The $100 million development of River Raisin National Battlefield Park reaches a significant milestone next week as the City of Monroe and the River Raisin National Battlefield Park Foundation announce the acquisition and planned demolition of 20 houses and development of more than 45 acres for the Heritage Corridor project.
The Plan involves building a re-creation of Old Frenchtown, a settlement that includes ribbon farms, orchards, vineyards and historically correct houses. When completed visitors can immerse themselves in the sights, sounds and activities of Frenchtown in the early 1800s. Also planned is an International Peace Gardens and chapel as an area of reflection and ceremony, a new and larger RRNBP Visitor and Education Center and a greenway which follows the historical path from the battlefield to the place of Americans last stand at Plum Creek in the War of 1812.
In 2017, the Park had nearly 240,000 visitors from 49 states and 24 nations. The economic impact to the region is estimated at $30 million a year. This regional project will have a national impact and is the cornerstone in building the RRNBP. There are only four National Battlefield Parks in the US. The RRNBP is dedicated to telling the story of the War of 1812, one of the nation’s most historically significant battle sites. It is the largest battle fought on Michigan soil and one of the bloodiest battles of the War of 1812.
View the Heritage Corridor East Master Plan
Announcment takes place at 10AM, on Monday, August 27, at 1403 East Elm Avenue - adjacent to the National Park visitor center.