Saving Connecticut's Powder House

From the March 26th Christian Science Monitor "Betty Oderwald helps save a memory in stone of a 200-year-old forgotten U.S. War" by Cathryn J. Prince.

The Powder House in Fairfield, Connecticut is one of the state's few remaining structures from the War of 1812.  Ammunition was stored in it back then, but t had fallen into great disrepair until enter Betty Oderwald, president of the Connecticut Society of U.S. Daughters of 1812.  It has been her aim to increase local awareness.Along with her organization, the Fairfield DAR, Fairfield Public Works and $5,000 in town funds, a new roof, new door, stones aligned has come to pass.

It is believed to be the only structure in Connecticut built for the war still standing.  It was built in 1814.  Until then, the state wasn't too worried about British attack until Napoleon abdicated that year.  Now, the British could turn their full attention to the United States.

Remember, the British burned Washington, DC, and attacked Fort McHenry in 1814.  Even though it was never used, Oderwald is working to get it listed on the NRHP.

Connecticut so opposed the War of 1812, that Governor Roger Griswold prohibited the state militia (some 5,000 served) from leaving the state borders.

Oderwald is also working to compile a list of War of 1812 soldiers from the state's 169 towns and cities.

Saving Those Old Buildings.  --Brock-Perry