OFN presents 'Soldiers through the Ages'

Spend Memorial Day with soldiers from years past as Old Fort Niagara tells the story of its occupation from the colonial era through 1963 when the last military units were withdrawn. "Soldiers through the Ages" is Saturday, May 29, and Sunday, May 30, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

"When seeing soldiers from a variety of different time periods, it illustrates how expansive Old Fort Niagara's history is," said Robert Emerson, executive director at Old Fort Niagara. "This is our only event that packs 200 years of military history into a single weekend and one of the few places you will see 18th century British mingle with World War II infantry."

The weekend event features exhibits and interactive presentations showcasing 200 years of uniforms, weapons and tentage. Find out how tactics of the 18th century French compares with those used by the Americans in World War II through one of the tactical demonstrations scheduled. In addition to seeing soldiers through the ages, meal rations from salt pork and biscuits to MREs will also be highlighted.

The French, British and United States each held control of Fort Niagara during the 18th and early 19th century before it was finally ceded back to the United States for the final time at the end of the War of 1812, which was the Fort's last armed conflict. Thereafter, the fort served as peaceful border post. The garrison expanded beyond the walls following the Civil War and Fort Niagara later served as a barracks and training station for American soldiers throughout both World Wars. The last army units were withdrawn in 1963 and today, the U.S. Coast Guard is the only military presence on the site.

Admission to Old Fort Niagara is $10 for adults and $6 for children ages 6-12. For more information, visit www.oldfortniagara.org or call 716-745-7611.