War of 1812 Celebrations Articles

War of 1812 Introduces John Terence, Chief Warrant Officer (Ret'd) MMM, CD Producer

2012-02-14T11:36:00.000-08:00

Photo by Gary McWilliams, Ontario Visited

"The Battle" at the Canadian International Military Tattoo & Festival
Interview with Mr. John Terence, Producer, Canadian International Military Tattoo & Festival

WAR OF 1812 & the Canadian International Military Tattoo & Festival PLANS

With the War of 1812 Bicentennial this year, many organizations are celebrating by including remembrance and activities planned as part of their festival/event. Many festivals/events seem to start next year’s planning the day after that event ends. Mr. Terence tells us he doesn’t work that way. In fact, 2013/14 plans are well under way and 2015 has been started also. Canadian International Military Tattoo & Festival has themes each year. A brief summary: 2012 – focus on events that occurred during the War of 1812. They will try to portray ideas around “why the American side choose to attack

Canada

”, the death and the legend of Major-General Sir Isaac Brock and Lieutenant Colonel John Macdonell. 2013 – Focus on the Battle of Stoney Creek, the Canadian International Military Tattoo & Festival will work in conjunction with the organizers of the Battle of Stoney Creek Reenactment. And 2014 – focus on significant events during that period of time of the War of 1812 and focus on “Pathways of Peace” also. I thought I would share with you some further details of the plans for the Canadian International Military Tattoo & Festival for the War of 1812 through 2012-2014?

“The Canadian International Military Tattoo, an inspiring 2-1/2 hour show of stirring music, dancing, pipes & drums and military displays, will feature a commemoration of the 200th Anniversary of the 1812-1814 War; the 150th Anniversary of The Royal Hamilton Light Infantry (WR); along with International Guest Performers. A Signature Event in the City of Hamilton.”

“Central Canada’s premier Military Tattoo featuring the pageantry of massed military bands, pipes and drums and special guest performers is very pleased to announce our 21^st Military show for 2012. On Saturday June 23 at 7:30 pm, and Sunday June 24 at 2:30 pm, we will be featuring a commemoration of the 200^th Anniversary of the start of the War of 1812-1814, and the 150^th Anniversary of the Royal Hamilton Light Infantry (WR). Invited performing groups include the following: Special Guests- Pioneers of Canterbury Marching Group (Christchurch New Zealand)…The Windsor Regiment Band (Windsor): The Royal Regiment of Canada Military Band (Toronto): The Royal Hamilton Light Infantry Military Band (Hamilton): The Military Band of the Ceremonial Guard (Ottawa): …The 48^th Highlanders Pipes and Drums (Toronto): The Lorne Scots Pipes and Drums (Brampton): The Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders Pipes and Drums (Hamilton): The Pipes and Drums of the Ceremonial Guard (Ottawa): The Dundas Pipes and Drums (Dundas):…The Tattoo Dancers: 13^th Regiment of Foot (Hamilton Re enactment Group): Winning Cadet Band in Ontario: 1812-1814 Re enactors (Hamilton): Danielle Bourre (Singer): The Fiddle Kid (Liam McGlashon)"

The Tattoo is a registered Not-for-Profit charitable organization and is a 2 ½ hour show with over 500 performers composed of military bands, pipes and drums, dancers, song, pageantry and special performing groups. Special emphasis is always given to our veterans from all theatres, and they are included in the show. There is no other show of this scale west of Halifax, and we provide the experience for the general public to connect the public to the military through music.

Next week I am excited to share with you my conversation with Mr. Terence about "Getting into the Act"!

(To Be Continued)

War of 1812 Introduces John Terence, Chief Warrant Officer (Ret'd) MMM, CD Producer

2012-02-07T11:21:00.000-08:00

Photo by Gary McWilliams, Ontario Visited
"Exhibitor" at the Canadian International Military Tattoo & Festival
Interview with Mr. John Terence, Producer, Canadian International Military Tattoo & Festival

This year the Canadian International Military Tattoo & Festival embarks on its’ 21^st Anniversary. The Producer of the show, John Terence, tells us in summary that … “In 1992 Canada was having its’ 125 Anniversary. The Region of Hamilton/Wentworth wanted to put together a celebration “show”. This effort was to be a “one time show”. However, when the “Region” became a “so called Mega City of Hamilton”, they decided to form a non profit organization and continue with the success of this “show”! At one point John was Chairman of this Show, but says to us that “being Chairman is not my bag, I much prefer being on the production side”! To tell you a little history about Mr. Terence, here is a bit of his biography … Chief Warrant Officer (Ret'd) John Terence, MMM, CD, Producer … “CWO Terence of has been actively and directly involved with the Tattoo since its inception in 1992. He was born in England and came to Canada with his parents in 1946. He began piping at the age of ten, and in 1958 joined the Pipes and Drums of The Argyll & Sutherland Highlanders of Canada. He was appointed its Pipe Major in 1973, a post he held until retirement from the Army Reserve in 2000. Under his leadership the band travelled extensively, including appearances at the Edinburgh Tattoo in 1974, 1986 and 2000, the Festival Interceltique de Lorient in Brittany, and France in 1995 and the last British Army Tattoo in Berlin, Germany in 1992. In 1999 Pipe Major Terence was appointed a Member of the Order of Military Merit in recognition of his distinguished service to the Canadian Forces and to his regiment and its Pipes and Drums. CWO Terence is married to Lynda (a Tattoo volunteer), and they have three daughters, Jeanne, Jackie and Julie, all of whom have served in the Argylls. Jackie is a drummer with the Argylls’ Pipes and Drums and Julie is a medical assistant in the Regular Force, currently serving with 1 Field Ambulance, CFB Edmonton.” As I spoke to John, he also mentioned his daughter as a combat medic in the Rank Force is in tour in

Afghanistan

for 8 months, “all outside the wire”. I asked John what that meant, he tells me that “that’s were all the actions is, they are in a constant state of combat readiness”. He told me about the other dangers other than the War itself, being the environment; Camel Spiders bodies are as large as dinner plates.” It amazes me how much dedication the entire Terence family has devoted to “

Canada

” and our society!

(To Be Continued)

War of 1812 "Controversial Topics"?

2012-01-31T08:41:00.000-08:00

Photo taken by Gary McWilliams/Ontario Visited
"A Blurred Vision"
Article written and submitted by Judi McWilliams
War of 1812 Celebrations Website

Through our War of 1812 Celebrations website, I have been reporting about the War of 1812 … writing articles, doing research, and posting article Blog’s with interesting interviews leaders/experts/historians/re-enactors. While visiting the internet and reading other articles posted, I have found that for each article that appears on the internet, there is quite often a subsequent article with a diametric “opinion” about the historical articles written, thus resulting in controversial topics. As you know, I reported in the past about this exact issue stating that the word “NOTION” suites this situation well. The definition of NOTION: “INSIGHT, COMPREHENSION, CONCEPT, ASSUMPTIONS, IMPRESSION, KNOWLEDGE, JUDGEMENT, OPINION, YOUR UNDERSTANDING.” There are articles and stories that are compelling, interesting, and controversial to some. As we continue to write about the War of 1812 and in particular the Bicentennial Celebrations, I am going to report on Expert's opinions/notions as to their thoughts about these “controversies”. I was concerned that we might “offend” some of our War of 1812 Celebrations website readers, but now I think that the conversation is worth the debate. My next writings will be about some of the Expert's opinions/notions as to their thoughts about these ongoing “Controversial issues” … “Are they even Controversial?!”… and … “Just who do you think/feel you are offending?!”

I will continue to research information on this topic,taking about the "controversy", including a story about John Norton. Is he a true "forgotten War of 1812 Hero" or "that he was somewhat divisive" and not to others.

(To Be Continued)

War of 1812 - "Big in Canada"?

2012-01-29T10:05:00.000-08:00

Photo taken by Gary McWilliams
Reenactment Wasaga Under Seige 2011
"Capturing History in Time" ...
War of 1812 Article submitted by Judi McWilliams
Ontario Visited/War of 1812 Celebrations

Part 3 ....

This is my final except is from an article posted in the SalemNews.com, submitted October 1, 2011 by David M. Shribman, a North Shore native and Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist, is executive editor of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. I still welcome people to submit to our War of 1812 Celebrations website their “NOTION”. Your Notion being: your “INSIGHT, COMPREHENSION, CONCEPT, ASSUMPTIONS, IMPRESSION, KNOWLEDGE, JUDGEMENT, OPINION, YOUR UNDERSTANDING”.

excerpt ... "Big In Canada" ... "The normal discourse in Canada is anti-American," he says. "It's a secular religion, and this is the only acceptable form of bigotry in Canada. So when we have a chance to get up on our high horse and be self-righteous and say we whipped the United States, we'll do so. It doesn't mean more than one Canadian in a hundred knows a thing about the war. They don't. Usually we have a moral superiority. This time we have 200-years'-old military superiority."

But few people on this side of the 49th parallel are likely to notice.

"Americans are not exactly fascinated with the War of 1812," says Richard J. Finch, director of the Fort Meigs State Memorial in Perrysburg, Ohio, the largest reconstructed War of 1812 site in the country. "It's sandwiched between the American Revolution and the Civil War, so it tends to get neglected." The only people in the United States unabashedly excited about this event are Navy officials, who are planning events in New Orleans, New York, Norfolk, Va., Baltimore, Boston, Chicago — and Toronto.

The war ended in a draw, but the contest to conduct the most comprehensive commemoration isn't even close. The Canadians have appropriated millions, the Americans hardly anything. At this rate, the Canadians will appropriate the war entirely, at least for the next several years. Which brings us to a lesson for our time: Even forgotten wars can be lost 200 years later.”

David M. Shribman, a North Shore native and Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist, is executive editor of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.”

War of 1812 "Big in Canada?"

2012-01-24T04:18:00.000-08:00

Photo taken by Gary McWilliams
Reenactment Wasaga Under Seige 2011
War of 1812 Article submitted by Judi McWilliams
Ontario Visited/War of 1812 Celebrations

Part 2:

As the War of 1812 Bicentennial year has started, I am continuing to share some of the “stories” and bring some “important issues” for you to consider. The following except is from an article posted in the SalemNews.com, submitted October 1, 2011 by David M. Shribman, a North Shore native and Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist, is executive editor of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.

“David Shribman: War of 1812: Still big in Canada, not so much here”

"Along with the Korean War, the War of 1812, which most Americans remember dimly as being about impressment on the high seas and freedom of movement on the Great Lakes, is often called the Forgotten War.

It is sad that Americans are so forgetful, for this conflict, which lasted roughly two and a half years, gave the United States its national anthem and its national identity, cemented in large measure the nation's cultural and geographical boundaries, ushered in 200 years of peace with Britain and Canada, made the White House white and provided us with durable heroes such as Andrew Jackson, William Henry Harrison, Zachary Taylor, Oliver Hazard Perry and Tecumseh.

It ended in virtual stalemate — no side lost substantial territory except, of course, the Indians — and was a decidedly mixed experience for Americans, whose generals were execrable, whose militia didn't fight well and whose twin theories of warfare (that the French Canadians would rush to the U.S. side and that Canada would collapse into American arms) were ludicrous.

"The acquisition of Canada this year, as far as the neighborhood of Quebec, will be a mere matter of marching," wrote Thomas Jefferson, then out of office, "and will give us experience for the attack of Halifax the next and the final expulsion of England from the American continent." Maybe Jefferson wasn't a genius after all.

At the same time, however, the American Navy excelled, forcing the British to lose whole squadrons, which had rarely happened before. American naval prowess on the Great Lakes is still the stuff of legend, as is the old warship, the USS Constitution, known then and now as Old Ironsides.

But from the viewpoint of Canada, whose War of 1812 heroes are Isaac Brock and Laura Secord, the conflict is a different matter altogether, remembered for its glorious victories over American invaders.

"Thus the war that was supposed to attach the British North American colonies to the United States accomplished exactly the opposite," the late Canadian historian Pierre Berton wrote in his two-volume history of the conflict. "It ensured that Canada would never become a part of the Union to the south. Because of it, an alternative form of democracy grew out of the British colonial oligarchy in the northern half of the continent."

(To Be Continued)

War of 1812 "Big in Canada?" ...

2012-01-17T03:52:00.000-08:00

Photo taken by Gary McWilliams

Reenactment 2011 Wasaga Under Seige

War of 1812 article submitted by

Judi McWilliams

Ontario Visited/War of 1812 Bicentennial

As the War of 1812 Bicentennial year has started, I wanted to share some of the “stories” and bring some “important issues” for you to consider. The following except is from an article posted in the SalemNews.com, submitted October 1, 2011 by David M. Shribman, a North Shore native and Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist, is executive editor of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.

“David Shribman: War of 1812: Still big in Canada, not so much here”

“FORT ERIE, Ontario — The deficit remains a threat to the United States, economic crises persist in Europe, two wars rage halfway around the world, and the Republicans are beginning to focus on their nomination fight. So you have ample reason not to feel guilty about not having focused on this urgent question that the United States, Canada and Great Britain face next year: What is the best way to commemorate the 200th anniversary of the War of 1812?

This may not be the best time to plan a war commemorative. The U.S. is marking the 150th anniversary of the Civil War, which will consume five years and already has attracted considerable attention. Seven years ago the attempt to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the French and Indian War was a dud. There's not a huge appetite for yet another set of commemorative books, historical novels, re-enactments and school dioramas.

But this landmark will not go away, and embedded in this anniversary are several sticky questions, such as: How does Canada celebrate its victories over American invaders without alienating its biggest trading partner? How does the U.S. approach a war in which its principal adversary, Great Britain, is now one of its closest friends? And do the British pause to mark this event at all, given that for them it was but a brief, minor sideshow in the far more important Napoleonic Wars?”

(To Be Continued)

The Importance of Living History

2012-01-10T13:58:00.000-08:00

Judi McWilliams
Behind the Lens
Ontario Visited
War of 1812 Celebrations

I will continue this Blog while on my quest to understand why History, the War of 1812 and “living history” is so important. Over the course of last year I asked several leaders, experts, re-enactors why they felt “living history” was important. Some of the responses have enlightened me and may be interesting to you also. The following are partial excerpts from Blog interviews posted in the past on our War of 1812 Celebrations website.

Zackery Caron, High School Student, Cobourg …“When I am reenacting, I don’t really try to be “in character”, it just kind of happens. When you dress up and stand and walk as a unit, it just kind of happens! I did notice the crowds at the beach reenactment; (I and another who were injured) were encouraged to interact with the crowd.” Zack is an indication of the interaction of today’s “youth” which help keep these important roles of “living history” alive and well in our communities!

Laurie Siblock, Assistant Manager/Special Event & Community Liaison Lang Pioneer Village Museum … “Living history helps preserve both tangible and intangible heritage for future generations”…“part of understanding history is to help us not repeat the mistakes of the past. It helps us gain appreciation for what we have today”… “It is important to get into the mindset and understand the personalities of the people before us”. “Our ancestors paved the way for us; the richness in the past can inform you and help you understand the present”.

These few excerpts from my interviews over the past year have helped create an awareness how important “living history” is. Through our War of 1812 Celebrations Website we will continue to promote, educate, and inform our website visitors about the War of 1812 and its’ impact on our society today. We will be increasing our ongoing pursuit to enhance the knowledge of this important part of Canadian History. Our plan is reach as many War of 1812 enthusiasts and would-be enthusiasts, new “Canadians”, and particularly the youth in Ontario. Hope to see you “in-the-fields” during 2012.

