War of 1812 - Interview Series

by Judi McWilliams

Interview with Zackery Caron (Part One)

I wondered what the life of a “teenager” would have been like during the War of 1812? We have had many opportunities over the last few years to travel across Ontario to visit different Re-enactments of the War of 1812. It shed some light into many aspects of life during that period of time. Re-enactments and re-enactors play an important part in Canadian society. I have had the opportunity to talk with Mr. David Brunelle, Project Director of the Southern Georgian Bay War of 1812 Bicentennial Committee which helped me gain some understanding about being a re-enactor of the War of 1812. Even if you are not a history buff, re-enactments are exciting and entertaining! In previous articles, we have written about our nephew, Zackery Caron (who is now 16 years old). We have watched him on several occasions as he took part in re-enacting. As I was wondering about the life of a young “teenager” during the War, I thought it would be a great opportunity to go directly to the youth of today and ask some questions. Getting time to talk with my nephew is like pulling teeth. He has a full schedule, with high school, two part-time jobs (that consume most evenings and weekends), a co-op placement in the community, and “life” in general as a teen of today! I e-mailed him with my questions. His answers were short, but, without his input I would not be able to share these insights with you. Lucky for the internet! Fortunately for Zack, he has an amazing history teacher, Mr. Chris Robins, who is an avid re-enactor! We have written about Mr. Robins in the past which you can visit at West History. That being said, I asked Zack how he became interested in re-enacting? He said simply, his history teacher (Mr. Robins) asked if he wanted to join! Mr. Robins saw that our nephew was interested in history and realized the opportunity by asking him to take part. Being only 16 years old, it is hard to believe that Zack has been re-enacting for three full years and is about to embark on his fourth year! I asked Zack if it was difficult to get other students involved? He tells me, ”That depends really, if the student is already interested in history it’s not, although not really. If the student isn’t, then yes it is difficult”.
(To be continued)