Battlefield House (Stoney Creek, Ontario) facts for kids
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| Established | 1962 |
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| Location | Stoney Creek, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada. |
| Type | National Historic Site of Canada |
Battlefield House, also known as Gage House, is a really old and important house in Stoney Creek, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada. It's a special museum where you can learn about history, especially the War of 1812. This house was built way back in 1796. It's famous because a big battle, called the Battle of Stoney Creek, happened right here on June 6, 1813. Today, Battlefield House is part of a beautiful park and is a National Historic Site.
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Battlefield House: A Historic Place
What is Battlefield House?
Battlefield House is a special museum that helps us understand life a long time ago. It's located near King Street East and Centennial Parkway. The house and its surrounding park, called Battlefield Park, cover about 15.5 acres (6.3 hectares). For many years, a group called the Women's Wentworth Historical Society took care of the property. In 1962, they gave it to the Niagara Parks Commission. The park itself was named a National Historic Site in 1960.
Exploring the Park
The historic site sits on about 32 acres (13 hectares) of park land. It is nestled right under the Niagara Escarpment. You can even find a path that connects to the famous Bruce Trail here. Inside the park, you'll also see the tall Battlefield Monument. There is also another historic building called the Grandview (Nash-Jackson House). Just across King Street East from the park is Smith's Knoll Cemetery. This cemetery is another important historical spot nearby.
The Battle of Stoney Creek
What Happened in the War of 1812?
The War of 1812 was a conflict between the United States and the British, along with their allies. It happened between 1812 and 1815. One very important event during this war was the Battle of Stoney Creek. This battle took place on June 6, 1813, right where Battlefield House stands today.
The Night Attack
During the Battle of Stoney Creek, British soldiers launched a surprise night attack. They moved quietly on an American army camp. The British managed to capture two American generals. This made the Americans think the British army was much bigger than it actually was. Because of this, the British won the battle. This victory was a very important moment for the British. It helped them defend Upper Canada (which is now part of Ontario).
Re-enactments and Events
Reliving History
For many years, a special event was held at Battlefield House. During the first weekend in June, people would gather for a re-enactment of the Battle of Stoney Creek. Re-enactors dressed in old uniforms. They represented both the British and American soldiers. They would show everyone how the battle might have looked. The 2016 event was the 35th time this re-enactment had taken place.
Recent History of Re-enactments
The re-enactments planned for 2020, 2021, and 2022 were cancelled. This was due to concerns about the COVID-19 pandemic. There was also some construction happening at Battlefield House. For a short time, it seemed like the re-enactments might be stopped forever. However, as of 2025, these exciting re-enactments have started again! The events for 2025 are scheduled for the weekend of June 7-8. You can see them at Battlefield House and Park.
Museum Connections
The Battlefield House museum is connected with several important organizations. These include the CMA. It also works with the CHIN. And it is part of the Virtual Museum of Canada. These connections help the museum share its history with more people.
Images for kids
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Battle of Stoney Creek
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Stoney Creek Battlefield House
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Battlefield Park Entrance
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Re-enactors (in UK uniforms) fire muskets toward the "Americans" in annual commemorations
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Battlefield House in Stoney Creek, 1959
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Battlefield House in Stoney Creek, 1959
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See also
In Spanish: Casa Battlefield (Stoney Creek) para niños