The Importance of Living History

2012-01-03T13:53:00.000-08:00

Judi McWilliams

Behind the Lens

Ontario Visited

War of 1812 Celebrations

During 2012, our War of 1812 Celebrations Website will be focusing on the promotion of the War of 1812; the War of 1812 Bicentennial Celebrations, its participants, its history and the people who organize and manage War of 1812 Bicentennial events. We will also focus on showcasing and promoting War of 1812 re-enactments and activities during the Bicentennial and beyond.

I have been on a quest to understand why History, the War of 1812 and “living history” is so important. Over the course of last year I asked several leaders, experts, re-enactors why they felt “living history” was important. Some of the responses have enlightened me and may be interesting to you also. The following are partial excerpts from Blog interviews posted in the past on our War of 1812 Celebrations website.

Mr. Chris Robins, High School History teacher - Cobourg … “I can see the students enjoy the history, that sometimes, until you get involved with re-enacting, you underestimate just how important history is. What I am very excited about is understanding why the men/women of the War of 1812 period of time fought the way they did.”

Anne Brooks, Current former Marketing and Communications Coordinator at Fanshawe Pioneer Village, London …“I think it is important for people to learn about their history. The war of 1812 was a very large part of Canadian history and I really feel like people do not know a great deal about what happened. It is important to celebrate the heroic actions of the soldiers who lived and died in the War of 1812. You can’t move on to the future until you learn from the past.”

Ms. Sandra Shaul, City of Toronto, Museum Administrator, Special Projects, Bicentennial War of 1812 Museums - Heritage Services for the City of Toronto Cultural Services – Toronto …“the demographics of the Toronto area and region are not rural and have a very distinct audience from other areas”. “The region is composed of about 2.6 million people, 50% born outside Canada, thus creating a vast diversity of multi-cultural and diverse ethnic backgrounds; “if you understand the context of the War of 1812, you will see how it has led to who we are today”.

(To Be Continued)

War of 1812 Parks Canada 200 Years of Peace

2011-12-27T10:51:00.000-08:00

Carol Law
Festival Nomad Correspondent

Scouts Canada Participats at Niagara-on-the Lake
featuring Article Submitted by Carol Law
Part 4 ...

We will conclued this series with Festival Nomad Correspondent, Carol Law’s article about her adventures during this past summers experience with Scouts Canada.

Mindful that there have been troubling times in peace time as well, a moment of silence was observed this year to remember the events of 9/11 ten years ago. I was there for the 1812 camp the weekend following 9/11. We didn't know if the Americans would come. Then we didn't know if they would be able to get through the border - with so many youth? With imitation muskets and cannons? A cheer went up in the field when we heard they were trying to come. Three "hassahs" (British military cheer) went up in the field when we heard they were coming.

We later learned that the leaders explained the bus loads (over 600 Scouts from the US came through) to the boarder guards. The boarder guards checked the Scouts through a special line so they could make the camp in time on a weekend where it was taking up to 36 hours to get through.

On the last day of camp, teen years ago, it was the British side's turn to lead into the Fort for the closing. Imagine a column of almost 2000 people marching across the field, four abreast; the line stretches for over a kilometer. Spontaneously, without discussion, or planned decision, the British troops silently stopped at the Fort gate and formed an honour guard for the American Scouts allowing them to enter the Fort first. 2000 youth were silent for over 20 minutes; this was not asked of them, they recognized the significance of the gesture and gave it out of respect. The closing remarks were very moving that morning. It made you think about what was important. And that, while we teach our youth about what happened 200 years ago, it is what we do with that knowledge today that makes it all worth while.

This is why the War of 1812 is significant; because we can celebrate peace, and work together for the important things.

That is why Scouts Canada chooses to celebrate 200 years of peace. Next year, in mid-September, the 29th Fort George Scout campaign will once again descend on Niagara on the Lake. It is anticipated that over 4000 Scouting members will be there to re-enact the war of 1812 and celebrate peace between our nations once again.

War of 1812 Parks Canada 200 Years of Peace

2011-12-20T05:21:00.000-08:00

Carol Law
Festival Nomad Correspondent

Scouts Canada Participats at Niagara-on-the-Lake
featuring Article Submitted by Carol Law
Part 3 ...

We will continue with Festival Nomad Correspondent, Carol Law’s article about her adventures during this past summers experience with Scouts Canada.

The mechanisms for the muskets are made and sold by the Bayview Hills Scouts from Newmarket who is more than happy to supply both sides of the event, British and American alike. Bayview Hill Scouts have been participating in the Fort George campaign for all of its 28 years. They represent the 49th “o’foot” Regiment, Company 1. A full replica (5 1/2 ‘ x 6’) of the regimental flag leads each parade as the Regiment moves from place to place. Needless to say, capturing the “colours” of this Regiment is quite a coup.

Camped out at Butler's Barracks, the Scouts spend a weekend re-enacting the lifestyle, tasks, and battles typical of the War of 1812. They attend lifestyle presentations on barracks life, parade drill, and officer life, have a tour of Fort George, participate in an hour long parade through the Town of Niagara on the Lake where they have a 21st century hour to visit the shops, spend their “pay” (tickets) at the Fudge Parade (in camp candy shop), take local tours, and of course, participate in two sessions of battle including the appropriate drill, commands, formations strategies. Judges determine who “won” each part of the battle. They also decide if a volley of musket or cannon fire hit its mark. If it does the youth have to lie on the ground for one minute and then they reform their regiment and join in again.

This year Parks Canada presented a plaque to recognize over 100 years of service by Scouts Canada during the many wars and conflicts that Canada has assisted in. The plaque dedicates the site as an "Important Historical Site" and Scouts Canada as an "Important Historical Service". It is significant, and speaks to the amazing program that Scouts Canada provides, that Parks Canada allows this large event to camp out on National Historic ground.
(To Be Continued)

War of 1812 Parks Canada 200 Years of Peace

2011-12-13T06:00:00.000-08:00

Carol Law
Festival Nomad Correspondent

Scouts Canada Participats at Niagara-on-the-Lake
featuring Article Submitted by Carol Law
Part 2 ...
This week we will continue with Festival Nomad Correspondent, Carol Law’s article about her adventures during this past summers experience with Scouts Canada.
Scouts Canada is celebrating 200 years of Peace! The War of 1812 at Fort George, Niagara on the Lake was re-enacted by over 2300 Scouts from Canada and the United States. The Scouts recreate the battles, wearing full period style uniforms, accouterments, brandishing muskets that fire caps (for a satisfying "bang"), and hauling cannons that the boys and their leaders have made.

To Carol’s credits, she has been Awarded the Silver Medal of Merit from the Camp Anderson, Fort George 1812 Campaign for contribution to uniforms and the flag. Her participation also includes being in reenactments. Recently at a Lady with a parasol where her main rule of etiquette was to only not at passing Gentlemen who acknowledge you first. She really stays true to wearing a Spencer Dress and Apron; she was required as “the local woman” to assist with camp life. In the “Off Season” Carol can be found speaking to Scout groups about family 1812 history. She will spend time doing research and make new uniforms and equipment. She still will participate during the off season in parades reenacting as “wooden toy soldiers”. And of course, Drill Practice. Carol is an amazing person who can say one of her accomplishments was developing a new Scout specialty badge for 1812 participation. She has been required to qualify in participating also by making own equipment, participating in 3 events, 2 camp events, write an article and speak to a troop about the experience. Now that you know a little about Carol, she will share with us her story while participating in this years Scout Canada experience at Niagara-on-the-Lake.
(To Be Continued)

War of 1812 Parks Canada 200 Years of Peace

2011-12-06T06:33:00.000-08:00

Carol Law
Festival Nomad Correspondent

Scouts Canada Participates at Niagara-on-the-Lake
featuring Article Submitted by Carol Law
Part 1 ...
This past summer our Festival Nomad Correspondent, Carol Law, attended the War of 1812 Parks Canada 200 Years of Peace Celebrations with Scouts Canada at Niagara-on-the-Lake. A brief note about Scouts Canada ... “Scouts Canada is the country's leading youth organization. For more than 100 years, we have brought a world of adventure, outdoor experience and friendship to 17 million Canadian youth. Scouts have a lot of fun discovering new things and experiences they wouldn't have elsewhere. Along the way they develop into capable, confident and well-rounded individuals, better prepared for success in the world. Scouting offers a world where you can discover the best in yourself and the best in others. Dollar for dollar, our programs provide significant value. They run all year round and offer adventures that youth will remember for a lifetime!”

Carol Law’s involvement with Scouts Canada has accumulated to a large successful portfolio of activities and accomplishments. As Carol is our Festival Nomad Correspondent's who will be submitting the article, I thought you might like to know a little her experiences . Ms. Law has participated in 19 Scout Canada Campaigns. Her journey started when you young son was involved with Scouts in Bayview Hills, Newmarket. She has been part of the 49th o’ foot Regiment, 1st Comany – both Infantry & Artillery (cannon). Carol is a talented sewer, so, it is no surprise she was involved with the Sewing of the 49th flag. She has designed and made original patterns for historically detailed uniforms, accotrements such as canteens, cartouches, sheikos = hats, sashes, insignia, haversacks. Ms. Law has assisted in the development and making of the first mechanisms and muskets – mechanisms fire caps. Recently during a visit to Carol’s home, I noticed two light blue canteen period containers, clearly hade with Carol’s talents. Carol has played the Role of the Quartermaster…That being the person responsible for the “quarters”. At camp she had led the troops in camp set up, ordering and coordination the food rations, maintaining order and structure in the kitchen, providing uniforms and accoutrements for the Scouts and participants including all ordering supplies. She will oversee challenges and “fix” any with her amazing initiative, creativity and wealth of knowledge and experience!
(To Be Continued)

What's In A Name ? ...

2011-11-29T13:44:00.000-08:00

By Adrienne Horne, M.A.
Regional Project Manager
Western Corridor 1812 Bicentennial Alliance

What's In A Name? ... Part 4 ...

Continuing from last week ... Naturally then, the Talbot Line outlines Colonel Thomas Talbot’s land grant that he received from the British government for his service in the army in 1803. The Colonel actually built the road himself during the time of the war so that it was completed in 1820 and was considered one of the best roads in Upper Canada at the time.

Driving into Amherstburg is like a history lesson, travelling along Simcoe St, you first come across Victoria St, then Brock St, George St and of course then King St. As Simcoe was into politics you will then find Seymour St., named after Benjamin Seymour, a politician born in Upper Canada in 1806.

If you know your history then you will be able to see these names in a different light. They are no longer just a meaningless name. So next time you venture out, look at the names of streets and business and see if you can recognize any from the War of 1812.

You now know that Allan MacNab was the “Boy Hero of the War of 1812”and went onto a successful political career, and that is why he is celebrated in Hamilton. Understanding that Simcoe granted land to all these people who then went out and settled towns that they then name after themselves puts these communities within a larger context. Ingersoll is not just a name taken from Scotland, it was a man who came to Upper Canada to make a better life for his family and neighbours. It makes sense now that the York Road in Hamilton is the road that leads to York (now Toronto and the road is now the QEW).

You don’t need GPS; you just need to know your history!

What's In A Name? ...

2011-11-22T04:36:00.001-08:00

By Adrienne Horne, M.A.
Regional Project Manager
Western Corridor 1812 Bicentennial Alliance

What's In A Name? ... Part 3 ...

The name Brock can be found everywhere in Ontario and beyond, as street names, towns, municipalities, even an island in the Arctic is named after Brock. Beyond Brock University, there are department stores, restaurants, garages, construction companies and even a Pokémon is named Brock; who has rock-hard willpower! One can now be said “to Brock”; a slang term named after the WWE wrestler, Brock Lesnar!

200 years ago Brock forged a mutual alliance with the First Nations political leader, Tecumseh. Tecumseh was able to form a confederacy of nations who worked together to hold back American advancement into their territories. If he had lived, the landscape of First Nation lands would be very different. As it is now, there is a municipality, a town, an academy, a mall, even a corn fest all named after Tecumseh. Of course there is also the monument for him along the Thames River where he died on October 5, 1813 at the Battle of Moraviantown.

The War of 1812 turned ancient First Nation trails into roads and supply lines. This is why as you travel from Ancaster to Dundas you are on the Old Dundas Rd, leading into Dundas and when in Dundas, it becomes the Old Ancaster Road, because taking that road out of town will lead back to Ancaster. The Oakland Road, takes you to Oakland! At first I was frustrated with the streets just suddenly changing their name, but now I understand. It was a form of providing direction for travellers. One can start to see how street names came to be. The Brantford road leads from Delhi up to Brantford.
(To Be Continued)

What's In A Name? ...

2011-11-15T06:11:00.000-08:00

By Adrienne Horne,M.A.
Regional Project Manager
Western Corridor 1812 Bicentennial Alliance

What's In A Name? ... Part 2 ...

We all know who Laura Secord was, and love the chocolate! But are you aware that Laura was the daughter of United Empire Loyalist, Thomas Ingersoll and married fellow Loyalist, James Secord at her father’s home, in what would become Ingersoll; the town south of Woodstock, settled by Tom Ingersoll. Governor Simcoe had awarded Ingersoll a land grant for his loyal service during the American Revolution.

Then there is Brant; two of them actually, Joseph and his son John. Joseph Brant was a Mohawk military and political leader during the American Revolution. He met with both George Washington and King George III. As a defender of British interests he moved to Upper Canada after the Revolution and became a prominent leader of the Six Nations. In 1783, he worked with Governor Haldimand and created a land grant for the Six Nations along the Grand River. The Haldimand Tract included six miles on either side of the river from its start near Georgian Bay to the mouth of the river as it opens out to Lake Erie. Joseph then built his home in Brant’s Town at the place where he would cross the Grand River, thus referred to as Brant’s Fording Place. In 1801, through Governor Simcoe, Brant acquired the land at the Head of the Lake at Burlington Bay from the Mississauga’s. He built a mansion there, now the Joseph Brant Museum. Raised in this home, John Brant went on to stop the American attack at the Battle of Queenston Heights with his cousin, John Norton. This was the battle that saw the death of Canada’s hero, Sir Isaac Brock.
(To Be Continued)

What's In A Name? ...

2011-11-08T07:31:00.000-08:00

By Adrienne Horne, M.A.
Regional Project Manager
Western Corridor War of 1812 Bicentennial Alliance

For the next few weeks we will be featuring a brilliant article written by Adrienne Horne, M.A., Regional Project Manager for the Western Corridor War of 1812 Bicentennial Alliance. I was fortunate to meet Adrienne and spend some time with her this past summer in Penetanguishene. We had the privilege of touring some wonderful historic sites in the area during the War of 1812 Bicentennial Regional Directors meeting. Adrienne was particularly fun as she shared some of her own childhood experiences, knowledge gained over the years and reflection of her own children’s points of view; all relating to the War of 1812 and “Living History”. This article was generously submitted to our War of 1812 Bicentennial Celebrations website by Adrienne Horne for all to enjoy!

