About the Event
Walk between the rows of tents, hear battle stories by the fire, and dive into this early 19th Century military encampments as all of it comes to life in stunning splendor on the Villa Louis main lawn, where the only War of 1812 battle was fought in Wisconsin. Step into a recreated soldier encampment that includes a traveling forge, period game, crafts and cooking. Come spend the day and immerse yourself in the three-day siege by the British on Fort Shelby that began on July 17, 1814.
But there’s more than just battlefield history to see at this encampment—you’ll also have an opportunity to explore the lives of the early French-Canadian residents of Prairie du Chien through story, dance and music with a “A Voyageur’s Tale.” See the history of Wisconsin and the Upper Midwest come alive as French voyageur and fur trader “Jean-Christophe” paddles and dances his way from Quebec to the Mississippi River through land that was once called New France. Meet Jean-Christophe's French-Ojibwe family and discover how the customs, clothing, and dance of these two cultures blended to inform our regional heritage. The audience will have the opportunity to learn French words, sing a voyageur song, and master canoe paddle tricks! Volunteers will dance a historic dance game to live fiddle music.
A popular school and festival show, A Voyageur’s Tale is reenacted by two dancers and a fiddler. Dancer, actor and historian Jane Peck will perform with musicians Gary Schultz and Paulino Brenner during this interactive show that’s sure to put you on your feet. With countless years of experience, Peck, Schultz and Brenner will demonstrate the rich cultural roots of early French-Canadian settlers in new and exciting ways.
Along with the entertainment, admission to the event includes a tour of the Villa Louis mansion. Food will be available for purchase on both days on the grounds.
COST
Single Day Cost
Adult (18-64): $17.50
Teen (13-17): $17.50
Senior (65+): $17.50
Child (5-12): $12.50
Child Under 5: Free
Weekend Cost
Adult (18-64): $20
Teen (13-17): $20
Senior (65+): $20
Child (5-12): $15
Child Under 5: Free
Tickets may also be purchased onsite.
Society members receive a 10% discount, please verify your membership where prompted to receive discount at check out.
PURCHASE TICKETS
Know Before You Go & Accessibility
Lunch food options will be available for purchase by the Friends of Villa Louis. This event will be held rain or shine. Guests with additional mobility needs are encouraged to contact Villa Louis directly at 608-326-2721 or villalouis@wisconsinhistory.org.
Contact
For more information, please contact the box office at 608-264-4848 or boxoffice@wisconsinhistory.org
About the Location
When you walk through the doors of Villa Louis, you step into the life of one of Wisconsin’s most historic families – the Dousmans. Located on the banks of the Mississippi River, Villa Louis offers a panorama of Wisconsin history, beginning with the arrival of early fur traders through the heyday of the Victorian era. Highlighted by the stunning 1871 Italianate style mansion, the 25-acre site includes over a dozen historic structures including the Dousman Office Building, Ice House, Preserve House, Blockhouse, and the foundations of the first Fort Crawford
