Old Fort Niagara

On Friday we took a trip to Old Fort Niagara.  It was a wee bit cold and windy but the kids were troopers and enjoyed the day. We learned about the history of the fort and the kids were given a bit of instruction in the life of the soldiers who would have occupied this fort.  They learned about the effectiveness (or lack thereof) of the musket, why rifles were not used in combat, why battles were fought how they were at the time and now to properly hold and fire a musket.  I do believe the portion of the day that was spent with the muskets and learning from the French soldier will be the most remembered portion of the trip.

We also learned of the connection between Fort Niagara and The Star-Spangled Banner, although I'm pretty sure the kids have already forgotten.  Like I said, the muskets were the big rage.

We would have stayed a bit longer to explore after our tour but it was getting rather cold and a few kids were complaining about not being able to feel their fingers or something.  So we headed off to drop in on my grandparents for a bit instead.  Nothing like brownies, candy and soda to warm the kids back up.

I'd love to head back to the Fort in slightly warmer weather or perhaps when they are holding one of their reenactments and take Alan with us.  I have a feeling he'd enjoy it.