Part 1 …

"I have been working on this wonderful project to commemorate the War of 1812 for over a year now. It has taken me nearly 10,000 km across Southern Ontario; and as I drive I see all the names I am now reading and hearing about from 200 years ago.

It is amazing how many of the names for places in our communities come from the War of 1812; and does anyone notice or know the significance these people had on who we are as a nation and even what nation we live in for that matter?

Most historians will tell you that the War of 1812 forged this nation as the people came together as Canadians for the first time to defend their land and homes from an invading force. Most people are familiar with Brock, Simcoe, Tecumseh, and York, as these were the major people and places of significance for the war; but what about MacNab, Ingersoll, and Brant? These are also important people from that time and had influenced the outcome of the war in their own way.

Hamiltonians see the name MacNab on all sorts of things in their city, not to mention that his stately home, Dundurn Castle, was built upon a key site for the war, Burlington Heights. The heights have been an important location for people to meet rest and get supplies for centuries. The British army also used the Heights, as they built a fort and mounds to stop the enemy from advancing to York. Do you know that at the age of 14, Sir Allan Napier MacNab, before his successful law and political career in Hamilton, fought at York and was part of the attack on Fort Niagara? Born in Niagara, his father was a Lieutenant under Lt. Col John Graves Simcoe (later becoming Lieutenant Governor for Upper Canada)".(To Be Continued)

Interview with the Honourable Michael Chan

2011-11-01T04:47:00.000-07:00

The Honourable Michael Chan
Minister of Tourism and Culture
Province of Ontario with Judi & Gary McWilliams,
Ontario Visited/War of 1812 Bicentennial Celebrations

The Honourable Minister Chan, Minister of Tourism and Culture seems very excited about the upcoming War of 1812 Bicentennial Celebrations. As you may know, Ontario Visited has a dedicated website for these celebrations and to the future beyond. (link to War of 1812 Celebrations http://war1812celebrations.ontariofestivalsvisited.ca). What the Scoop here is, that Michael Chan is a first generation immigrant himself. He feels the War of 1812 gave Canada an identity and that it is important to remember the War and the heroes of that time! Minister Chan was emphatic again as he stressed the importance of engaging New Canadians, as it will enhance the integration of these people into Canadian life and society. He said he would like these celebrations to be highly promoted to help “pull the new immigrants from their own box into Ontario”. "It will be an opportunity to enhance integration", Mr. Chan states. He considers himself a “pioneer voyager”. He reminds us that these New Canadians in 25 years from now, these will not be new. They will be integrated and form our Canadian communities. These folks will continue to immigrate and become the supply of the new people. Michael Chan said "he appreciated the effort and direction that our Prime Minister". Apparently Prime Minister Harper is a War of 1812 fan.

The Moment!

2011-10-25T13:50:00.000-07:00

by Kathy Fisher, Festival Nomad Correspondent

The weekend brought extreme temperatures, and for those of us in cotton dresses and petticoats, it wasn’t as hot as I am sure the regimental men in the red woolen tunics were feeling. We were all expected to “act” the part during the weekend especially during the open hours of Nancy Island to the public. This is one aspect I was not familiar with for at the Ermatinger Clergue National Historic Site that I work at, we are more third person historical interpretation, versus this form of first person reenactment.
During the whole weekend, we witnessed the naval battles on the Notawassaga River, Wasaga Under Seige as the British and American reenactors held battle on the sandy dunes of Wasaga Beach, and regularly scheduled activities, of cannon demonstrations, musket drills, duels, and follower activities of candle making, and aboriginal drumming. With the extreme temperatures, the musket firing, the sights the sounds, we felt we had totally stepped back in time. The most memorable event – the “Seige” was the part of the weekend that brought the most interest and really made me and my “troop” from the north, really understand what it was like during the War. I think the combination of the smells and the haze of the smoke of the musket and cannon firing / black powder shooting, that also provided that “eerie” look and feel of the “moment”, so that I can truly say to others…..”come relive the moment!”
We left on Monday and headed back to Sault Ste. Marie feeling we had truly experienced, lived, and learned the War of 1812. We also knew the extent of what visitors touring the province in the next 3 years will experience. Now we just need to re-create that total experience so that we can provide to our visitors…..”the moment!”
I can’t wait……

Along for the Ride ...

2011-10-18T08:06:00.000-07:00

by Kathy Fisher - Festival Nomad Correspondent

Kathy Fisher, Curator, Ermatinger Clergue National Historic Site, reporting to you on my recent visit to Wasaga Under Siege, this July 2011, story continued ...

My son (Benn-age 12) was very excited and was seriously hoping that he would be able to part of the Royal Newfoundland Regiment with Dave Brunelle and his friends, to re-enact the War of 1812 and experience fully the sights, sounds, and adrenalin of being a British soldier in a battle.
Sarah (my daughter – age 10), I believe was more so along for the ride, and probably thinking what else can my mother drag me to, and isn’t this War over yet…..!

It was just Thursday night and we were just arriving and unloading, when we realized the extent of a full historical encampment. There were wedge tents everywhere along the perimeter of Nancy Island, and many other more full size reenactment tents that were for supplies, officers, families and followers, merchants and musician’s, and aboriginal encampments as well. Our eyes were wide and our excitement rose. This was it! Everywhere you looked there was rows of wedge tents, officers tents, and large gathering event tents. The site was set up for American reenactors and their followers at one end of the island, the Glengarry’s and the Royal Newfoundland and IMUC in the middle spreading to the other end of the island with the encampment for the Aboriginal involvement with their wigwams and tents.

Now unlike many attending as reenactors at this event, we were not camping on site in the wedge tents, but had made arrangements to rent a fully equipped cottage with all amenities (just down the road). However, upon seeing the encampment schedule of events, my son began his plea to at least camp one night in order to “experience” the full event. My typical mother’s response….”we will see”.

RECRUITING ...

2011-10-13T10:49:00.001-07:00

by Kathy Fisher - Festival Nomad Correspondent

Kathy Fisher Curator, Ermatinger Clergue National Historic Site, reporting to you on my recent visit to Wasaga Under Siege, this July 2011.
As curator at a site with a connection to the War of 1812, I have been caught up in the Bicentennial Wave of planning for the commemoration of the War for 2012 – 2014. So as a representative from the most northern Ontario region out of the 7 regions planning, I felt the need to visit Wasaga Under Siege this year in order to recruit, promote, and see first-hand an event that will be similar to our celebrations.
Since I work at a historical site, and re-enactment is part of my daily life at work, my children have also become accustomed to wearing the historical clothing and acting the part. So, of course I dragged them along with me, and two other co-workers, also part of our Algoma 1812 group. The purpose: promote, photograph, take notes, promote, copy, take notes, and “experience” the event…..you get the picture.
The trip was a beautiful drive in Algoma Country leaving Sault Ste. Marie at approximately 10:00 am. With GPS in tow, we set off for a rather experiential weekend. Did I mention, never follow a GPS when you gut is saying, I don’t think this is the way! A few dirt roads and back tracking, we finally made it to Nancy Island, Wasaga Beach at 6:30 pm.
All the way there, we talked about what was expected from us upon arrival. We would have to check in and register, receive our information package, and unpack our promotional equipment (which for reenactments – this means unloading wooden voyageur trunks, trade blankets, costumes, brochures, pamphlets, banners, and other items of interest). We needed to get to Nancy Island and do all of this between 6 & 9 pm, as the event would be starting and open to the public the next morning.
(To Be Continued)

The Best Hobby in the World

2011-10-04T14:37:00.000-07:00

by Benjamin Fisher - Festival Nomad Correspondent

Day 2 continued ...Day 2 was almost all the same things, cannon and musket demonstrations, boiling hot sun under 2 layers of wool and an amazingly fun day. But I was told that I was to be a designated "dead guy" in the battle today. Colin, Andrew, Andrew #2, Rooster , George and Kevin were all doing either a dueling, musket or cannon demonstrations. Mid-day all the other guys were teaching me how to “die”! “heart wrenching screams!” “make it epic!” were things they taught me . Marching into battle I was hoping I would remember all the "dead person" instructions. Waiting for the battle to start was the hardest part! BANG we shoot to start the first volley. BOOM the Americans shoot, and down I go. Before I hit the ground I heard Colin say “well that definitely didn’t take long”. There I was "dead". A foot away from poison ivy. While I was waiting on the ground “dead”, the American troops marched over and stopped right beside my "dead body". The American Sergeant leant over and said “don’t move!”
Also before the battle Rooster, told me to not get his musket in the dirt. So of course I held it tight and made sure I did not get one grain of sand in or on that musket! When the battle ended another re-enactor came and told me it was finished and that I could get up now. So doesn’t he just accidentally put the barrel of the gun in the sand! Luckily Rooster didn’t mind because he witnessed the whole thing!

Day:3
The third and final day had all the normal things: cannon, musket, dueling and surgeon demonstrations took place at Wasaga Under Siege. The final battle just allowed me to conclude the awesome event. After the battle I said good bye to all the re-enactors with gratitude, for their gift to me was allowing me to “re-live” the moment, and truly know what it is like to reenact the War of 1812.
Sad to leave, the next morning we headed back to the small historic town of Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario.
The End
P.S.: please do not attempt to "die" like soldier in 1812 unless you have professional teaching from re-enactors at Wasaga Under Siege!
Benn Fisher

The Best Hobby in the World

2011-09-27T06:49:00.000-07:00

by Benjamin Fisher - Festival Nomad Correspondent

Day 1 Continued ...
Dear readers I am Benjamin Fisher. I am 12 years old and I am a War of 1812 British re-enactor from Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, Canada. Re – enacting is probably the best hobby in the world. Dave Cobbern, more commonly known as “rooster”, let me use his musket during the battle. I can’t believe they trusted me to carry a gun. I felt truly honoured, and new that I had to be serious, and respect what these men were allowing me to do. I listened and followed their orders specifically. Colin watched over me during the battle to make sure I knew all the drills and movements. But after the first musket volley I felt like I was actually in the war. There was so much smoke in my nose and fogging the air around me and even though I was not allowed to shoot because I was under age – I was there and “immersed in the experience”. When the battle was over, the day was pretty much over too. However, I had one more experience to the weekend left that day….sleeping in the historical re-enactors wedge tents. My mother agreed to stay with me overnight. It was amazing to see, hear, and live life of 1812.

"12 Year Old Soldier Benn"

(To Be Continued)

The Best Hobby in the World

2011-09-20T11:41:00.000-07:00

by Benjamin Fisher - Festival Nomad Correspondent

Introduction...
Dear readers ... I am Benjamin Fisher. I am 12 years old and I am a War of 1812 British re-enactor from Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, Canada. Re – enacting is probably the best hobby in the world!
I discovered re-enacting when I was 6 or 7 years old . My mother is a curator at the Ermatinger Cleurge National Historic Site and they have an 1812 event every September. When I was 6, I only knew about voyageurs and Coureur Du Bois who are men and women who would tell stories about the life of a voyageur. But when I heard about 1812 re- enacting I wanted to learn more about it. I started learning drills from Mr. Kevin Brooks an 1812 re-enactor from Barrie, Ontario for 2 years while he attended events at the Ermatinger Site in Sault Ste. Marie. After the 2 years my mother and I decided we would go on a 6 hour trip with 2 of her co- workers to Wasaga Under Siege.
This event was the thing that totally got me hooked on re-enacting.
Before we left to go to Wasaga, I wrote a letter to the coordinator of the event Mr. David Brunelle about seeing if I could borrow a British uniform and assisting in the reenactments. When I got the “yes” from him at the event I was so happy I almost bowed down to him right then and there. His reply to me was very formal and properly addressed with permission from the regiment, with the closing comment: “God save the King”.

Day 1...
The next morning (opening day) of the event I was mustered up and ready for the day. About 2 hours into the day I was told that I was going to become the cannon’s powder monkey. The powder monkey was the most dangerous job in the War of 1812. If the powder monkey was shot then the cannon couldn’t fire, if the cannon couldn’t fire then there wouldn’t be as many casualties on the battle field. For this I had to wear a new set of clothes that pertained to the position, and also had to learn how to load, clean and carry the powder for the cannon. I even had to wear ear plugs in order to protect my ears from the blast of the cannon and the black powder shot.
Later that day I met up with my friend and mentor, Mr. Kevin Brooks. Kevin said that he came to be our regiments sergeant during the battle that night, and he would be there for the afternoon the next day.
During the Cannon demonstration with my new leaders / friends Colin and Andrew they let me light the cannon a few times which I held as one of the events highlights for me. The men were very good at training me, and providing me the safety precautions, and seriousness of the maneuvers. Then Colin asked Dave Brunelle if I would be allowed to enter the battle line with the Royal Newfoundland Regiment. Before the battle another member of the regiment.
(To Be Continued)

Characters of the War of 1812

2011-09-13T09:59:00.000-07:00

by Judi McWilliams

ELIZABETH SIMCOE - WRITER!
Elizabeth Simcoe's diary is said to be written in least three versions. The first contained brief, almost daily entries often combined with rough sketches. The others expanded from the first version with more detail and smoother style, with some omissions. She sent the entries back to England at every opportunity. Elizabeth also wrote about her surroundings. Her descriptions are very graphic and her diaries are full of colourful vignettes, such as the Epiphany service in the Roman Catholic cathedral at Quebec or a walk through a still burning forest fire. She had, as she wrote, “the picturesque eye.” She was especially interested in flora and fauna, as well as the food and medicines prepared from them. Elizabeth’s approach to writing was anthropological or romanticized rather than personal even though she was fascinated by the native people. It was said that her marriage was a happy one; even her husband was a shadowy figure, mostly though she was not interested in people. She wrote more about her little son, Francis Gwillim, said to be his mother’s favorite. Over the years I found that I was drawn to nature which I too depicted in my watercolour paintings and poems over the years. I however, found that I saw the images in an “impressionistic way” rather then “realistic” (not abstract though). I found that I was drawn to vibrant colours, while Elizabeth only had monotone colours to work with.
With this said, I thought it would be a good time to let you know a little about John Graves Simcoe, “the husband”.
(To Be Continued)

Characters of the War of 1812

2011-09-06T09:33:00.000-07:00

by Judi McWilliams

ELIZABETH SIMCOE - CANADIAN CHRONICLER!

