• Image of swamp, bayou, and marsh

    Jean Lafitte

    National Historical Park and Preserve Louisiana

Beyond the Battlefield

The War of 1812's New Orleans campaign ended with the Battle of New Orleans at Chalmette Battlefield. But what happened before the battle? Where did the British land and where was their headquarters during the winter of 1814-1815? How did American Major General Andrew Jackson defend the city against the invaders?

Find out the answers when you explore "Beyond the Battlefield" with a self-guided tour that will take you to Jackson's New Orleans headquarters, to the fort that guarded Bayou St. John, and to the British invasion route. Watch this space for an online booklet suitable for printing and links to a mobile web tour and smartphone app---coming soon!

  • War of 1812 Bicentennial War of 1812 Bicentennial

    200 years ago, the United States declared war on Great Britain. Learn about "the second war of independence" and how the park will commemorate it. Read More

  • Explore the War Explore the War

    Discover the people, places, and issues of the War of 1812 at the official National Park Service bicentennial website. Read More

Did You Know?

A Water Moccasin swims through the bayou.

The cottonmouth or water moccasin can warn you of its dangerous bite in many ways. It releases a musky odor and opens its mouth wide to show you its white mouth and fangs. Show respect for snakes and all wildlife and always keep a safe distance away.