Watertown Post
By The Watertown Post
July 9, 2025 – Ogdensburg, NY
One of Northern New York’s most iconic historical reenactments is moving forward proudly — even as cross-border participation falters.
A Canadian reenactment group has officially bowed out of this year’s “Le Siège du Fort La Présentation” in Ogdensburg, an annual living history event commemorating the Battle of the Thousand Islands. Organizers confirmed the withdrawal but made it clear: the show of American heritage continues.
Since 1999, the reenactment has welcomed participants from both the U.S. and Canada, celebrating the area’s French, British, and early American roots. But this year, tensions between the two nations seem to have bled into the timeline.
“We really don’t know until the last minute who’s coming,” said Barbara O’Keefe of the Fort La Présentation Association. “But we’re still moving forward.”
The event marks the final major battle of the French and Indian War, when roughly 350 French troops held Fort Lévis against overwhelming British forces — said to number between 10,000 and 15,000. Though the French eventually surrendered, the bravery of their stand is woven into Ogdensburg’s history.
“This is about bringing history alive and showing people that it happened right here,” said organizer Tim Cryderman.
While some Canadian groups may still make the trip, organizers say the American side is more than prepared to carry the tradition with pride.
War of 1812 historian Patrick Wilder, known for his work chronicling the military and naval campaigns along the St. Lawrence River, says the timing is symbolic:
“It’s ironic, really. In the War of 1812, American forces pushed north against a stronger, more established British power. Today, even with some Canadians sitting this one out, Americans are again showing up — to honor the past and keep the torch of our own history burning. That matters.”
Wilder, a frequent speaker at Fort Ontario and Sackets Harbor, has spent decades documenting the region’s strategic role in shaping early American identity.
“Northern New York was once the edge of America,” Wilder added. “And events like this remind us that freedom didn’t just happen. It was earned — musket by musket, boat by boat, battle by battle.”
Despite the dropout, organizers say the weekend will feature a full schedule of reenactments, black powder demonstrations, vendors, and educational activities.
“Our event continues,” said Cryderman. “We welcome everyone — but we don’t depend on anyone. American history will be told either way.”
The Watertown Post will be on-site this weekend covering the action — because in this part of the country, the past is never forgotten.
About the Author
Thank you for another magnificent post. Where else could anybody get that type of information in such a perfect way of writing? I’ve a presentation next week, and I’m on the look for such information.