As well as her diaries, it is said that Elizabeth Simcoe produced a large number of water-colours depicting Canadian scenes. They also exist in several versions, from rough sketches made on the spot to finished works which were sent regularly to friends in England. After her return to Wolford, it is said Elizabeth and her daughters made further copies of her Canadian views. While in Canada, she experimented with etching; in her first letter to England she ordered a set of engraving tools, because she had seen Joseph Frederick Wallet DesBarres*’s engravings and was “sure I can engrave to imitate them.” Apparently she etched only two small and not very successful plates, which were sent to England in 1794 and printed in Bristol and London. They say Elizabeth had two motives in her sketching in Canada. One was artistic; she was always looking for good views, and would travel long and arduous distances to find them. The other was documentary; she was intentionally making a pictorial record of what she saw. Quote from Elizabeth … “I took no sketch of a place I never wish to recollect,” she wrote at Cap-de-la-Madeleine. Most of the time, Elizabeth Simcoe was delighted in her Canadian experience. In her diaries and water-colours she has left a lively record of Canada in the 1790s, which is remarkable for its interest, detail, and accuracy.
(To Be Continued)

Characters of the War of 1812

2011-08-30T08:55:00.000-07:00

by Judi McWilliams

ELIZABETH SIMCOE - DIARIST

She was the wife of John Graves Simcoe, the first Lieutenant Governor of Upper Canada. It is said that Elizabeth was an accomplished artist and, between 1791 and 1796, as she travelled throughout Upper and Lower Canada, produced a large number of sketches and Watercolour depicting Canadian scenes. She was also an avid diarist and wrote about many of her experiences. They say the diaries and paintings combine to create a vivid portrait of both the raw beauty of the untamed landscape and the day-to-day life of a gentlewoman in pioneer times. I recently looked at several of her paintings from sites via the internet. I began wondering how she obtained the paper and paints to accomplish these delicate items. And, I am wondering now, how it is that they have been preserved all these years! Just who was Elizabeth Simcoe?
Elizabeth Simcoe left a diary that provides a valuable impression of life in colonial Ontario. First published in 1934, there was a subsequent transcription published in 1965 and a paperback version issued at the turn of the 21st century, more than 200 years after she wrote it. Lady Elizabeth Simcoe's legacy also includes a series of 595 water-colour paintings that depict the town of York. She was responsible for the naming of Scarborough, an eastern Toronto district, after Scarborough, England. The townships of North, East and West Gwillimbury, just south of Lake Simcoe in central Ontario, are also named for the family. In December 2007, a statue of Elizabeth Simcoe Gwillim was erected in the town of Bradford West Gwillimbury, while commemorating the 150th anniversary of the town's incorporation. The statue is located in parquet in front of the Bradford post office at the corner of John Street West and Barrie Street.
(To Be Continued)

Characters of the War of 1812

2011-08-23T07:57:00.000-07:00

by Judi McWilliams

ELIZABETH SIMCOE – WATERCOLOUR ARTIST!

Over the past, I have written about the War of 1812 from the barracks, rations, clothing to weapons. Today I would like to write about one of my passions, and that of a famous watercolour artist Elizabeth Simcoe. As a professional Watercolour artist, for about 25 years, I was very interested to read about Elizabeth Simcoe. For those of you who don’t know what Watercolour is... simply, Wikipedia describes it as follows ... “The term watercolor refers to paints that use water soluble, complex carbohydrates as a binder. Originally (16th to 18th centuries) watercolor binders were sugars and/or hide glues, but since the 19th century the preferred binder is natural gum Arabic, with glycerin and/or honey as additives to improve plasticity and dissolvability of the binder, and with other chemicals added to improve product shelf life Bodycolor is a watercolor made as opaque as possible by a heavy pigment concentration, and gouache is a watercolor made opaque by the addition of a colorless opacifier (such as chalk or zinc oxide). Modern acrylic paints are based on a completely different chemistry that uses water soluble acrylic resin as a binder." There are many techniques used and many different qualities of paints. This leads to my original question about preservation of Elizabeth’s works. Even back in the early centuries, the paper had compounds to preserve the works of art. This is an entire other subject matter. What interests me currently, is the War of 1812 and the people who lived during these times. Elizabeth Simcoe was just such a woman.
(To Be Continued)

Keeping It FUN!

2011-08-16T07:50:00.000-07:00

by Judi McWilliams

Fort Mackinac and Nancy Island

Mr. David Brunelle, currently the Project Director of the Southern Georgian Bay War of 1812 Bicentennial Committee, invited us to visit this year’s Wasaga under Siege in July, 2011. It was an exciting re-enactment of a portion of the Relief of Fort Mackinac, portraying events that occurred February to April 1814. The Upper Nottawasaga River is basically the same way it looked like in 1814 and was/is a great opportunity for those hearty re-enactors to experience the environment and hardships soldiers and sailors experienced firsthand on this historical journey. This river excursion was not a leisurely float down the river, as all participants were expected to pull their weight on an oar, potentially cut paths through fallen trees and log jams and get their feet wet, as low fast running water may dictate the guiding the boat by hand and feet. Naval groups got to experience some real first hand river negotiating experience! In 1814, from February to April, the Relief of Fort Mackinac took six officers, 130 men of the RNR (virtually all who remained fit for service), 11 artillerymen, and a naval party of 21. They marched overland, with supplies, during the winter from Kingston to the Nottawasaga River. Moving to re-supply the starving garrison at Fort Mackinac, in a remarkable operation, that demonstrated their capability and determination both ashore, and on the water. They felled trees to build 29 bateaux, and then rowed from the Nottawasaga River across Lake Huron to the fort at Michilimackinac (some 360 miles). They lost only one boat that was crushed in the ice choked waters. What is exciting for us today is, that we can visit Nancy Island, located within Wasaga Beach Provincial Park on the Nottawasaga River. The river flows into Georgian Bay, which, of course is part of Lake Huron. The Island is the resting place for the British Schooner HMS Nancy. Wasaga Beach was the scene of a dramatic battle during the War of 1812. Nancy Island is a great place to enjoy history - the War of 1812, Naval Nostalgia, beautiful landscape, water and pak excitement!

War of 1812 - Interview Series

2011-08-09T07:00:00.000-07:00

by Judi McWilliams

Anne Brooks - Part Eight (Continued)

The 1812 Grand Tactical...

The following is a continuation of last week's article...
Here is an excerpt from their website … “The 1812 Royal Scots Grenadiers are a recreated re-enactment unit of the War of 1812 created by the Upper Canada Military Re-enactment Society. The Royal Scots are the oldest, and therefore most senior, infantry regiment of the line in the British Army, having been raised in 1633 during the reign of Charles I of England. During service in France in the 1630s the Royal Scots earned the nickname “Pontius Pilate’s Bodyguards.” The French Regiment of Picardy asserted that their regiment was the older regiment, having been on guard at the Crucifixion. The Royal Scots claimed they were there too, as bodyguards to the governor! The First Battalion of the Royal Scots sailed from the West Indies to Canada in the summer of 1812 and landed at Quebec City. Because of the years spent in service in the Islands nearly everyone was suffering from one sort of sickness or malady to the extent that the Regiment was unfit for duty until the following January. The Royal Scots 1st Battalion was very active in Upper Canada in the War of 1812, being present in eight major engagements and many minor skirmishes against the forces of the United States. These included Sackett’s Harbour, the capture of Fort Niagara and the burning of Buffalo in 1813, and the Battles of Longwoods, Chippewa, Lundy’s Lane, and Fort Erie in 1814. The campaign in Upper Canada earned the battle honour “Niagara” which is displayed on the Regiments colours”.

War of 1812 - Interview Series

2011-08-02T06:56:00.000-07:00

by Judi McWilliams

Anne Brooks - Part Eight

The 1812 Grand Tactical...

Although Anne is not a member of any re-enactment group, she has worked with the Upper Canada Military Re-enactment Society (UCMRS) since 2008 at Fanshawe Pioneer Village. She has also kept busy with the Upper Thames Military Re-enactment Society (UTMRS) since 2009, on a volunteer basis. She has helped plan such as a living history conference and the Bicentennial activities for 2012- 2014. In conjunction with the Upper Thames River Conservations Area, these groups will be gathering on the weekend of October 1st & 2nd, 2011 at Fanshawe Pioneer Village for the Fanshawe 1812 Grand Tactical: The Invasion of Upper Canada. Here they invite you to experience the life and battles of a soldier during the war of 1812. There will be artillery explosions and Napoleonic demonstrations of warfare as hundreds of British and militia troops line up shoulder to shoulder to defend their country. My favorite will be touring the military encampments, where they offer 1812 shops, entertainment and great conversations with the re-enactors. On the October 1st - 2nd weekend the Royal Scots Grenadiers will be taking part. I thought it would be of interest to tell you a little about these folks. I found, my research most interesting and informative. I also found, with a little insight, that I will have a greater understanding, while visiting on the weekend at Fanshawe Pioneer Village, for their 1812 Grand Tactical!
(To Be Continued)

War of 1812 - Interview Series

2011-07-26T09:39:00.000-07:00

by Judi McWilliams

Anne Brooks - Part Seven

This now leads me to another favourite question … I shared with Anne that Volunteers are a huge part of all Ontario’s festivals, events, and fundraising activities for many worthwhile causes. Part of our volunteer base, in Ontario, is made up of the youth of today. I recently discovered that approximately 5 million volunteers, in Ontario alone, are helping our economy. They are not only increasing revenue into our communities and decreasing personnel costs, but adding a work force that would cost 8-10 billion dollars in time alone! I was wondering if Anne, with her current roles, encouraged today's youth to participate in re-enactments? Anne answers … “I don’t know if I encourage youth to participate in re-enactments but I encourage them to learn about their history and I think re-enactments and living history are good ways to go about this. It is a lot more interesting to go to a re-enactment to learn about a battle during the War of 1812 over reading a chapter or two in a text book. I know that I enjoyed going to the old forts and re-enactments at a child so I hope that other children feel the same way.” Over the course of the year, I am collecting some anecdotes to publish in our THE INSIDE SCOOP special “anecdote” edition? With this Anne thought to share this with us … “Many of the War of 1812 Groups are spin offs of the Upper Thames Military re-enactment Society. There were not as many re-enactment groups until the mid to late 1980s. The Upper Thames Military re-enactment Society started out when one guy put an ad in the pennysaver.”
(To Be Continued)

War of 1812 - Interview Series

2011-07-19T11:47:00.000-07:00

by Judi McWilliams

Anne Brooks - Part Six

I feel that it is important to share the insights of the leaders in the industry of events and festivals and with the organizers/participants that will be leading us into exciting activities for the upcoming War of 1812 Bicentennial Celebrations.

I left off my last article talking with Anne Brooks, Marketing and Communications Coordinator at Fanshawe Pioneer Village in London. I asked her one of my favourite questions about why “living history” is important to us today. I also wanted to know if Anne could tell us what the importance of “living history” is, in her opinion, and in Fanshawe’s philosophy! It is interesting to share Anne’s insight here … “Fanshawe Pioneer Village uses the technique of living history to convey the message of what it may have been like to live between 1820 – 1920. We provide third person interpretation most of the time and then we have first person interpretation for certain special events such as our dance weekend and our War of 1812 weekend. Many adults respond well to third person interpretation because they can ask a lot of questions about what could have happened. Children respond better to first person interpretation, so when we have our War of 1812 or WW1 Ed days the kids tend to absorb a lot more through this type of learning experience by War re-enactors. I personally tend to think that certain people learn better by different ways, no matter what their age is. Although I am a good reader, and spend a lot of time reading, there are many times when it is a lot easier for me to understand what is going on by seeing it actually happen. I do think there is great importance in projecting “living history” because it is a different way to learn about the past and really understand what could have taken place.”
(To Be Continued)

War of 1812 - Interview Series

2011-07-12T10:44:00.001-07:00

by Judi McWilliams

Anne Brooks - Part Five

What better person to ask than Anne to help us learn what advice she would give to someone wanting to participate in re-enacting? “Visit a re-enactment and talk to numerous people and different groups. Each group is very different, different personalities and different values for what they do in the community and how their group runs. Ask a lot of questions.” I find this to be every sound advice. I received similar advice from teacher/re-enactor Mr. Chris Robins. He too suggested that you borrow the period clothing, take part and make sure you really enjoy re-enacting, before you start investing lots and lots of money. As some of you may know, I have been on a quest to understand why “living history” is important to us today and why the Celebrations of the War of 1812 were important also. Anne said … “I think it is important for people to learn about their history. The war of 1812 was a very large part of Canadian history and I really feel like people do not know a great deal about what happened. It is important to celebrate the heroic actions of the soldiers who lived and died in the War of 1812. You can’t move on to the future until you learn from the past.”
(To Be Continued)

War of 1812 - Interview Series

2011-07-05T10:36:00.000-07:00

by Judi McWilliams

Anne Brooks - Part Four

Anne was kind to share with us a little about some of the challenges that the “audience” does not see during the re-enactments. … “One of the biggest challenges is safety, what we can do to make sure that not only re-enactors but also visitors are safe, what looks cool, but is still safe. Visitors want to get close and see everything and the biggest challenge is making sure everyone is safe. Battle plans are drawn up ahead of time. The area is mapped out months in advance and the scenarios are discussed at least a day or so in advance and re-enactors are told what the scenario involves”. I was curious how someone would overcome some of these challenges. Anne shares with me … “Patience, and asking lots of questions. I will ask anything and everything from re-enactors so I know what is going on. I need to be aware of what their plans are for safety reasons, so visitors can be made aware of what is going on, and what re-enactors expect from me as a site. I need to be able to please re-enactors, visitors, staff and volunteers so there are a lot of people I have to talk to and organize with to make sure everything happens and that everyone is happy.”
(To Be Continued)

War of 1812 - Interview Series

2011-06-28T10:25:00.000-07:00

by Judi McWilliams

Anne Brooks - Part Three
I wondered what kept Anne interested in taking part of the re-enactments. She tells me that it is “The passion re-enactors have for their hobby, I like to learn new things and re-enactors are always wanting and willing to share their wealth of knowledge with you.” If you get a chance to watch or be part of a re-enactment, battle or encampment, I can share with you some of what there is to enjoy and why. I enjoy visiting re-enactments and encampments myself mostly due to the passion that I see from these people and how much effort they take in participating. It is as if you were back in the period of time. It helps make me appreciate what we have today. What Anne enjoys the most is … “I have met a lot of people through re-enactments, so I enjoy talking to re-enactors, getting to know them, and seeing why they enjoy spending their weekends at re-enactments.” There are costs involved, as I have talked about before, but from Anne I was able to further the knowledge of what other kinds of costs are associated with hosting a re-enactment? She tells me … “It depends on the site, each site has separate costs associated with the event, depending on what they want at the event, and what is important to them cost wise. We provide one free meal to all the re-enactors, we have overnight security to make sure everyone is safe. Most re-enactments need to have St. John’s Ambulance. We have a sound system so visitors can get a play by play of what is going on and the meaning behind it.”
(To Be Continued)

War of 1812 - Interview Series

2011-06-21T10:15:00.000-07:00

by Judi McWilliams

Anne Brooks - Part Two

As you may know by now, I like to talk about “The Ten Foot Rule” (see article). I just had to ask Anne what her thoughts were about how true to authenticity both she and her groups were in regards to their equipment and re-enactments battles and encampments. I laughed when Anne shared with me … “I am not a very good re-enactor, my dress and outfit isn’t authentic. I just need a dress that passes for a re-enactor, I know I need a new dress this year, since my other one got destroyed by the rain that would not let up at Fanshawe Pioneer Village’s re-enactment last year, so I know I will either make one or buy one for less than $100…If I wanted to get a more accurate one, that was better quality, I would probably spend $300 or so, depending on what I got. I just need a simple one, though, because I don’t attend many re-enactments in kit. I am also horrible at wearing bonnets… I “accidently” forget them so I don’t have to wear them. Fanshawe Pioneer Village does try to stay authentic in regards to re-enactments, but we also have the challenge of being a village that represents the 1820’s to the 1920’s, but we have a re-enactment that represents 1812.” In regards to the regiment, Anne shares that …”I am not in a group, my boyfriend is in the UTMRS and they are pretty true to authenticity, his group is always doing research and trying to find out as much as they can on the First Royal Scots.”
(To Be Continued)

War of 1812 - Interview Series

2011-06-14T10:03:00.000-07:00

by Judi McWilliams

Anne Brooks - Part One

It is fortunate that the Festival Nomad and I met Anne Brooks in our travels. Anne is the Marketing and Communications Coordinator at Fanshawe Pioneer Village in London, Ontario. Located in a beautiful setting on the Upper Thames River Conservation Area, Fanshawe Pioneer Village tells the story of rural communities in the former townships of Westminster, London, North Dorchester, Delaware, West Nissouri and Lobo in Middlesex County, from 1820 to 1920, and the founding and development of the City of London up to 1840. Since our meeting, Anne has become a Festival Nomad Correspondent with our Ontario Visited websites, attending several events. She has written articles and taken photos for us. Although Anne is not a member of any re-enactment group, she does work with the Upper Canada Military Re-enactment Society (UCMRS) since 2008 at Fanshawe Pioneer Village. She also keeps busy with the Upper Thames Military Re-enactment Society (UTMRS), since 2009, on a volunteer basis, with events that they plan such as a living history conference and the Bicentennial activities for 2012- 2014.

