Battle of New Orleans

[Al Smitley]

It didn't dawn on me until I read the date on the newspaper this morning but this is the 200th anniversary of the Battle of New Orleans, whose date, throughout the early-mid 19th C was considered as important and venerated as July 4th.  Surely, Jackson's presidential campaign helped.  Most of you are probably familiar with "Hunters of Kentucky" (attached) which I think was printed in 1824, coinciding with Jackson's first run for the Presidency.

Here's another verse from a song sheet printed some time later as verses that follow refer to Jackson's fight against the United States Bank and the nullification issue.

"Zip Coon On The Go-Ahead Principle"

I spose you heard ob de battle New Orleans

I spose you heard ob de battle New Orleans

I spose you heard ob de battle New Orleans
Whar ole gineral Jackson gib de British beans;

Dare the Yankee boys do de job so slick

Dare the Yankee boys do de job so slick

Dare the Yankee boys do de job so slick
For dey cotch Pakenham, an row'd him up de creek.

 

[John Cohen]

I've been back home in NOLA for break.  It's been quite a fun time with all of the commemorative events!

[Al Smitley]

Odd, I think.  I haven't heard a word about any 200th anniversary events/celebrations.  Not even on CSPAN3, whose programming I check every weekend for such things.  There must be something going on, locally.  Care to tell us about some of it, John?

[John Cohen]

There's been a number of talks given by the New Orleans Historical Society, and there was a large festival and reenactment at the Chalmette Battlefield.