J. L. BELL is a Massachusetts writer who specializes in (among other things) the start of the American Revolution in and around Boston. He is particularly interested in the experiences of children in 1765-75. He has published scholarly papers and popular articles for both children and adults. He was consultant for an episode of History Detectives, and contributed to a display at Minute Man National Historic Park.

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Friday, August 13, 2010

The Regulars Are Out on the Common This Weekend

This weekend brings the annual Revolutionary War British army encampment on Boston Common sponsored by the Freedom Trail Foundation. The foundation’s event page includes these highlights, among other moments:

Friday August 13
3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
British re-enactors soldiers set up camp

Saturday, August 14
9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Demonstrations throughout the day: mock tents, bed making, shoemaking, a medical tent, clothing and uniforms, court marshal, stocks, music, pottery,children’s activities

10:30 a.m. & 2:00 p.m.
Musket drills and black powder firing

12:00 Noon
Skirmish with Colonial Militia

6:00 p.m.
Military Parade to Faneuil Hall Marketplace

7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Dancing under the stars – Poor Richard’s Penny, early American musical ensemble plays while caller announces dance steps (public is invited to dance)

Sunday, August 15
9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Demonstrations throughout the day

12:00 Noon
Drill/Musket firing
The photograph above appeared at Universal Hub after the last encampment in 2008. It does a nice job of capturing the flavor of the day.

3 comments:

Pvt.Willy said...

Bloody Backs !

Jan said...

Mock tents?

RFuller said...

...but not...Lobsterbacks!

http://boston1775.blogspot.com/2007/11/british-soldiers-werent-called.html

We mention this a great deal in our interpretation at Minute Man NHP to show that our perception of 18th century history has changed because of pop culture of the intervening centuries. History, like nostalgia, ain't what it used to be.