With this in mind, I thought it would be interesting to talk with Anne about her knowledge and experience with re-enactments and living history. I wondered how someone gets started with their involvement! Anne tells me … “I remember my dad taking my sister and me to re-enactments and all the Ontario forts when we were very young. He is a big history buff. I didn’t learn about living history or re-enactments till I started at Fanshawe Pioneer Vilaage in 2008.” As I have traveled to re-enactments, I always wonder how re-enactors obtain the uniforms/equipment needed in re-enacting, and what kind of cost is associated with these? In Anne’s case, she told me … “I had a bonnet made for me and I have made a dress, and purchased other items from merchants at re-enactments. Most re-enactors either make their own outfits or they buy them from someone else in the re-enacting community, this way their outfit is more authentic then some random person who isn’t familiar with re-enacting. Re-enacting is very expensive, for a soldier to get started it will generally cost around $2000, but it can cost a lot more or a lot less depending on how you go about it. One can purchase old uniforms and guns from other re-enactors, or you can purchase brand new. I know there have been re-enactors that have spent thousands just on their soldier’s jacket.”
(To Be Continued)

War of 1812 - Interview Series

2011-06-07T13:24:00.000-07:00

by Judi McWilliams

Sandra Shaul - Part Three

ENGAGE THEM!
She told me a story that helped explain where she is coming from … "This year May 1st fell on a Thursday, the celebrations at Fort York were rained out, but, the youth attended, these kids were from Georgian region and spoke mostly Russian, 10-16 years old. These kids are being trained as Youth Ambassadors. When the Food Historian Cook spoke to the kids, saying that the food was Georgian, talking about cookies, puddings, and cooking in the rain, over the fire … the kids fell in love with the Fort, but, the translation was wrong. They were confused, the kids asked why the food wasn’t at all like at home in the Georgian region, what the historian was talking about was King George III." Sandra’s point to the story, “a new Canadian can be confused”. What was amazing to Sandra that this simple act of cooking over a fire, led to the kids talking about their own stories. The stories start to mingle and they learn to appreciate each other. Sandra’s point … “This story is about the level at which you start to educate, and then you expand from there! ENGAGE THEM!” Sandra says… “You get the right foot planted in the ground, them you move the left foot!” … "ENGAGE THEM!” With all this being said, I asked Sandra if they would be relying on volunteers to assist with their efforts in the War of 1812 Celebrations. Yes, Sandra says, they will need volunteers, but, went on to tell me about a volunteer of the Youth Ambassador Program. This volunteer who runs the program works for the City of Toronto. This program is a leadership program for new Canadians. They want to start an exchange program with Buffalo-Toronto Youth, reaching out to the priority neighborhood children. Sandra has plans and challenges for her promotion of the upcoming special War if 1812 Be-Centennial Celebration. But, Sandra has passion for both her community and the people who live in it and visit it. She has a vision, ENGAGE THEM for success!

War of 1812 - Interview Series

2011-05-31T13:07:00.000-07:00

by Judi McWilliams

Sandra Shaul - Part Two

200 Years of Peace!
Sandra tells me “our National message is how the War planted the seeds to form our nation”. She went on to tell me “that the seeds were planted for the formation of the Nation, we have 2 distinct Nations that continue to grow in North America”. Sandra is asked often by people … “aren’t we all the same”? … To which she replies to them … “Boy if you think that, you haven’t done your homework!” Sandra went on to say that she is not fond of the statement … “We are all one, the same” … she states … “we are not! We all have something unique to add to the society and the communities we live in”! Ms. Shaul says “We are really a different society” (from that of the US). She seems to dislike the saying …“together we are all the same, together as one”! She was born in USA, and has dual citizenship leading a life in both countries. She quotes herself as “multi-generational”! This is in part where Sandra finds herself today … trying to convey a message to a multi-generational, multi-cultural society. In particular. Sandra wants to articulate to people “What does 200 years of peace mean” Sandra quotes herself “good at spinning”, but she does not need to “spin” stories about the War of 1812 and re-enacting etc. She went on to say that “you can’t kid them”, they know their stuff! Sandra helps me understand “that the challenges in Toronto start when you start talking with the youth about the War of 1812 and that it occurred right here at Lake Ontario at Fort York." The students ask “what Lake?” "They live in areas such as the Jane/Finch area and never get to travel outside the immediate location”.
(To be continued)

War of 1812 - Interview Series

2011-05-24T01:13:00.000-07:00

by Judi McWilliams

Sandra Shaul - Part One

The War of 1812 in Toronto
Plans are well under way for the War of 1812 Bi-centennial Celebrations. I have been on a quest to understand why “living history” and “re-enactments” are important to us today. Each and every time I interview different people, I learn something new. What I wasn’t expecting was a completely new perspective that Ms. Sandra Shaul, City of Toronto, Museum Administrator, Special Projects, shared with me. Ms. Shaul is also the Museum Administrator Special Projects Bicentennial War of 1812 Museums and Heritage Services City of Toronto Cultural Services. She has some insights and perspectives that are highly relevant, enlightening and informative. Sandra has a distinct message that is different from the other Regional areas of Bicentennial celebrations. The demographics of the Toronto area and region are not rural and have a very distinct audience from other areas. Sandra’s region is composed of about 2.6 million people, 50% born outside Canada, thus creating a vast diversity of multi-cultural and diverse ethnic backgrounds. Sandra tells me part of her challenge stems from the marketing question of WIFM (What’s in it for me?). What does the War of 1812 have to do with me? Ms. Shaul says the big answer is “we are a different country because of that War”. Sandra is constantly amazed in how much the War of 1812 is reflected in our lives today! Sandra quotes herself as “not a military bluff”, but she is surprised how much she has learnt. She says “if you understand the context of the War of 1812, and that it should never have happened, you will see how it has led to who we are today”. Because of the multi-cultural diversity in the Toronto region, Sandra tells me she was surprised by a question when asked, “do you think “the people” will want to be part of the Bicentennial Celebrations”, Sandra said, “you mean us, the people”! What Ms. Shaul tells me is that “Toronto wants to tell the stories of the War of 1812 and engage the all the people of this dynamic diversity to make them feel part of it!” What Sandra is looking for in Toronto “is balance of honoring the memory regardless of who fought in the War”? She wants to “focus on the social history of the time AND the 200 years since … who we are today and how we became here!” The City of Toronto was working on a slogan for the upcoming Bi-centennial celebrations, but Sandra’s goal was to try to fill the gap! Sandra believes, in part, that the big message to be conveyed, is to focus on the 200 years of peace.
(To be continued)

Keeping It FUN!

2011-05-17T16:48:00.000-07:00

by Judi McWilliams

Chris Robins - Part Seven

"The Ten Foot Rule..."
I asked Mr. Robins if he knew about “the ten foot rule”. I wrote about this in my article dated October 20th, 2010 called "Do You Pass the Ten Foot Rule?". Chris had not heard of this, but tells me that his uniforms are mostly accurate for the time. His hunting frocks, as he says, “look kind-of cool". They are made out of linen, which was authentic to the time, but, during the summer re-enactments, are a whole lot more comfortable! I asked him if spectators were critical of either the authenticity of their uniforms, gear or the actual battles themselves that they re-enact. He states, only twice, once being a re-enactment of the American Civil War in Norwood, where a spectator wanted to see the War of 1812, not the American’s. Chris was ready with a great response to this criticism by inviting the gentleman back next year to watch the 1812 battle! And, sure enough, the gentleman showed up that following year! The other criticism that Chris immediately fixed was that of an incorrectly labeled musket on his website. In doing so, he came to see the actual Baker riffle, when a gentleman took the time to bring it along to show him. This leads me right back to where Chris started, when he said he loves the live of re-enactments and living history. He tells me that “it just was the way they did things”. His final story of the day was a time when he was in a re-enactment. There was no wind at the time and many cannons went off leaving a thick mass of smoke in the air. He was portraying a British soldier that day and they did not know how many folks they would be “battling”. Suddenly jackets started to appear coming right through the dense smoke, hundreds of jackets, hundreds of men. Chris tells me that he said out loud “ that’s so cool” (and I saw the glimmer in his eyes even though we were just standing in his classroom as he remembered) … then he said out loud “we’re so screwed”. Chris does re-enacting for the love of it, but, mostly, as I’ve witnessed, he does it for the FUN of it!

Keeping It FUN!

2011-05-10T16:44:00.000-07:00

by Judi McWilliams

Chris Robins - Part Six

"History Class"
The students were working on three dimensional projects making forts out of wood, clay, wire mess, twigs, paint, glue and fun stuff. While the students were making their bunkers/forts, Chris finally got to share with me an exciting part of my day with him, that being his “Christmas decoration trunk”. This is where he keeps his prize possessions, the uniforms for the re-enactment battles. He even has a dedicated space in his home, in the basement crawl space, which is cement. It's clean and dry! There you will find over 15 extra large "Christmas decoration trunks" full of treasures! Without the support of Chris’s spouse, he tells me it would be impossible to have obtained, created, sown! They dedicate so much of their lives to the life of re-enacting! His spouse supports him fully, but, the first condition, apparently, was that she was willing to sew the uniforms, but he, too, would have to learn how to sow! This is where I got excited! Chris opened the treasure box and the amazement began! First up were the Northumberland Militia Soldier uniforms. Chris and his wife meticulously and professionally sewed each uniform. The jackets mostly start out as everyday suit jackets, that they pick up at our local thrift shops. Chris has an amazing eye when it comes to altering clothing. He can take a double breasted suit, add buttons, cut, hem, add too, and take off, all in the part of spectacular replica uniforms! He has approximately 19 sets of the Northumberland uniforms. The helmets themselves are also hand-made. They take Bristol boards, sculpt them, add felt, and then spray for protection. They hand braid the rope around the hat and then use a vinyl peak. The plume that gets inserted into the helmet is also handmade from wool and a coat hanger manipulated to fit! Chris has 12 sets of the red US Infantry, with the engraved metal plaques on the helmet. The plaques engraved by a local engraver. He has uniforms of the incorporated militia of Upper Canada. The Imuk unit is based out of Port Perry. The plates are so intricate that they had to purchase them at an expensive in the amount of $60 for each gold plated plaque. Chris proudly shows me one of the 16 sets of the First Kentucky Mounted Jacket unit. He says it is a little ironic for them to be called that, as they just rode to the battle, and then jumped off to fight. These amazing uniforms were sown from scratch, about three years ago, by his students. Sixty, yes I said, sixty units were made of the cartridge boxes used by students. They were hand-made by a friend from one of the re-enactment groups.
(To be continued)

Keeping It FUN!

2011-05-03T14:37:00.000-07:00

by Judi McWilliams

Chris Robins - Part Five

"Practice Continued"
The students were extremely intent on listening to Mr. Robins and learning. A few of the seasoned students, in their fourth year of re-enacting, hammed it up a bit. But, when it became time to be serious, they were! As they practiced, Chris tossed in a scenario about being in battle, saying that if you see people in different uniforms, we kill them! The kids laughed and cheered! Chris explains to the students that the chance of getting wounded and not killed were better while marching in close line. A very interesting part of the lesson was teaching them to walk “right oblique”. As he explained the process to the kids, it looked to me like a bunch of kids walking in a drunken disorderly way, putting a left foot down and swinging the right foot forward and off to the side! Chris was so funny, even the students laughed, when he said “you try this now, me, I’m getting the heck out of the way. We will be over here laughing … or we will be amazed.”! The students marched in the "oblique way" and we were amazed! No one tripped over anyone else. As Chris told them … “not too shabby at all!” I had a chance to ask Chris why the soldiers would march this way in battle. He said that it was a great way to get from here to there, at a 45 degree angle, while the soldier kept facing forward to the enemy. I guess, too, they are less likely to be hit, as they zig zag with no definite pattern. Our time in drill practice seemed to fly by, the school bell rang out again and Chris invited me back to his homeroom for a grade ten history class.
(To be continued)

Keeping It FUN!

2011-04-26T14:06:00.000-07:00

by Judi McWilliams

Chris Robins - Part Four

"Musket Accuracy"
He explained so much to me, that I was overwhelmed. Mr. Robins is extremely well educated and trained in this field. I now find myself feeling inadequate to restating all he told me! I believe he told me that the muskets were not that accurate. So, if a group of men, shoulder to shoulder, shot all at the same time, the chances of hitting someone were greater. The object was to break the other sides line. The strategy, then, was for the soldiers load quickly and hold in line. However, the muskets sometimes used were not accurate as others. They would often use better weapons and sacrifice loading time for accuracy of the equipment. Some re-enactments, that Gary and I have been to, end with the Generals or Officers in Command holding discussions. They often take their helmets off and shake hands. I asked Chris what this was all about, as we could see them but not hear them. Chris said that in the War of 1812, this occurred often. Perhaps the opposing army was surrendering, or a truce was sometimes called, just to get the wounded out and then the battle would then continue.

"Practice Make Perfect"
I heard a school bell ringing and some of the students appeared in Mr. Robin’s history class room. He told them to grab a quick bit to eat and that we would meet in the drama room. The hallways were full of students by this time, so I stuck close to Chris on our way to the drama room. In short order, Mr. Robins had the students in a line. Some were late arriving, but when all was said and done, 4 girls and 6 boys, medium height to really tall, participate in this drill practice. Some of the terms became familiar as the afternoon session went on. Chris had the students “dress right, elbows flexed, be friendly … but not too friendly!” He told them about lining up in first rank, second rank, compared to first and second file. Mr. Robins tells the kids not to worry, “everyone is extremely rusty but it will kick in quick”! Other terms were "finger on seam of pants (if you were British)", or "thumb on seam of pants (if you were American)", "right face", "right about face", "right reel, march!" One of the students laughed when she said “elbow buddies”, while Chris insists, great, but no elbow fights! There apparently is a “golden rule”, when it comes to marching in the wheel, with that being to lean into the wheel but look away, if you are wheeling to the left, look right for example.
(To be continued)

Keeping It FUN!

