812 reenactment before. My friend, Michael, takes part and invited me to come and see what this epic event was all about. Since it was in my back yard (Cooks Mills is part of Welland) how could I pass up the opportunity?
As I set out on a very grey, chilly Saturday morning I wasn’t sure what I was going to find. But, I must say, the City of Welland did an amazing job of promoting and organizing the marking of this historic anniversary. Free parking was available at 2 off-site locations with wagons acting as shuttles to bring us to the battle site. A lovely way to start the adventure.
Upon arriving we were greeted with smiling folks who explained what we were about to experience and handed out maps of the encampment. A few steps up a small hill and there we were … back in 1814 (well, minus the bleachers and the public address system). There were lots of American and British soldiers as well as townsfolk milling about.
The Drum Corps played, the marchers marched and the battle was epic. And, though the skies were very grey, the rain held off! As the “dead” were carried off and the piccolos played a hymn for the fallen of Cooks Mills, our Canadian hearts swelled with pride and gratitude to those who sacrificed their lives for this nation.
Enjoy!
nancybphotography.ca 905 941-0706 
Fantastic shots! I was one of the reenactors here, in fact you even got a photo of me!
I’m glad you like them, Alex. Which one are you? I will email the pic to you.
I the guy in green sitting down: https://nancybphotography.files.wordpress.com/2014/10/009.jpg?w=870&h=600
AWESOME photos, like how you got the camp life photos as well as the battle shots, thore were nice with just the waft of smoke in the air. Thank-you for sharing!
Great pics. It was too damp and cold for me to attend. Best shot of a cannon firing I have seen in many years!
Reblogged this on CooksMills.com and commented:
Nancy, your pictures are fabulous. I am so glad your friend encouraged you to make the trip to Cook’s Mills.
Thank you Nancy for a beautiful display of our Re-enactment. Marilyn Daniels, 1812 Bicentennial Committee
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Simply fantastic .
I was there volunteering and I also live very close to the Peace park. I have lived out here for 60 years and I am so greatful of this great event.
Amazing photos!! I was 1 of the many volunteers. Thank you for sharing.
Fantastic pictures! Where are the Americans?
Great job!
Thanks! The Americans are in dark blue with white pants.
Great pics, my husband and I are reenactors and you have a picture of us as well. The gentleman in the grey greatcoat and myself in the Hudson’s Bay blanket capote. Would love to have the pic by email.
Absolutely amazing pictures Nancy! Thanks so much for coming to the event and for posting your photos on your blog. I was the fellow with the sick little girl. (off the field). On the battle field I was with the British forces as the lone representative of the 82nd regiment, and wearing the yellow cuffs and collar on my red coat.
Our first re-enactment. Your photos are stunning. Thanks for sharing them. Our grandson attended with us. He’ll be thrilled to see them. Thanks again.
Stunning photos, Nancy! As a member of the Welland War of 1812 Bicentennial Committee who organized the re-enactment, I am so pleased to have this wonderful visual record of the event.
What great pictures. Thanks for sharing them.