Forsyth's Rifles (1st Regiment of Rifles)

The re-enacted Forsyth's Rifles is modeled after the 1st Regiment of Rifles, US Army. Between 1812 and 1813 the original unit was stationed in Ogdensburg under the command of Captain Benjamin Forsyth. The mission was to protect the surrounding area from the British for and to keep watch for military movement on and along the St. Lawrence River. Forsyth's Rifles were involved in raids across the St. Lawrence River, burning military stores in British territory, capturing arms and ammunition, rescuing some captured Americans and taking Canadian hostages. However, the British and Canadians retaliated, and Forsyth and his riflemen to Sackets Harbor.

1st Regiment of US Light Artillery

The re-enacted 1st Regiment of US Light Artillery is based on an military unit of the early 19th century. An April 12, 1808 Act of Congress provided for an addition of one regiment of light artillery to the military establishment. Up until this time, American artillery units used large, heavy guns that were cumbersome to transport and maneuver. The smaller caliber guns of the light artillery (also known as horse artillery) were highly mobile pieces easily moved on the battlefield. The light artillery became an integral and very effective arm of the United States Military.

During the War of 1812, the 1st (and only) Regiment of Light Artillery went from a new, untested force to a unit of seasoned veterans. The regiment participated in 10 major engagements in the Northern theater of operations. The regiment displayed flexibility, acting as mobile field artillery and even naval artillery during General Wilkinson's campaign of 1813 on the St. Lawrence River.

Following the War of 1812, several military reorganizations occurred, and the 1st Regiment of US Light Artillery was eliminated. However, descendants of the 1st Regiment carried on in the army with new designations. Some descendants of the 1st Light Artillery Regiment fought in the Mexican War, US Civil War, the Spanish American War, and the World Wars.

Ebenezer Stevens Independent Battalion of Continental Artillery

The re-enacted artillery unit portrays the time period of the American Revolution, During the Revolutionary War (1775-1783), Ebenezer Stevens commanded the Independent Battalion of Continental Artillery which served admirably in the Northern Department. Stevens, a Son of Liberty, was promoted to Captain within a short time of his commission in the army. After three years, Stevens was granted the brevet rank of lieutenant-colonel of foot for his work as commanding officer of the artillery.