Ever since the rebirth of Canalside, there have been those who have been suggesting that certain elements of the history of the site should play a greater role in the overall story.
Over 200 years ago, Buffalonians paid tribute to the masterful accomplishments of Commodore Oliver Hazard Perry, who was the driving figure behind the Lake Erie Campaign of 1813. 100 years ago the site of the Buffalo Harbor (now Canalside) once again lit up with week long celebration that recognized the accomplishments of Perry and his men. The Battle of Lake Erie was such a notable feat that Buffalonians hailed the achievement with plenty of pomp and circumstance, including a giant parade along Main Street (100 years after the battle).
Over the years, the legendary tales of Perry slowly died out, and today most Buffalonians wouldn’t be able to tell you who Perry was, or what his accomplishments were. Today his statue still stands tall at Front Park, though that is about all that remains of his stoic victory.
According to local historians, the time has come once again, to recognize Perry (the man) and Canalside (the site) for the roles that they played in shaping the future of this city and the country. These same historians have shared with us a few of the reasons that Canalside is so important as a historic landmark:
- The site where the cross-lake raid to capture two British ships off Fort Erie originated in October 1812.
- Perry’s departure point along the lake ice westward to take command at Erie in March 1813.
- Was a key transit point for men and supplies for the Lake Erie Naval squadron throughout 1813.
- The site of Perry and his fleet’s triumphant return after the Battle of Lake Erie – followed by his repatriation of the captured British captain to Canada – which set the tone for the eventual peace between Canada, US and Britain.
A renewed interest in the tale of Perry, and the reawakening of his spirit, could come in the form a new documentary that is being screened at The Buffalo History Museum on Wednesday, March 16.
Based on years of research and scouting for upcoming films about Commodore Oliver Hazard Perry and the Battle of Lake Erie, the producing team will give a presentation highlighting the specific activities of Perry and the locations in Western New York that played key roles in the decisive Lake Erie Campaign of 1813.
Perry’s naval endeavors placed control of Lake Erie into US hands. Now it’s time to retell the same story that has been revered for generations. Come learn about a real historic figure that, at the age of 28, set out to battle the British fleets on the waters of Lake Erie. The man returned as a hero to the nation, and a local celebrity whose name would ring through the streets for all time… or so it was thought.
Commodore Perry Documentary: Behind the Scenes
Wednesday, March 16, 2016 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
One Museum Court – The Buffalo History Museum, Buffalo, NY
Members free; museum admission.