Canadians and the Other War of 1812: 1812 Dinner Series with Major Grodzinski Canadians have been pretty focused on their own War of 1812 as of late, with the bicentennial fast approaching.  In Europe it’s a different war of the same name that has everyone talking – the War of 1812 that inspired an overture.

But did you know that Canadians fought in both 1812 wars?

Join Major John R. Grodzinski of the Royal Military College on Sunday, January 21, 2012 on an historical odyssey covering the battle of Waterloo, perhaps history’s most famous battle.

Using the lavish 1970 epic by Russian filmmaker Sergei Bondarchuck as a backdrop to his talk, Major Grodzinski will provide a brief overview of the Waterloo campaign, including the stories of several Canadians who fought in the battle, and examine the challenges and pitfalls of depicting history in film with references to the movie depicting Napoleon’s return to France and the Duchess of Richmond’s Ball, which was held on the eve of the campaign.

In Bondarchuck’s pre-CGI treatment of the 100 day campaign, over 16,000 Soviet soldiers were trained in 1815 style weapons drill and tactics, and represented the French, British, Dutch and German combatants. The cast included Rod Steiger as Napoleon, while Canadian Christopher Plummer played the Duke of Wellington. Everything about this film is spectacular.

Major John R. Grodzinski’s talk is part of the 1812 Dinner Series regularly hosted by the Spencerville Mill at the Red George Pub in Prescott. Join us for dinner or a drink, but be sure to reserve your space in advance – as there are only 20 spaces available.

Call the Red George at +1.613.925.8800 to save your place or visit www.celebrate1812.ca for more information.

And another from BrockNews: The Spencerville Mill is encouraging people to play dress up and bring history to life during their 'Heritage Fair' set for June 4th & 5th at the mill.

The Spencerville Mill is offering a series of events designed to engage the public in reliving history themselves – not just watch reenactments as bystanders.

Prizes are available to the individuals and organisations that are best at bringing history to life. For example, the Organisation that brings the Early Victorian period most to life will receive mention in the Mill’s July Calendar advertising. Competitors are asked to present themselves for pictures and inspection at the General Store in the Spencerville Mill during the Heritage Fair for entry.