On April 13, a group of archaeology and art history students and beloved alum Mike K. toured a number of historical sites in Indiana's First City, Vincennes, with good friend of the department Ms. Alexandra Leich. After we watched an introductory video, an interpreter in period dress demonstrated the type of rifle used by George Rogers Clark and his men to capture Fort Sackville from the British in 1779.
We then visited the impressive George Rogers Clark Memorial, which was dedicated by President Roosevelt in 1936.
After a tour of Indiana's oldest church - the beautiful Old Cathedral - and its very interesting library and museum with Father Schipp, we visited the Old French House and Indian Museum. Built in 1809, the house is an excellent example of French Creole architecture. Historian Richard Day was our interpreter and we were really impressed by his knowledge of early Indiana history.
After a somewhat chilly picnic lunch featuring Alexandra's awesome brownies, we were given an excellent tour of Grouseland, the mansion owned by first governor of the Indiana Territory and 9th US President, William Henry Harrison.
We concluded our trip with a visit to historic buildings next to Grouseland, including a log cabin, a print shop, a building used by the Territorial Legislature, and the Jefferson Academy (precursor to the oldest university in Indiana, Vincennes University). A good time was had by all!
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