Watch CBS News

New Exhibit On Philadelphia's Role In War Of 1812 Opens At Seaport Museum

By Paul Kurtz

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - Independence Seaport Museum is opening a new exhibit today to mark the 200th anniversary of the War of 1812.

To many Americans, it's the forgotten war.  Nearly thirty years after the end of the Revolutionary War, America was battling the British again.

And Seaport Museum curator Craig Bruns says Philadelphia was right in the thick of it.  William Bainbridge, Steven Girard and Steven Decatur were among the local heroes.

"We have a tray and we have a wine cooler, and they are both beautiful, beautiful silver objects," Burns tells KYW Newsradio, "and they were given to Steven Decatur by the people of Philadelphia. We also have Decatur's hat and buttons from his uniform."

Listen to Paul Kurtz's full interview with Craig Burns in this CBS Philly podcast...

Podcast

Download podcast for later listening

The exhibit also features the first printed song sheet of "The Star Spangled Banner," and interactive cannon that visitors can fire.

"Home of the Brave: the War of 1812" runs through the end of December.

 

 

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.