Since getting the National Park Passport a few years ago and more so the National Park Pass this year, we have been trying to hit National Parks. There are several in Ohio but none that were on our way to Michigan. However, there was one in Michigan on the way to Midland. I told the hubby we needed to stop mainly because I wanted the stamp (and Heather was there).
River Raisin National Battlefield in xxx Michigan is a relatively new National Park. River Raisin is the site of a War of 1812 battle. According to Wikipedia, "During the winter of 1813 as part of the War of 1812, the Battle of Frenchtown occurred near the river. British and Native American troops were allied against a division of ill-trained Kentucky infantry and militia. Cut off and surrounded and facing total slaughter, Winchester surrendered with British assurances of safety of the prisoners. The British and Potawatomi allies marched those who could walk to Detroit. But the next day, many of the severely wounded prisoners left in Frenchtown were killed by the Native Americans allies of the British."
We got there in time to see an introduction video explain the battle. There is a little museum inside the Visitor Center.
The hubby didn’t think there was much else to the battlefield so we didn’t actually explore the grounds. However, the actual battlefield is outside. Off to the left, was a trail which I really wanted to check out but the hubby wanted to get back on the road. Personally I’d rather have explored the ground than watched the movie.
Also you saw the actual battlefield and the enemy line. That was cool. I actually got to step foot on the battlefield and cross the enemy line. The hubby stayed in the car.
River Raisin may be a small National Park but for a history buff it is very interesting. I am not sure how you could keep children entertained inside but they can run around on the battlefield. The National Park is free so if you’re in the area, it’s always worth checking out since it’s a few minutes off the highway.
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