2011-04-19T13:44:00.001-07:00

by Judi McWilliams

Chris Robins - Part Three
"Dancing"

He dicussed the skirmish line and says that they react to what they (in the re-enactment world) call “dancing”. If you change up the “dance” you throw things off and that is a lot of fun Chris says. Part of skirmishing in company drill is being shoulder to shoulder, close order. Typically, Chris tells me, that first the re-enactors skirmish. The soldiers are the first out. This is the interesting part that I have not found in any of my reading so far, so I’ll share with you. The soldiers that are sent out to skirmish are extremely independent! Military skirmishers are called “the chosen men”, being very brave and again, independent! You needed to be very intelligent because you need to pick out the "targets" during the battle. Their job is to try to "kill" the important officers first. It is a much less disciplined way of battling and they can run and take cover. Chris says the flip side of this unique independence is the fact the no-one is right beside you, you are all alone! If captured, sometimes the special “chosen” soldier was given the option for parole, with the agreement that they would be set free if they agreed to not fight any more. During re-enactments, Chris states that his Kentucky Regiment often broke this parole agreement, and were re-captured (which Chris says is “kind of a funny thing don’t you think”)! He went on to say that sometimes during the re-enactment, if there aren’t enough Americans for the British to fight they “let them escape”! (Which, to me, is even funnier)? In a close line you at least feel more secure. I asked Chris if that just meant that they were just a bigger target?
(To be continued)

Keeping It FUN!

2011-04-12T13:40:00.000-07:00

by Judi McWilliams

Chris Robins - Part Two
"Living History"

In my quest to understand why history and “living history” is so important, I asked Chris for his thoughts. Chris states that from the history teacher angle, he sees the students enjoying the history. He is even surprised by how much they enjoy it. He now has over 12 students taking part in the re-enacting drills and actual events/demonstrations. Some University students still take part in Chris’s group. Most of the re-enactors have spent the time and financial investment purchasing their own equipment. The youngest in his group is his 18 year old son, a Corporal in the group. His oldest son, just turning 20, is a Sergeant. There are also a couple of 21 year old students and then the two “old guys”, with Chris around 50 something! With his unit, Chris tells me there are two groups, the “relatives” or the “honored relatives” (a good friend that everyone calls Uncle), students or ex-students. Mr. Robins says that sometimes, until you get involved with re-enacting, you underestimate just how important history is. What Chris seems to be very excited about is understanding why the men and women of the War of 1812 period of time fought the way they did. This is what Chris loves to teach the students of today! He even taught me a few things that I didn't know about the whys and ways of battles! I asked him if the re-enactment battles were choreographed, or did they “just wing it”. He tells me that some major battles are choreographed because of the educational efforts to re-enact precisely. Sometimes though, Chris likes to have “surprises”. An anecdote that he shares with me, was his re-enactment at Sagesto Harbour, where the orders given to the sergeant were “follow the shade”! The challenge for Mr. Robins was that they were in an open field, so they had to “wing it”!
(To be continued)

Keeping It FUN!

2011-03-29T08:51:00.000-07:00

by Judi McWilliams

Chris Robins Part One - "The Principal's Office!" Writing about the War of 1812 does seem to take you back in time! This next article is about an extraordinary individual, Mr. Chris Robins, History/Geography Teacher at our local West High School in Cobourg, Ontario and Professional Re-enactor! What takes me back in time, even before we began our interview about the War of 1812 and Mr. Robin’s involvement with re-enacting, is where we met? Recently, I wrote an article about an interview with my nephew Zackery Caron, a student at the West high school. Mr. Robins just happens to be one of Zack’s teachers and is still a mentor in the “life of re-enacting”. What took me way back in time, was waiting “in the principals office” for Mr. Robins. It was a tad humorous, as the students were called to the office over the P.A. system. The look on some of their faces was “fear” (for lack of better word), even though most were being called in just to pick up their report cards! The school is “old”, over 100 years old. It consists of three levels. Apparently it was built over several periods of time, some of the levels are split into half levels, all very confusing! With hesitation I was off and on my way to the third floor, down the hall to room "something or other". Chris met me with enthusiasm and I was instantly put at ease by his "excitement" to talk. I squeezed myself into a "very small" student desk (still designed for right-handed people), so I sat sideways to accommodate for my "left-handedness"! We had about half an hour to talk before we were to head off to the re-enactment training “boot camp”. I wanted to find out about Chris and his involvement with re-enacting! Chris was a student at the West high school and has been teaching history/geography there since 1987. His first experiences with re-enacting began in Norwood, with a local regiment. Here they re-enacted the Civil War period of time as apposed to the War of 1812. He is now involved mainly with the First Kentucky Rifle Regiment Re-enactment Unit, where he devotes his re-enactment time, depending on the time of year. He tells me that there are two types of re-enactors that he spends time with. The students are one type and the other type is his summertime regiment, that Chris calls the “real re-enactors”. Chris seems to always have a gleam in his eyes and a smile on his face, which made me laugh when he told me the difference between student re-enactors and "real re-enactors" are the people with "gun powder"! (To be continued - Part Two)

Characters of the War of 1812

2011-03-22T14:00:00.000-07:00

by Judi McWilliams

Relationships Continued (Part Two)
The finances of the regiments were a constant balancing mission. With budgeting for daily rations and such, they had to take all kinds of situations into consideration. Even down to how many children each soldier had. It is reported that recruiting officers received payment for recruiting soldiers, married or not, which was in direct conflict to their own rule to not recruit married men. As a result, they did not, in fact, stop the number of families recruited for each regiment. What did stop the growth of families, however, was when a regiment went aboard ship to sail to Great Britain, or when the soldiers were sent to Battle. How did the women cope with their spouses abroad or at Battle? At first it was reported to be impossible, and that the parishes were overwhelmed with the abandoned women and children. Parliament tried to implement Acts to deal with these challenges, but unfortunately, like today, in extreme times of hardship, people sometimes take advantage of the systems put in place to assist with finances, housing, medical expenses, etc. It happened during the War of 1812, where some women and children used fake documents to take advantage of the systems put in place. It was less expensive, at that time, to actually let the spouses and children go abroad with the soldiers, although they had limits on how many families could go. All of these findings are left to interpretation. The more I read about the War of 1812, the more I see that all rules were left to interpretation. After reading all this, I took a moment to see just how (remotely so) many things haven’t changed since 1812! People today still abuse our resources. I feel it was (remotely so) justifiable in the 1812’s to take advantage of resources to feed yourself and your children, but, today we live in a world with ample abundance. I believe that some people do take advantage by not taking responsibility for their own actions. I guess what I am trying to say is that although people did similar actions during that period of time, it seemed to be solely for survival purposes, was not wrought with rationalizations and excuses. A few weeks ago, I wrote about Daily Rations. I am now finding out more about the "daily ration allotments". The daily ration allotment rule stated that the number of spouses and children ratio would be 6 to 100 men. However, this did not take into consideration how many children were in each family. This would lead to overdrawn rations, leaving the regiment with a shortfall both financially and rations on hand. All of this information gives us some insight into the Characters and lives of the soldiers, their wives and children.

Characters of the War of 1812

2011-03-15T06:47:00.000-07:00

by Judi McWilliams

Relationships Continued (Part One)
The War of 1812 Bicentennial Celebrations will soon be here! We are becoming more aware of the wonderful events and festivals Ontario communities are hosting now and leading up to this occasion. I am still excited to share with you my research, particularly as I have recently discovered why history plays such an integral part of our lives today! I will continue briefly with the “marriage” issue, continuing with the Characters in the War of 1812. There are reports and writings as to what occurred in the War of 1812, however, I suspect all is subject to interpretation. Traditionally, today, a suitor would ask, out of respect, for the hand in marriage from the bride’s father. During the War of 1812, a soldier was required to get the permission from the Commanding Officer. It seems that as long as we “are in love” today that meets the basic requirements. However, during the War of 1812, the approval would depend on considerations, such as the woman’s honesty, her character, her ability to conduct herself respectfully, and (can you imagine), her ability to support herself! It seems that the approval also had to do with the number of soldiers, in marriage, that the regiment would be willing to support! If we do not get the approval from the father today, or others, we have the choice to elope. The consequences may be severe, but, sometimes families accept the decision and celebrate after the fact. But, during the War of 1812 it was a completely different story! If the soldier did not get the consent of the Commanding Officer, it is reported that the new spouse would not be allowed to go into the barracks of the regiment, or worse, the soldier’s spouse and children could be cut off rations, limited to personal hygiene regiments. Also, their abilities to travel and life’s necessities in general would be limited to cut off entirely. It seems though, that the regiments could not place restrictions on precisely whom the soldier would marry, but could place restrictions on the nature of the married life of the soldier. The complexity of the rules, regulations and policies during the War of 1812 seem insurmountably difficult to figure out!
(To be continued)

Characters of the War of 1812

2011-03-08T22:21:00.001-08:00

by Judi McWilliams

Relationships... (Part Two )

It is understood that the soldiers would actually desert their own unit to obtain an increased bonus for enlistment with a new unit, taking both enlistment bonuses (their old bonus being about $16 and in 1814 it went up to $124 approximately). It reminds me of my teenage days. Although my motives were often different, I did leave but then eventually returned. My parents often referred to my leave of absence as AWOL. “AWOL” stands for Absence Without Leave. Looking at the soldier's other options, the option of paying a hefty bail of twenty pounds was not always available to a soldier, so he did indeed go to the county prison to spend two days of confinement in a cold damp cell! The information further states the soldier was not permitted any visitors or provisions. Not only would the soldier become ill from the damp environment, not to mention the stress of it all, but he might never recover to his former health! To top off all of this, the soldier would be discharged from the army. The final option was marriage. Some soldiers, it is reported, took on several wives, with children by each. He would then move from place to place, although this became a burden to the parish and expensive to everyone in the communities. It seems that there was a low opinion of the women (although many of the women were modest and educated), who ended up in the barracks. In the barracks, they would become frightened, disgusted, and would resort to drinking to get through the ordeal, often leading to becoming pregnant. I feel unable to tell you more about what really happened in the barracks of these soldiers and to the women, as there are so many interpretations. In my next article, I will talk further about the Characters of the War of 1812, from the wives, to the soldiers to their families. I’m excited to share with you my research and particularly as I have recently discovered why history plays such an integral part of our lives today!

Characters of the War of 1812

2011-03-01T06:54:00.000-08:00

by Judi McWilliams

Relationships... (Part One)

History has its own way of being interpreted. There were apparently very few written journals, notes, and letters during the War of 1812. The knowledge that we do have, reminds me of the childhood game we played called “password”. The game starts with someone whispering a word or phrase into the ear of the next person, the word/phrase is then whispered around the table. By the time the word/phrase gets to the final person, it is stated out loud and is usually misinterpreted. Again, the evidence of the experiences of a soldier’s family and relationships, as I understand it, come to us by conclusions of evidence of archaeological specimens, pictures that survived, witness and generations of “gossip”. With the soldiers being in battle and away in encampments, I wondered how and when a relationship would/could develop during the War of 1812. It is said that there is some information that has survived as to the reasons why a soldier married. The information says that women of lower orders of society sometimes proclaimed that the soldiers were the fathers of their child, even though this was often not the case! A soldier was actually put in jail and imprisoned as a means for the parish to garnish the soldiers pay to cover any expenses the parish might incur for taking care of the woman and child. The common word entrapment comes to my mind and actually, as I see it, seems to be the basis of many modern television soap opera shows today. (I wonder if these actions were that of the women or the Parish!) Apparently, a wrongfully accused soldier had three options once accused of “bastardy”. He could go to prison, marry the woman, or the course of desertion. Desertion, during the War of 1812, was with reference to leave without permission without any intention of returning, often leading to extreme penalties being incarceration or even execution! Desertion for American soldiers, I discovered, was just under 13 percent.
(To be continued)

Characters of the War of 1812

2011-02-22T20:27:00.000-08:00

by Judi McWilliams

The Value of Our Past...
The War of 1812 Bicentennial Celebrations are coming fast and we are becoming more aware of the wonderful events and festivals that Ontario communities are hosting now and leading up to this special historical occasion. I have been wondering, lately, why it is important to recognize, reflect and remember the past! By doing just a tiny bit of research, I have found some interesting facts (perhaps fiction) that have helped me understand and appreciate this history. What amazes me are the efforts put forth by re-enactors at re-enactment battles and encampments in accurately portraying our important and amazing history! I had the opportunity, recently, to interview Laurie Siblock, Special Event & Community Liaison at Lang Pioneer Village Museum. Although the periods of time are different, Laurie helped me understand the value of “living history” and this understanding has helped me realize the importance of reenactments. Laurie states “Living history helps preserve both tangible and intangible heritage for future generations”. I asked Laurie why this was important. I really wanted to understand! Laurie seemed to be very reflective when she replied. She said “part of understanding history is to help us not repeat the mistakes of the past. It helps us gain appreciation for what we have today”. Laurie continued “it is important to get into the mindset and understand the personalities of the people before us”. Our ancestors paved the way for us and she appreciates what we have. Laurie mentioned the fact that it would have taken three days to journey from Cobourg to Peterborough! Our ancestors literally helped pave the roadways and the paths of our future. Laurie also said “the richness in the past can inform you and help you understand the present”. With Valentine’s Day just this past month, I wondered what kind of “relationships” occurred during the War of 1812!
(To be continued)

War of 1812 - Interview Series

2011-02-15T14:58:00.001-08:00

by Judi McWilliams

Interview with Zackery Caron (Part Three)
I asked Zack how does he knows what actions to take during the “battles”? His troop was completely down and he was the last man standing. And then a cannon went off and we saw him “fall”. I asked him what were his thoughts and could he tell me his decisions and actions at that time. He replied "Well to start, during the battles we are told what to do by the commanding officer, just with fancier terms. When I was the last man standing I was told that I was to be shot by the cannon, and so I played it up a little. I took a dive, sprang backwards and then went as limp as I could." I couldn’t let this opportunity of speaking with my nephew pass without asking him if he could tell us any interesting or humorous antidotes in his time of re-enacting. He seems to really enjoy the re-enacting and this was his reply, “Well, the funniest thing that has happened to me was at the beach reenactment. We were outnumbered by about 3 to 1. My part was to yell and scream and make a big seen and then run away! The plan was that when I was run backwards, the officer would tell one person to shoot me for running away! When the time came I ran, the officer called out, and everyone with a working musket turned and fired all at once! I fell! I couldn’t stop laughing so hard afterwards.” In other words, he had “FUN”! If my nephew, Zack, is an indication of the interaction of today’s “youth” with these important roles, it bodes well for keeping “living history” alive and well in our communities!

