June 18, 1812: Let the war begin

200 years ago today -- June, 18, 1812 -- the United States declared war on Great Britain, beginning what is now known as the War of 1812 or the "Second War of Independence."  Kentuckians eagerly joined the fight with almost 26,000 volunteers.  By war's end much Kentucky blood had been shed, especially at the humiliating defeat at the Battle of the River Raisin in January of 1813.

MCHS recently hosted speaker John Trowbridge, who is highly knowledgeable about Kentucky and the War of 1812.  His talk and the discussion that followed gave members a deeper understanding of the sacrifices made by Kentuckians in this war. The June/July issue of Kentucky Monthly includes an article by Ron Soodalter entitled, "Remembering the Raisin:  Kentucky's Role in the War of 1812."  A thoughtful essay about the war is found in June's Smithsonian. This article, by Tony Horwitz, also refers to this horrific battle in its title -- "The War of 1812:  Remember the Raisin."  Let us remember the Kentuckians who fought in this war as well as the lessons learned during this conflict.

Heritage Highlights and Membership Dues

The latest issue of Heritage Highlights is about to be published -- look for it in your mailboxes very soon!

In addition to all the wonderful articles, Heritage Highlights will contain the MCHS membership renewal form. Be sure to fill out the form and renew your dues.

Finally -- our next membership meeting is scheduled for Thursday, April 19, at 7 p.m. at Central Bank. More on that meeting soon.

New programs for 2012

The Madison County Historical Society is now planning events for 2012!

We will be remembering anniversaries during this year -- the 200th anniversary of the War of 1812 and the 150th anniversary of the Battle of Richmond. We will also have a program the history of education in Madison County as well as one on Madison's heritage. As always, there will be the Society's annual picnic the first weekend in August. Check the webpage for more information in the near future. Meanwhile, have a happy holiday!

2009 Picnic

The turnout for the picnic was great. The weather was perfect, cool, but not rainy; food was good; and a lot was accomplished at the board meeting.

The board discussed repairs needed at Old Cane Springs. Some things are being done now, but they repairs may be very extensive and costly as they involve the brickwork on the back corner of the building.

They also discussed the furniture that is on loan to the City of Richmond at Irvinton. The city wants an appraisal for insurance purposes. The board felt that it was the responsibility of the city to hire an appraiser and the MCHS will not cover that expense.

A committee of Charles Hay (chair), Bill Adams and Dean Whitaker was appointed to oversee property owned by the historical society.

Another committee was appointed to research the possibility of reprinting When the Ripe Pears Fell. The Battle of Richmond museum has many requests for this title. Ed Ford (chair), Paul Seyfrit and Paul Rominger were appointed to study the possibilities.

Walk of Fame plaques are being installed this week and the dedication date is August 22, 2009 at 9:00 am.

The slide show for the speaker presentation can be reached by clicking the image below.

MCHS Presentation

View more presentations from libcoutu.

How to Join

To contribute to this blog you need to be a member and to do that we'll need your email address. Email us at mchs1787atgmaildotcom and we'll get back to you as soon as possible with the invitation email.

October Meeting

October 16th at 6:30 at the Kentucky Artisan Center, Dr. Lindsay Apple, professor emeritus of history at Georgetown College—The Clay Family Legacy: A Duty To Country.

Also learn about some of the exciting new projects the historical society is working on right now.

Picnic at Old Cane Springs

August 2nd at 6:30.

Come out and enjoy a good meal and learn the answer to the question, "What is a Kentuckian?"

Contact Charles Hay to make reservations.