Spring Muster: Living History Encampment & Demonstration

Monroe, Michigan – The River Raisin National Battlefield Park will be hosting the Friends of the River Raisin Battlefield event Spring Muster: Living History Encampment and Demonstrations on Saturday, May 20, 2023, running from 11am until 4pm.

Experience history come to life as you walk through the 1812 encampment and displays, mini militia for kids, and enjoy the variety of demonstrations, including black powder firing, period cooking, weaving, gunsmithing and more! The event is free.

Location:

River Raisin National Battlefield Park

Visitor Center Grounds

333 North Dixie Highway

Monroe, MI 48162.

History of the Spring Muster & Anniversary of Captain Herbert Lacroix’s Company of Michigan Volunteers

At the start of the War of 1812, Michigan was defended by small garrisons of U.S. troops, backed up by the 1^st & 2^nd Michigan Militia Regiments and the Legionary Corps of Michigan Volunteers.  These forces were soon joined by General Hull’s army of U.S. regulars and Ohio militia volunteers.

At the River Raisin, Hubert Lacroix was elected captain of an 80-man company.  Mustered into service on May 18, 1812, Lacroix’s Company became part of the Legionary Corps & was assigned to guard the settlement, escort the mails, and help build Hull’s Road to Detroit. Lacroix’s Company participated in General Hull’s opening campaign of the War of 1812, guiding the army, and participating in the Battles of Brownstown and Monguagan.  The surrender of General Hull at Detroit on August 16, 1812 ended Lacroix Company’s official term of service, although members continued to serve in an ad-hoc manner through the Battles of the River Raisin in January of the following year.