On this Day in 1812 June 18, 2012 at 6:05 PM On June 1, 1812, US
President James Madison sent a message to the Congress
recounting American grievances against Great Britain, though not
specifically calling for a declaration of war. After Madison's
message, the House of Representatives deliberated for four days
behind closed doors before voting 79 to 49 (61 percent in favor)
the first declaration of war, and the Senate agreed by 19 to 13
(59 percent in favor). The conflict began formally on June 18,
1812, when Madison signed the measure into law. Old Fort Niagara
hosted a day of special programming to commemorate the
bicentennial of the declaration of the War of 1812 on over the
weekend. Programs included special tours, musket and artillery
firing programs and early-19th century games. The highlight of
the day’s activities will be a hot shot demonstration, flag-
raising of the replica 1812 garrison colors, and dedication of a
new exhibit panel about Fort Niagara's 1812 heroine, Betsy
Doyle. Doyle, a heroine of