Battle of Craney Island on tap to be remembered at Hoffler Creek

Posted June 14, 2010
By Brittany Brown
Norfolk District Public Affairs

06/14/2010 - PORTSMOUTH, Va. — The Hoffler Creek Wildlife Foundation will be hosting an anniversary celebration June 20 from 10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. of the victory of American forces over British troops at the Battle of Craney Island.

Militia re-enactors, local historians, naval exhibits and children's activities are included in the program, scheduled to take place at the Hoffler Creek Wildlife Preserve, land that figured prominently in the 1813 battle that raged 137 years ago.

On hand for the day will be re-enactors from the 2nd Virginia Regiment Militia and the 20th U.S. Infantry. Both will demonstrate musket firing and will talk with visitors about the life of Virginia soldiers during the War of 1812. Local historians will address the context of the battle and relate it to other battles waged during what many describe as the "the second American Revolution." The Portsmouth Naval Shipyard Museum will also exhibit displays and maps, and will engage children in interactive crafts of the period.

Boy Scout Troop 219 will provide the honor guard during opening and closing ceremonies during the event, which happens to fall on Father's Day.

"We think a trip to Hoffler Creek will make a great Fathers Day gift," says Randi Strutton, executive director of the non-profit foundation. "It's a chance to enjoy the outdoors, to learn a little history and to exercise the imagination — all for free! What dad wouldn't love that?"

Hoffler Creek Wildlife Preserve is a site on the National Park Service's Star-Spangled Banner Geo-Caching Trail and in line to join the National Star-Spangled Banner Trail, now limited to sites only in Maryland. A state historical marker at the gate of the preserve commemorates the Battle of Craney Island in the war that inspired The National Anthem and that secured America's independence from England.

Visitors planning to attend the free event at the 142-acre wildlife preserve are advised to wear shoes and socks, a hat, sunscreen and insect repellent.

For more information about Hoffler Creek programs and kayak rentals, contact the foundation at 757-686-8684, E-mail at hofflercreek@hofflercreek.org, or go online by visiting www.hofflercreek.org.