War of 1812 - Interview Series

2011-02-08T11:32:00.000-08:00

by Judi McWilliams

Interview with Zackery Caron (Part Two)
Re-enacting can be an expensive “hobby” as David Brunelle has mentioned. Fortunately for Zack, his teacher, Mr. Chris Robins has an ample supply of "re-enactment gear" to help the students participate fully! David Brunelle has told us, in the past, how much fun re-enacting can be for the youth of today, but I wondered if Zack actually enjoyed “the history” or “just the fun of it all”? Zack told me that he does enjoy history, but really enjoys ancient history, that being before the year 1600. We have watched Zack in full costume take the role of the “drummer” and he is good at it, (he also plays the drum set at a high skill level). “Drumming” in re-enacting for the War of 1812 is difficult. Zack tells me that the costume is hot and he can become tired by the end of the day! That doesn’t seem to discourage him from posing for the pictures that many onlookers take during these re-enactments! He would like to take the necessary courses to be able to take on other roles or re-enacting, particularly the use of the “musket”. It takes a lot of education, courses, dedication, practice and skill to be “allowed” to partake in this portion of re-enacting. He does put about one or two lunch periods per week into practicing at school during the re-enacting periods. Zack is interested but it may take some mentoring and continued effort to reach that next level. At this point, I should tell you that we have had the privilege of watching Zack “in action” on the field at a re-enactments for younger students and on a crowded beach in front of hundreds of people. We were amazed at how professional he was and how “true to character” he was. So, I asked Zack about the youth of today and him in particular. How did he do this? What mind-set was he in? Did he notice the crowds? His reply again was simple… "I don’t really try to be 'in character', it just kind of happens. When you dress up and stand and walk as a unit, it just kind of happens! And yes I did notice the crowds and at the beach re-enactment, (myself and another who were injured) were encouraged to interact with the crowd."
(To be continued)

War of 1812 - Interview Series

2011-02-01T06:59:00.000-08:00

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)

Getting News

2011-01-25T09:57:00.000-08:00

by Judi McWilliams

“Calling all Regiments and Re-enactors to order” ….Ontario Festivals Visited is a website dedicated to discovering, visiting and promoting Ontario’s great festivals and events. With the War of 1812 Bicentennial coming soon, we have expanded our site to include the War of 1812 Celebrations website . In this new website we explain, promote and honour the Ontario War of 1812 Bicentennial Celebration and the re-enactors who participate in them. Even though the official celebrations don't begin until 2012, we have started promoting and now with the hope that we can build interest in all that is being planned! The timeframe of the celebration events (2012 to 2014) parallel the events that occurred almost 200 years ago. I have already had the pleasure of interviewing Mr. David Brunelle, Project Director for the Southern Georgian Bay War of 1812 Bicentennial Committee. Check out my interview with Dave at http://warof1812celebrationnotes.blogspot.com/. Now, here is the point of this Blog! We are looking for interesting and informative information about you the re-enactor, the organizer, about your regiment, about your plans for the Bicentennial Celebrations and your plans for this year. Although there are other websites out there, it is our hope that we can provide an easy, fun and informative website for all to enjoy with ease. “A one stop shopping experience” so to speak! If you, or anyone you know, is interested in submitting information to our War of 1812 Headline News page or to our Event Calendar, just send us an "information" e-mail. Here is the e-mail address gary@ontariofestivalsvisited.ca . We are also looking for people to interview for our War of 1812 Articles section. We want to tell your story! All you need to do is to contact us by telephone at 1-888-818-0255 or by e-mail at judi@ontariofestivalsvisited.ca . We will make the necessary arrangements to get “your word out”! So, join in on the Celebrations!

War of 1812 Headline News - This page is updated regularly to provide you with current and topical War of 1812 Celebrations news and information.

War of 1812 Articles - The War of 1812 Celebration Articles contains a series of articles specifically written to tell you about the War of 1812 celebrations, its participants (re-enactors) and the people who organize and manage these events. It will also give you a glimpse of the past, help you understand the present and perhaps, show the direction of the future for our two great countries. Throughout the life of the War of 1812 Celebrations (plus before and beyond), articles will be added regularly.

War of 1812 Newsletter - This is a quarterly publication dedicated to promoting the various War of 1812 Celebrations and Re-enactments that are taking place over the next several years. Each issue contains articles and photos specific to the War of 1812 Celebrations and the events surrounding them.

War of 1812 Events Calendar - This section contains monthly calendars showing upcoming War of 1812 Celebration events. Each event is listed on the dates it is being held and, where possible, there a link back to the event's website.

War of 1812 - Interview Series

2011-01-18T05:22:00.000-08:00

by Judi McWilliams

There are many amazing people connected with re-enacting and the War of 1812. The Interview Series will include talks with event organizers, re-enactors and suppliers. Our first interview is with David Brunelle. David is a re-enactor, organizer and now heads the Southern Georgian Bay War of 1812 Bicentennial Committee as Project Director.

Interview with David Brunelle (Part Two)
Without hesitation Dave replied “Sergeant James Keating” otherwise known as “One Gun Keating”. James Keating was a sergeant in the Royal Artillery. He was skilful in the handling of a British field gun forcing the Americans to surrender Fort Shelby on the upper Mississippi in July, 1814. He later became Fort Adjutant at the military base in Penetanguishene. He was a prominent figure in the community and, as a promoter of public education, he has the James Keating Public Elementary School in Penetanguishene named after him. I wondered at this point if Dave Brunelle had a nickname. As a matter of fact he does, “1812”. Anyone who knows Dave in his local community knows him just as “1812”. Dave’s football jersey number is “1812”. When signing raffle tickets at his local curling league, instead of signing his name, he just signs “1812”. Perhaps being known as “1812” is less confusing for folks in the community as there is another Dave Brunelle in town. Our Dave told me that he is known at History Dave and the other Dave Brunelle is known as Basketball Dave (as he is coach for the local team). History Dave gets cheques in the mail frequently for basketball tournaments among other mail and phone calls for Basketball Dave. One time there was a full page article in the newspaper about a basketball summer camp in town with History Dave’s photo. History Dave is tall and athletic but not the correct Dave. To this day the two Dave’s have not met. The story is funny, but what is truly apparent is how serious Dave Brunelle, “1812”, “History Dave” takes his “hobby”. I hope you get to meet up with him in the field some day! He is a very, very interesting “Character”!

War of 1812 - Interview Series

2011-01-11T06:30:00.000-08:00

by Judi McWilliams

There are many amazing people connected with re-enacting and the War of 1812. The Interview Series will include talks with event organizers, re-enactors and suppliers. Our first interview is with David Brunelle. David is a re-enactor, organizer and now heads the Southern Georgian Bay War of 1812 Bicentennial Committee as Project Director.

Interview with David Brunelle (Part One)
With the War of 1812 Bicentennial celebrations fast approaching and many special activities happening along the way, I wanted to continue my research on the War of 1812 and find out as much as I could about it. It’s not often you get to speak with “1812” personally! That’s just what I did a weeks ago, when I was treated to a conversation with Mr. David Brunelle, currently the Project Director of the Southern Georgian Bay War of 1812 Bicentennial Committee. Dave is well versed in the War of 1812 as he has been involved in re-enacting for about 20 years now. He tells me it that it was his love of history and the military that initially intrigued him into this life of re-enacting. It has kept him going all these years. Dave was introduced into the “hobby” while he working as an interpreter at Discovery Harbour. Mr. Brunelle is currently with the Royal Newfoundland Regiment Bulger’s Company. It is now a Not-For-Profit/Charity group promoting living history. As I spoke to Dave, I began to realize just how much knowledge and information he had to share with me. For those of you who have been on the field in battle or at an encampment with Dave, or visited a re-enactment and have seen him in full uniform, you will see just how serious and professional he is while “in character”. I started my interview with him asking the question “how true to authenticity are you while participating in re-enactments?” Dave said, “as true as possible for all aspects, from all the equipment to the training, drilling and knowledge. Some encampments are out-of-public-sight, so the “authenticity” issue can have some leeway, as is doesn’t play such a role in the effects of the visual observation by the public audiences”. (My “Ten Foot Rule” applies here, I guess!) In seeing Dave at several re-enactments I noticed that he usually wears a particular uniform. It led me to ask him what his favourite “character” was while portraying in living history re-enactments.
(To be continued)

War of 1812 Discovery Series (#7 - Continued)

2011-01-04T10:17:00.000-08:00

by Judi McWilliams

Over the past few years the Festival Nomad and I have had wonderful experiences visiting War of 1812 Re-enactments around Ontario. We find these re-enactments amazing and extremely interesting! In this NEW War of 1812 Discovery Series, I want to share with you some of our experiences, while attempting to shed some light into the actual historic.

Christmas 1812 Style... (Part Four)
We Canadians, along with our French and Scottish counterparts, focused on New Year's Day during the War. It was more common to refer to it as “Seasonal Festivities”. Especially in today’s society, it seems that people are becoming more and more frustrated with the “commercialism” of the “Seasonal Festivities”. Society's “stress level” seems to be high, with the enormous expectations, we put on ourselves to provide so much for our families and friends during the holidays! During the War of 1812 the people from Upper Canada, American soldier “newbie’s” and Protestants too looked, with disdain upon Christmas decorations and pomp. So much so, that during Christmas, church was poorly attended and there seemed to be a cold indifference to it all. However, as mentioned above, the French Canadians and Scottish did celebrate New Year’s. The Scots called “Hogmanay”. Growing up, every New Year's Eve, at midnight, my parents would stand outside their front door and loudly ring an old large school bell and bang on pots and pans. We thought they were “crazy”, not to mention that our neighbours might get upset! But, as I have now learned, my parents perhaps weren’t “crazy” as we thought! I have discovered that this tradition started during the 1812 period of time, as the folks were making all that noise to drive out the old year and ring in the new! In 1812, they would march along to a torch lit parade as well as enjoying large bonfires. As far back as the 16th Century, the New Year’s traditions continued further with the French Canadians starting the New Year off by giving a gift. Even though our modern “Santa Claus” was not part of North America until around 1822, these gifts were given by most ethnic groups with such items as rag/wooden dolls, wooden muskets/swords, clothing/food/blankets/fruit. I believe this is where my parents also got the tradition of putting large fresh orange/apple/walnuts in the bottom of our Christmas stockings each year. It reminds me of simpler times, when I was young and how a single gift kept us amazed and occupied for hours and days . No matter how modern and high-tech our society is today, it thrills me that young children still seem to gravitate towards the simple part of the “Seasonal Festivities”. With all the gifts and chaotic commotion, children still simply enjoy playing with the “box” the gift came in. According to my research, it wasn’t until approximately 1781 in Sorel, Quebec, that the German soldiers brought Christmas to Canada. Several regiments of German troops, at that time, would have likely carried the Christmas traditions on during the War of 1812. At the least, an officer in the King’s German Legion would decorate a lemon tree with lights and oranges as his Christmas tree. They say it wasn’t for another 50 years that the Christmas tree became a common item in English society.

War of 1812 Discovery Series (#7 - Continued)

2010-12-28T09:59:00.000-08:00

by Judi McWilliams

Over the past few years the Festival Nomad and I have had wonderful experiences visiting War of 1812 Re-enactments around Ontario. We find these re-enactments amazing and extremely interesting! In this NEW War of 1812 Discovery Series, I want to share with you some of our experiences, while attempting to shed some light into the actual historic.

Christmas 1812 Style... (Part Three)
In Upper Canada, the 104th Regiment in Kingston had much more comfortable quarters and therefore enjoyed Christmas better than that of others. Some Officers were invited into the homes of local folks. An old tradition started at this time called “First Footing”. This tradition determined the fortunes of the families for the coming year by the first visitor on Christmas day. If a poor woman arrived at your door first it was considered a bad omen, while if a handsome man visited bringing salt or coal a good year was expected. Today, I believe we all enjoy our visitors no matter their arrival order, but as we go to elaborate efforts for our celebrations, I believe we are always relieved to see the last visitor “leave” so we can get some much needed rest! In 1814, they say that the most significant Christmas parties occurred in Ghent, Belgium, after the signing of the peace treaty ending the War of 1812. Apparently an American and British representative sat down to enjoy a beef dinner with plum pudding brought over especially from England. We are told the orchestra played “God Save the King” and “Yankee Doodle” while they made toasts and drank to the health of King George and President Madison. It seems difficult to obtain many recollections of the Christmas celebrations during the War. Christmas for some was recognized as an important religious event, where the Germans and English held a special church service, followed by a simple fine dinner with minimal decorations.
(To be continued)

War of 1812 Discovery Series (#7 - Continued)

2010-12-21T09:50:00.000-08:00

by Judi McWilliams

Over the past few years the Festival Nomad and I have had wonderful experiences visiting War of 1812 Re-enactments around Ontario. We find these re-enactments amazing and extremely interesting! In this NEW War of 1812 Discovery Series, I want to share with you some of our experiences, while attempting to shed some light into the actual historic.

Christmas 1812 Style... (Part Two)
There are some recordings of Christmas celebrations in the army during the War of 1812, but the festivities and decorations that we expect to see during our Christmas season did not take place during that time. For today’s Historic Sites and current re-enactment purposes (to avoid misrepresentation and the authenticity of the time) these sights might be decorated as a wintertime ball, representing the festive spirit and ways during the Christmas season and winter months. There are a few accounts of Christmas celebrations during the War of 1812. In the 1800’s soldiers were fortunate to be allowed “time off”, mid afternoon, to enjoy just a traditional Sunday, but in turn, had to forgo their time for dinner. 1806 brought better fortune to the soldiers, who received advanced pay, so that they could purchase three good meals for the different messes on Christmas day. They enjoyed religious tunes during Church, where the psalm singers and a drummer performed. With the abundance of food available to us today we seem to get “frazzled” with having to make choices, such as fresh turkey or pre-basted, home-make treats or store purchased boxes, wine or beer, canned cranberries whole or jellied, etc. etc. The food choices during the War of 1812 period were not very diverse. In 1807, the 40th Regiment chose to go to shore to purchase flour, raisins, fat and beer to enjoy their hearty feast. If the soldiers were in the field serving, their efforts were just that more challenging. In 1813, the 7th Royal Fusiliers recounted Christmas being successful by the contributions of every man. They contributed meat, wine and some money to purchase a couple of sheep for a meal, pies, puddings. this was all finished with a treat of fresh apples! They also enjoyed music provided by bandsmen playing tunes. They all danced to reels and jigs! In 1813, the 43rd Light Infantry recalled seeing a simple celebration at a corporal’s quarters with a poor woman and her child enjoying a small pudding by the warmth of a fire beside a tree.
(To be continued)

War of 1812 Discovery Series (#7)

2010-12-14T09:36:00.000-08:00

by Judi McWilliams

Over the past few years the Festival Nomad and I have had wonderful experiences visiting War of 1812 Re-enactments around Ontario. We find these re-enactments amazing and extremely interesting! In this NEW War of 1812 Discovery Series, I want to share with you some of our experiences, while attempting to shed some light into the actual historic.

Christmas 1812 Style... (Part One)
As the snow falls in Ontario one week before Christmas, I am well aware how fortunate our community is to be miraculously by-passed by the over 100 cm of snow that literally caused a “State of Emergency” in many parts of Ontario! We have no accumulation of snow in Cobourg, even though the temperatures are averaging minus 10 degrees even before the chilly gusty winds are taken into consideration! I feel extremely fortunate to have a goose-down filled jacket and warm attire. Recently I volunteered at Lang Pioneer Village during their “Christmas by Candlelight”. This is a re-enactment of early 19th century Christmas in rural Ontario. From my research, it appeared to be difficult to function during the cold winter months and at Christmas, during this period of time, especially compared with the modern day conveniences we enjoy today! If we forget to gather a gift for our friends and family, we can just go “on-line” and purchase a “gift card”! A lot of us feel so stressed and rushed in today’s society, that I believe we forget to recognize the simple pleasures in life and perhaps the true meaning of Christmas. As I have been writing about the War of 1812 and the re-enactments of that period of time, I wondered what Christmas, during the period would be like. The hardships that we “think” we experience today, like crowded parking lots, long line-ups at convenient stores, options and choices galore, seem minimal compared to the hardships during the War! Did they even celebrate Christmas?

