Members of the Samuel Lewis Chapter, USD 1812, the Jared Mansfield Chapter, DAR, and the Mansfield Blockhouse volunteers, friends and family, gathered at the blockhouse in South Park on Brinkerhoff Avenue on June 14 to celebrate Flag Day and the Smithsonian’s “Raise It Up” event, which celebrates the 200th anniversary of the “Star Spangled Banner.”
At 3:50 p.m., the 1812-era flag was raised on the tree flag pole recently installed by the Lexington Boy Scouts Troop 121 and their leader, Kevin Wappner. At 4 p.m., as part of the 200th anniversary, citizens throughout the United States were gathered to sing the “Star Spangled Banner.” Diane Kracker, 1812 and DAR member, led the group in singing. Keith Metcalf provided the musical accompaniment. Brian Dormaier and Sunda Peters, 1812, DAR and Blockhouse Volunteer Coordinator, manned the blockhouse afterward for tours. Those attending represented Mansfield, Lucas, Bellville, Ontario, Lexington and Shelby.
The Mansfield Blockhouse was built on the square in Mansfield in 1812 by militia from Knox and Coshocton counties for protection of settlers during the War of 1812. It also served as Richland County’s courthouse and jail from 1813 to 1816. It currently sits in its fifth location and has an interesting history. Tours are given by volunteers on Saturdays and Sundays from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. from Memorial Day to Labor Day. The public is encouraged to view the inside of the blockhouse and learn more about Richland County’s history.
