The Fort La Presentation Association will present “Le Siege du Fort de La Presentation” July 15 and 16 at the fort property on Van Rensselaer Point, located at 22 Albany Avenue, Ogdensburg.
This event celebrates the founding of the fort and the French history of Ogdensburg from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Sunday. A mass will be held at the Newell Family Archeological Site at 23 Commerce Lane at the fort site Sunday at 7:30 a.m. In case of rain, mass will be held at Notre Dame Church.
County Supervisor and historical author Jim Regan will present a short history of the French occupation during the Seven Years War at 1 p.m. prior to the battle on both days. At 1:30 p.m. Reagan will provide an overview of the battle as it develops. This year there will be two bateaux on site.
There will be demonstrations of blacksmithing, colonial lighting, candle making and flint knapping throughout the day. Each of these skills would have been essential during the 17th century. Additional demonstrations are: children’s game and toys, children’s muster and period fishing.
Visitors are encouraged to talk to re-enactors who have traveled from the U.S. and Canada to celebrate the rich French history in our own backyard. For the first time, the fort association is teaming with the Ogdensburg Chamber of Commerce to host “Fort Fest,” a craft and vendor fair, Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Admission for the events will be $5 for adults and $2 for children ages 6-16 and covers admission to the Fort Fest as well. Admission for the Sunday events will be $5 and free admission for children with paid adults.
fort1749.org 