River Raisin National Battlefield Park

National Treasure Visited #31 on Shea’s Ultimate American Quest
First Experienced During Quest On: September 2, 2024

River Raisin National Battlefield Park, located in Monroe, Michigan, preserves the site of one of the most significant—and tragic—battles of the War of 1812. Fought in January 1813, the Battle of the River Raisin saw American forces suffer a devastating defeat at the hands of British troops and their Native American allies. The aftermath, known as the “River Raisin Massacre,” galvanized American support for the war and gave rise to the rallying cry, “Remember the Raisin!”

As the only national battlefield from the War of 1812 and the first in Michigan, the park holds exceptional value as a place of national remembrance. It honors the bravery and sacrifice of soldiers and civilians, including many from Kentucky, who fought and died on this hallowed ground.

Today, visitors can explore walking trails, exhibits, and reconstructed features that help tell the story of conflict, loss, and resilience. River Raisin National Battlefield Park serves as both an educational resource and a solemn reminder of the costs of war and the enduring importance of preserving our shared national history.

Front view of the Palo Alto Battlefield National Historical Park Visitor Center. The building is single-story, with a large tree on the right side. Three flagpoles stand without flags. The path and parking area are gravel, and the sky is blue with scattered clouds.

Shea's Videos and Travel Journal Entries Tagged with River Raisin National Battlefield Park

Rapid Recap Thumbnail 17
Pressing eastward, I stopped in Monroe, MI, to visit a National Battlefield Park and found a Catholic Church with an impressive painted ceiling before camping by Lake Erie.
Learn More: