Celebration Of The 197th Anniversary Of Battle Of Stonington

Nine Score and Seventeen Years Ago: Stonington Observes

The 197th Anniversary of the Battle of Stonington

At the Old Lighthouse on Saturday, Aug. 13

In August 1814, a powerful British naval squadron appeared off Stonington harbor and began to bombard the little village. Unlike other towns along the Atlantic coast, Stonington fought back and the British withdrew, somewhat bruised.

It was one of the few items of good news for Americans during the War of 1812, and Stonington has made sure over the years that the battle is remembered.

Again this year there will be a gathering on the grounds of the Old Lighthouse Museum at the base of Water Street in Stonington Borough for picnicking, music, and celebration, sponsored by the Stonington Historical Society. The observance is at 4 p.m., rain or shine, on Saturday, Aug. 13.  The event is free and open to the public.

Meredith M. Brown, a recent president of the society, will recount the heroism of Jeremiah Holmes, who commanded the battery that fought off the British. Holmes, a native of Mystic, learned his gunnery – and his hatred of the British – from having been impressed into the Royal Navy.

Geoff Kaufman, the popular chanteyman and folksinger, will again appear, with songs from the 1812 era, and at least one new offering related to the Battle of Stonington.

In addition, there will be a treasure hunt for children and access to the Old Lighthouse Museum itself, where there will be special exhibits related to the battle.  Admission to the lighthouse will be free from 3:30 to 6 p.m.