The Villa Louis presented the “War of 1812 in Wisconsin – the Battle of Prairie du Chien” the only War of 1812 battlefield within the present-day boundaries of Wisconsin.

British-led forces decended upon Prairie du Chien after word spread of a growing American presence there, and the establishment of Fort Shelby.

The battle lasted for two and a half days.

The Villa Louis historic site presented the battle twice, Saturday and Sunday, as part of a two day event on St. Feriole Island.

In the end…Outnumbered, the American forces surrendered as British forces began preparing “hot shot” to fire upon the fort.