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War of 1812 Living History Encampment

Hear the roar of the cannons and the marching of soldiers as Wisconsin's only War of 1812 battle comes to life on the lawn of Villa Louis. Step into this recreated military encampment and immerse yourself in history and discover the story behind the British assault on Fort Shelby on July 17, 1814. Walk in the soldiers' footsteps during battlefield walking tours at 10:30 a.m., followed by a battle narration at 2:30 p.m.

Explore the lives of the early French-Canadian residents of Prairie du Chien through story, dance and music with "Frenchtown Jig." Dancer, actor and historian Jane Peck performs with dancer and fiddler Danielle Enblom, and a guest musician, in this interactive show that will get you moving and smiling. They bring years of experience on Minneapolis and Canadian stages to this festival.

Along with the entertainment, admission to the event includes a tour of the Villa Louis mansion.

SATURDAY SCHEDULE:

10 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Tours of the Villa Louis Mansion (offered continuously)

10 a.m. - Grand Parade & Morning Colors

10:30 a.m. - Infantry and Artillery drill and inspection

11 a.m. - 2 p.m. - Hands-on Archeology (offered continuously)

11 a.m. - 4 p.m. Period Lawn Games (offered continuously)

11:30 a.m. - Battlefield Walking Tour - meet at Brisbois Fur Warehouse

2:30 p.m. - Battle Scenario - Battle of Prairie du Chien, with Mary Antoine narrating

​4 p.m. - Evening Colors

 

SUNDAY SCHEDULE:

10 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Tours of the Villa Louis Mansion available

10 a.m. - Grand Parade and Morning Colors

10:30 a.m. - Battlefield Walking Tour- meet at Brisbois Fur Warehouse

11 a.m. - 2 p.m. - Hands-on Archeology (offered continuously)

11 a.m. - 4 p.m. Period Lawn Games (offered continuously)

11:30 a.m. - Musket Reliability Contest

12:30 p.m. - French Canadian music performance and workshop

2:30 p.m. - Battle Scenario - Battle of Prairie du Chien, with Mary Antoine narrating

​3:30 p.m. - Evening Colors

 

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