BATTLE RE-ENACTED IN COLD

OGDENSBURG — On Saturday, the smell of black powder filled the air at Lighthouse Point as the War of 1812's Battle of Ogdensburgh was relived by more than 100 re-enactors.

The battle that took place Feb. 22, 1813, between Americans and British was remembered when re-enactors from across New York and Canada gathered in frigid weather to pay homage to the historical event that allowed the British to control trade routes along the St. Lawrence River.

Timothy W. Cryderman, vice president of Forsyth's Rifles, a re-enactment group based in Ogdensburg that hosted the event that was part of the River Shiver winter festival, said the turnout — about 50 spectators — was excellent despite frigid air.

"I think it's great," he said. "We have a good number on both sides."

While most spectators watched from heated vehicles, 20 or so braved the weather.

A father and son from the Brockville, Ontario, area traveled across the border to witness the event. Evan P. Hogan, 17, said this was the first time he's been to the re-enactment, but it wouldn't be his last.

"It's really fascinating to see what happened here so long ago, both for the Canadians and Americans," he said.

His father, Allan T. Hogan, said they have witnessed re-enactments of the Battle of Gettysburgh twice and were excited to have an opportunity to witness a battle so close to home.

"We really enjoy this kind of stuff," he said.