Anyone up for a second round of fireworks? On September 10, 2013, fireworks would be an appropriate way to celebrate the bicentennial of America’s second independence from the British empire: the Battle of Lake Erie. A pivotal moment in the War of 1812, the Battle of Lake Erie saw one of the greatest heros of American military history make his mark on the history books when Oliver Hazard Perry famously and tenaciously fought back the British Navy on his crippled ship, the USS Lawrence. So brave and patriotic were Perry’s actions, that he (and the battle) became an icon of American freedom. Maker’s from Staffordshire, England to New York emblazoned their wares with scenes from the battle, and Perry’s famous battle flag “Don’t give up the ship!”
Today, items relating to Perry (including anything with his signature coiffure) and the war of 1812 command intense interest from collectors of Americana. Lasting for more than 32 months, the War of 1812 was America’s last tete a tete with Britain, and solidified our status as an independent and capable nation. Bicentennial celebrations of the war and it’s notable influence (including the Battle of Baltimore, which was the inspiration for “The Star Spangled Banner”) are occurring all around the country, with most of Ohio’s fanfare concentrating on Perry’s illustrious victory on the lake.
While opportunities to learn more about the war abound, a notable exhibit at the Rutherford Hayes Presidential Library will close on October 7. “The War of 1812 on the Ohio Frontier” includes hundreds of objects that help to illustrate Ohio’s importance to the war. Whether your pending travels take you near Fremont, or not, stop by to learn more about America’s second independence day.
This horn cup was in the home of an unsuspecting collector in St. Louis, Missouri, who had no idea of the significance of Ohio to the War of 1812. Presented to General Green Clay, a Kentucky militia General who successfully defended Fort Meigs from relentless and cunning British and Indian attacks, the cup sold at auction for $38,775.
This 19th Century portrait of famed Naval hero, Oliver Hazard Perry, was sent to Garth’s by a collector in Chicago who identified the sitter only as “a naval officer.” Recognizing the Commodore immediately, Garth’s specialists identified Perry and the painting brought $7,931.
Astute marketers in the 19th Century capitalized on Perry’s fame, including scenes from the Battle of Lake Erie and Perry’s profile on everything from porcelain to clocks. This example was made in Connecticut, just a few years after the war. It sold for $264 at auction.
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