With the bicentennial celebration of the War of 1812 under way, the Oakland Township Historical Society held an “A U.S. Marine, War of 1812” reenactment celebration last night at Cranberry Lake Farm, 384 W. Predmore Road, Oakland Township.

Before the program the O.T.H.S. enjoyed a delicious potluck. The tables were filled with delightful homemade meals, deserts, and a homemade “1812” apple pie made by special guest Joe Toth.

Toth, an 11 year Oakland Township resident, dressed as an 1812 marine brought along historical memorabilia which included: original uniforms, ammunition, guns, jackets, multiple hats, belts, wallets, backpacks, and boots. The audience listened intently as Toth described the daily life of an 1812 soldier,  pay rates, clothing worn and food and drink consumed to survive through their battles.

Photos brought from past appearances had the O.T.H.S. asking Toth questions about where he has reenacted before.

Toth has been preforming reenactments for 20 years. He enlightened the O.T.H.S. about his performances across Michigan, Indiana, and Ohio. Most interesting was his venture upon the Constitution which was made famous during the War of 1812 for the capture of numerous merchant ships and defeat of five British warships. The Constitution’s reenactment lasted over 4 hours when Toth joined the “battle” in 2000.

The Oakland Township Historical Society’s next event will be the “Paint Creek Cemetery Tour” on Saturday, Oct. 6 at 3:00 p.m. and will include a special presentation by Civil War speaker Jack Dempsey. The Historical Society is located at 384 West Predmore Road Oakland, Michigan. For more information please visit the O.T.H.S’s website or contact Colleen Barkham, Co-President at thsbarkham@hotmail.com  or Co-President Janine Saputo at jlsaputo@comcast.net.