The 1813 battle resulted in the highest number of American casualties of any single engagement during the War of 1812.
The phrase 'Remember the Raisin' became a rallying cry for American troops throughout the remainder of the war.
The battlefield was designated as a National Battlefield Park by Congress in 2009, making it one of the newest units in the NPS system.
The site includes remnants of the original French ribbon farm layout, which heavily influenced the tactical movements during the battle.
During the winter, the frozen river provided a unique mobility factor for both attacking forces and retreating soldiers.
The park's creation was the result of a decades-long effort by local Monroe citizens and historians to protect the land from commercial development.
River Raisin National Battlefield Park preserves the site of the bloodiest conflict of the War of 1812. The park commemorates the Battles of Frenchtown, fought in January 1813, where American forces suffered significant losses. It is one of the few sites in the U.S. National Park System that commemorates a defeat. The landscape includes preserved battlefield terrain, walking trails, and a Visitor Center featuring interpretive exhibits. It serves as a memorial to the American soldiers, Canadian militia, and Native American warriors who participated in the fighting. The park spans approximately 264 acres along the banks of the River Raisin. It features a diverse collection of artifacts recovered from the site and provides an overview of the regional geopolitical tensions of the early 19th century.
The elevated boardwalk overlooking the river provides the best vantage point of the battlefield landscape.
Walk the Heritage Trail to see the interpretive signs that explain the tactical movements of the battle.
Check the park's calendar for living history demonstrations or guided battlefield tours.
Bring binoculars for bird watching, as the riverfront area is a designated wildlife habitat.
Attempting to walk the entire perimeter without checking the weather, as the trails can become muddy after rain.
The Visitor Center is typically closed on federal holidays; grounds remain accessible throughout the year.
Maintain a respectful demeanor as the site is a cemetery and memorial; do not remove any historical artifacts found on the ground.
