Defenders Day 2000 was held on April 29 at
the Historic Elk Landing site. It was a perfect day and there was a large
turnout.
The day's events started with VIP reception from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00
p.m. followed by a Commencement Program and Public Reception from 1:30
p.m. to 3:30 p.m.
The events of the day included the raising of the hand-sewn Elk Landing Flag, donated by Debbie & Gary Storke. The flag is shown in the upper left corner of this page. It shows the British Union Jack on the left and the American stars & stripes on the right. The two flags are separated by a curved blue line representing the Elk River which divides at the top where the Little and Big Elk Creeks come together to form the river. Elk Landing is represented by the lowermost star at the junction of the creeks. The animation to the left shows the flag being raised for the first time.
Other events included Colonial story telling, Fife and Drum presentations, a strolling violinist, a War of 1812 encampment, Heritage Troup Performances with the Royal Marines, tours of the grounds and buildings at Elk Landing and refreshments.
This date was chosen to coincide with a military engagement which occurred at Elk Landing during the War of 1812. On April 29, 1813, British Marines intent on torching Elkton advanced toward the town. A spirited defense from nearby Fort Defiance, along with Fort Hollingsworth at Elk Landing, discouraged their attack and they retreated to easier targets down the Chesapeake Bay. Elkton was thus spared from the burning which was the fate of other nearby towns.
Each year, the Saturday closest to April 29 will be celebrated as Defenders Day at Elk Landing. Please join us next year and share in the celebration of this historical event.
We have included a series of photos taken during the day for your pleasure. Select the link below and click through the show to enjoy some of the same scenes that those that attended enjoyed.
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