Take a look back in time to the Great Lakes before the Revolutionary War! On October 18, 1764, at the beginning of the British’s fight against “Pontiac’s Rebellion” after the French and Indian War, Col. John Bradstreet took upwards of 60 bateaus and 9 canoes and landed near what is now Rocky River. Overnight a vicious storm with heavy winds and strong waves wiped out almost half the fleet. Part of the survivors were forced to walk back to Fort Erie short on food, exhausted, and freezing. When all was said and done, Col. Bradstreet’s campaign was not just unsuccessful, but disastrous. In the years since, remnants from Bradstreet’s disaster have appeared on and been discovered around Rocky River’s beaches. The findings continue to tell the story of this era of Great Lakes history—a story the National Museum of the Great Lakes is helping to share through artifacts recently donated to our collection including a swivel gun, cannon accessories, and more.

Exhibit admission is free for members and included with any museum admission purchase. The temporary exhibit will be open during regular museum hours—from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Monday thru Saturday and Sunday from noon – 5 p.m. Individuals can purchase same-day tickets at the door or online in advance here.