On Aug. 30, 1813, Red Stick Creek Indians attacked Fort Mims in Tensaw as the settlers returned for lunch. The Indians stormed through the open east gate to start the skirmish that lasted hours, a battle that saw around 500 people killed.

This year marks the 202nd anniversary of the Fort Mims massacre and special events are scheduled throughout the final weekend of August.

Activities will include a living history exhibit, displays and crafts from early 1800s life (including covered wagons, arrowheads, wool spinning, blacksmithing, quilting, period music, basketry, pottery, watercolors and skinning).

There will also be Creek Indian games and cultural presentations, as well as period weapons and clothing.

Artifacts from the state archives in Montgomery will also be on site, as will a hammered silver broach found in spring of 2014 by USA archaeology students that likely be a focal point of the exhibit.

“We are also going to have time to recognize descendants of those involved in the history of Fort Mims, including some of Samuel Mims’ descendants,” Claudia Campbell, president of the Fort Mims Restoration Association, said. “We also have plans to honor the family of Georgia Teel, who donated the land to us decades ago.”

There is no admission fee, but donations will be accepted.

Parking on site is limited and most will be reserved for buses and the disabled.

If you go

WHAT: Fort Mims 202nd Anniversary

WHEN: Aug. 29-30, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

WHERE: Fort Mims, Tensaw, Ala. (12 miles north of Stockton on

Highway 59, then 3 miles west on County Road 80.)

COST: Free, but donations accepted

FIND OUT MORE: Contact the Fort Mims Restoration Association at 251-533-9024