The Natchez Trace Parkway Association, in partnership with the 7th U.S. Living History Association and the National Park Service, began a four-year living history program on the parkway to re-enact events associated with its role in the War of 1812. Captain John Gordon’s house and ferry site was the location of the Memorial Day 2012 event “Muster on the Natchez Trace 1812.” As in the spring of 1812, a muster was held of volunteer militia, when word arrived that a settler had been taken hostage. A debate ensued over whether the nation should go to war. Military recruiters enlisted volunteers, as fife and drum musicians created a patriotic mood. A period church service was held before the soldiers marched from their families to meet the enemy. A memorial was held for Captain Gordon. Members of his family were present. Captain Gordon was the Captian of the Company of Spies for Andrew Jackson. General Jackson sent Gordon as the sole spy into Spanish-held Pensacola. Based upon the intelligence that Captain Gordon provided, Jackson attacked Pensacola. Jackson noted that Captiain Gordon frequently moved to the front of action during battle. Gordon moved with his family from Nashville to the ferry site in 1812, as war was threatened.