(To be continued)

War of 1812 Discovery Series (#6 - Continued)

2010-12-07T15:17:00.000-08:00

by Judi McWilliams

Over the past few years the Festival Nomad and I have had wonderful experiences visiting War of 1812 Re-enactments around Ontario. We find these re-enactments amazing and extremely interesting! In this NEW War of 1812 Discovery Series, I want to share with you some of our experiences, while attempting to shed some light into the actual historic.

Beating of the War (Part Three)...
The terminology used in Drumming is complex. There are many stages in just preparing for drumming, each time you venture out. You need to “strap up your drum”. That is place the rim around your hip almost on your left side. You need to build up your muscles in your shoulders and back to be able to survive the day at a re-enactment (not to mention your sore feet)! You will need to learn how to hold the sticks correctly, learn how to let the sticks naturally rebound without being so stiff yourself. There are many terms used for drumming the sticks (as my sister said), such as double stroke roll, ruffs, flams, sextuplets, paradiddles. My sister, Carol, tells me that there is always the danger of your drum strap breaking and to quote her … “you end up hop, fling, drumming along. Loose a stick and get blisters double beating (hopefully you don’t get court marshalled when the flying stick hits the officer)”. There are specific names for the drills of sets of drumming such as Breakfast call, Reveille, Assembly, Drummer’s Call, Retreat and so many more. And don’t forget your “good posture”, a must for proper Military Etiquette. On a windy day, your posture might go right out to pasture! As my sister says … “just be sure you don't slip on the cow patty or horse poop”!

War of 1812 Discovery Series (#6 - Continued)

2010-11-23T10:37:00.000-08:00

by Judi McWilliams

Over the past few years the Festival Nomad and I have had wonderful experiences visiting War of 1812 Re-enactments around Ontario. We find these re-enactments amazing and extremely interesting! In this NEW War of 1812 Discovery Series, I want to share with you some of our experiences, while attempting to shed some light into the actual historic.

Beating of the War (Part Two)...
The initial decision in becoming a drummer might depend on choosing whether to become a drummer for Battle re-enactments, or to become one for educational living history purposes. It is an expensive hobby that begins with a few hundred dollars for a uniform and the equipment and a few hundred dollars for encampment re-enactments necessities, as tents and blankets. I understand that joining a unit may not be too expensive, if the unit has equipment to lend you. The drums can cost from $350-$600 and probably much more! No matter what the actual financial costs, you will need to be prepared to invest your TIME! As an integral part of re-enactments, the troop depends on you (the drummer) to attend! It takes time, effort, and loads of practice.
(To be continued)

War of 1812 Discovery Series (#6)

2010-11-16T10:40:00.000-08:00

by Judi McWilliams

Over the past few years the Festival Nomad and I have had wonderful experiences visiting War of 1812 Re-enactments around Ontario. We find these re-enactments amazing and extremely interesting! In this NEW War of 1812 Discovery Series, I want to share with you some of our experiences, while attempting to shed some light into the actual historic.

Beating the War... (Part One)
My older sister, Carol, is an amazing “Drummer”. She plays the drums for the Newmarket Citizen’s Band in parades and concerts. She also plays the tympanis extremely well! My heart stands still when I am at a performance or when I know she has a solo or important piece to “nail”. Recently she attended a festival as a Festival Nomad Correspondent for our Ontario Festivals Visited website. She took pictures for her article, while marching down a hill in a parade, playing the drum. It was an amazing perspective and an amazing feet (although I’m amazed she did not trip over her feet). I asked Carol about her thoughts of playing the drum for re-enactment’s for the period for the War of 1812. As accomplished as she is at “drumming” she informed me that "Drumming for Re-enacting" was completely different and much more difficult! She felt it would take constant practice and time to be able to confidently do re-enacting drumming. Carol says Drumming is very serious business. To quote her, “1812 type drumming is actually very hard. There are about 16 different patterns that one will fit any song. The drummer was one of the most important people in the unit. They also had drum signals for all sorts of things - like "get out of bed", "retreat", etc. The fancier the drum the more $$$ the officers had and probably the better taken care of by the troops.” I took some time to do some research on “Drumming” and found out that there is a LOT more to Drumming then I realized.
(To be continued)

War of 1812 Discovery Series (#5 - Continued)

2010-11-09T09:23:00.000-08:00

by Judi McWilliams

Over the past few years the Festival Nomad and I have had wonderful experiences visiting War of 1812 Re-enactments around Ontario. We find these re-enactments amazing and extremely interesting! In this NEW War of 1812 Discovery Series, I want to share with you some of our experiences, while attempting to shed some light into the actual historic.

A Musketeer 1812 and Now (Part Two)
While investigating the "how to’s" of learning all there is to know about how to use the Musket, I was amazed by all the terminology used. It would not only require a good memory, but an accurate one! An example of one command, when loading a Musket, is the term “cast about your piece”. To do this, "hold your left hand with the match, put the Musket butt on the ground on the outside of your left foot, make sure the muzzle is pointing away from you and others and the pan should point downwards". Oh my, that is a lot to remember for one stage of a long list of procedures just to “Give Fire”. I began to wonder how these instructions work if you are “left-handed”? Other interesting terms I discovered were “make ready”, “prime your piece”, “place the charge, place your ram, place your wadding”, “blow upon your colts”, “cock your match”, “present upon your piece”, “secure your scouring stick”, “open your pan” and finally “Give Fire”. All of these stages require specific foot stance, arm and hand positioning and a LOT of co-ordination!

Beyond this part of the battle, should the enemy not fall, some re-enactors may choose to partake in "hand-to-hand" combat. There are specific rules and conduct guidelines, of course, for this type of combat. It would not go over too well if an actual encounter became “an all out real brawl”! With any re-enactment, safety is the number one issue! There are strict guidelines about “gunpowder” as well, that must be adhered to. As frequent visitors to re-enactments, I was pleased to find out all of this information. It’s good to know the precautions are taken, and rest assured, we are safe!

War of 1812 Discovery Series (#5)

2010-11-02T08:20:00.000-07:00

by Judi McWilliams

A Musketeer 1812 and Now (Part One)
“You can actually visualize yourself being back in time! On the battlefield it is even more captivating. You can feel the intensity of the battle! Guns firing, smoke filling the air, soldiers marching and officers shouting orders, advances and retreats, all for the sake of authenticity! As the battle progresses, soldiers begin to fall as though they have been shot! They lie there as their comrades walk over them! The sun scorches their fallen bodies! Truly “in the heat of the battle”! There is so much happening; it’s hard to take it all in! Who notices that some of the “dead” have dragged themselves to the shade of the “old oak tree”? Who can tell that there are “dead men talking”! (quote from the Adventures of the Festival Nomad blog article “Dead Men Talking!).

From our visits over the past few years to re-enactments, I have noticed that during these well orchestrated battles not all soldiers actually “fire” their Muskets. After a bit of research, it seems today that there are specific laws and regulations regarding Musket usage. Canadian law states that an antique (or antique reproduction) flint-lock firearm do not require a standard Firearm Acquisition Certificate, but in order to purchase the black powder you must have a valid Possession and Acquisition License from the Federal Government. Once you have completed the proper paperwork, the fun begins … the training!

(To be continued)

War of 1812 Discovery Series (#4 - Continued)

2010-10-20T08:29:00.000-07:00

by Judi McWilliams

Over the past few years the Festival Nomad and I have had wonderful experiences visiting War of 1812 Re-enactments around Ontario. We find these re-enactments amazing and extremely interesting! In this NEW War of 1812 Discovery Series, I want to share with you some of our experiences, while attempting to shed some light into the actual historic.

Do You Pass the Ten Foot Rule? (Part Three)
Beyond the actual re-enacting, I became aware of just how important being true to the Period Clothing was. Period Clothing now means, to us modern folk, that something is “old fashioned, junkie or, just outdated”! Ask someone “where’d you get that outfit … back in the 70’s?" and see what they say! Even the popular T.V. show “What Not To Wear” challenges people on “out-dated” clothing. However, Period Clothing to a re-enactor is clothing belonging to a very specific historical period and it needs to be is Period Correct in its accuracy! Apparently the "educated spectator" can be quite the “judgmental”! There are even terms used to demonstrate just how serious this "judgement" can be. The funniest term I found was “the ten foot rule”. This is a measurement from ten feet away. If it looks period from that distance, you just might pass! Who knows, from afar, if it's "leather or vinyl", has "too many threads per inch in the weave" or is "hand-made or factory made in Taiwan"? Apparently these “judgmental" spectators have disparaging remarks and names given to them from the re-enactors. Names such as “thread counters” and “garb snarks”. It’s a nasty game that I choose to stay out of! For us, we choose to enjoy all the extreme efforts put forth by the re-enactors and take pleasure being “transformed in time”!

War of 1812 Discovery Series (#4 - Continued)

2010-10-12T16:03:00.000-07:00

by Judi McWilliams

Over the past few years the Festival Nomad and I have had wonderful experiences visiting War of 1812 Re-enactments around Ontario. We find these re-enactments amazing and extremely interesting! In this NEW War of 1812 Discovery Series, I want to share with you some of our experiences, while attempting to shed some light into the actual historic.

Do You Pass the Ten Foot Rule? (Part Two)
The Festival Nomad and I have encountered such re-enactors and find that they truly added to our experience. Sometimes it’s even funny! Several highly skilled re-enactors stayed so much in character that it was difficult to follow the conversation. They spoke solely in the context of the period! Another time, two young re-enactors, although asked specific questions, kept within the period, as they answered the visitor’s questions. What was most impressive about these young re-enactors, in particular, was that when not being spoken to they continued the conversation between themselves in the period language. While visiting our nephew's War of 1812 re-enactment, it became obvious to us, again, just how important and seriously these young re-enactors take on their roles. In this case, the “battle” was taking place far down the field. This was where the majority of spectators were observing. We just happened to be at the other end of the field where the last batch of soldiers would join the battle. There were hardly any spectators there. However, the young re-enactors played their roles perfectly with all the correct commands bellowed and all the battle procedures followed! It seemed that these young re-enactors were drawn into the period, oblivious to “the spectators”. It was very real to them! They had become "living history"! By the re-enactors keeping within the framework of the battle, they drew us in and made the experience all the more enjoyable.
(To be continued)

War of 1812 Discovery Series (#4)

2010-10-05T05:35:00.000-07:00

by Judi McWilliams

Over the past few years the Festival Nomad and I have had wonderful experiences visiting War of 1812 Re-enactments around Ontario. We find these re-enactments amazing and extremely interesting! In this NEW War of 1812 Discovery Series, I want to share with you some of our experiences, while attempting to shed some light into the actual historic.

Do You Pass the Ten Foot Rule? (Part One)
We have acquaintances who are “Professional Re-enactors”. Some of them have extensive collections of weapons and costumes. Being “Period Correct” in uniform, weapons and language seem to be a high priority for 1812 re-enacting and re-enactors! If a re-enactor is wise, he/she will do his/her homework! There are many terms used to help navigate and keep the accuracy of a re-enactment true. Knowing what you are doing will help with the continuity of the re-enactment. Beginning with the language spoken, for example, a person who chooses to be a “Representative Interpreter” attempts to accurately portray a character that did not actually exist but could have existed based on historical research. “First Person” interpretation is a person portraying someone from the past who has no knowledge of modern life and doesn’t “drop character”. This leads to the “My time – Your time” interpreter who may say such things as “In my time we didn’t know about 'fast food' as you do in your time”. These interpreters know about the modern times as well as the past. This sometimes helps the interpreter communicate with visitors better than the “First Person” interpreter.
(To be continued)

War of 1812 Discovery Series (#3)

2010-09-28T08:59:00.000-07:00

by Judi McWilliams

Over the past few years the Festival Nomad and I have had wonderful experiences visiting War of 1812 Re-enactments around Ontario. We find these re-enactments amazing and extremely interesting! In this NEW War of 1812 Discovery Series, I want to share with you some of our experiences, while attempting to shed some light into the actual historic.

Our Daily Rations (Part Two)
As with any food, even with today’s top advanced technology, foods can spoil and nature can inhibit or prohibit the quantity and quality of food available. Limited supplies of food can result from bruised and damaged fresh produce (due long haul distances) or to droughts, torrential rains or flooding. In 1812, the challenges were more oriented to such things as lack of proper storage. In 1808, mice damaged over 500 pounds of flour at one garrison alone. Fish, (although not supported by the military as “seldom a part of the men’s diet”) caused concern over fluxes and dysentery. Fish was fine, when caught fresh and were in abundance in the rivers. Hunting was practiced by soldiers, adding grouse and pigeons to their diets. However, supplies in 1803, had a series of poor harvests thus reducing food surpluses. In the War of 1812, all able-bodied Canadians were moved from the fields into the militia ranks. As the garrisons increased in size, there was a decrease in farm production. No “job search” would help them replace the vacant positions in the fields. The army’s demand for beef could not be met. Alas, our military officials sought to obtain the supplies from the U.S.A. and thus reduce the enemy’s resources along the border (Free Trade today?) Pork was used in a similar situation and had similar challenges. With little variety and “daily rations” for many in 1812, it now makes me wonder what they would think about the “foolishness and waste” in our society today? Gluttony of food occurs today and contributes to many health related issues, including diabetes, heart disease, obesity and just poor health in general! Perhaps we should all be aware of “our daily rations” and treat them as kindly as the soldiers of 1812 did!

War of 1812 Discovery Series (#3)

2010-09-21T06:01:00.000-07:00

by Judi McWilliams

Over the past few years the Festival Nomad and I have had wonderful experiences visiting War of 1812 Re-enactments around Ontario. We find these re-enactments amazing and extremely interesting! In this NEW War of 1812 Discovery Series, I want to share with you some of our experiences, while attempting to shed some light into the actual historic.

Our Daily Rations (Part One)
We are very blessed in our world some 200 years after the battles of the War of 1812. We have many choices for “our daily rations”. It seems even on limited budgets we are able to provide ourselves with a vast variety of cuisine! Even choices of foods from countries from literally around the world! We have fast food, prepared, packaged, frozen food, take-out food, eat-in food, microwavable food and so on! For many of us, we get to enjoy the bounty of our seasonal harvest, with ample fresh fruits and vegetables. With the War of 1812 Celebrations upon us, it led me to wonder about the choices of the brave men and women who fought for us. I don’t think “foods of convenience” were an option, nor the full amount of bounty that we enjoy today. In our day of “supersize foods”, it’s hard to image a soldiers “daily rations” which would have to sustain them throughout the long hot/cold physically challenging ordeals that lasted all day long. In my research, I was interested to learn quite a lot about "Our Daily Rations"!

Breakfast was served at 9 a.m. consisting of bread, milk, soup, tea and sometime butter. A special privilege was purchasing breakfast rations, such as cheese or pork, privately. The bread being part of the soldier’s diet was almost solely provided by flour from Canadian farmers and deemed wholesome and good. In Canada many regiments had the mess cooks prepare the bread, although the British Army had it made by contractors. Some regiments had their bakers make bread or biscuits, that was then sent to the men who were off fighting. (Similar to ordering and delivery of special goods, perhaps our first glimpse of “take-out”).

The main meal of the day was normally served around 12:30 p.m. At the beginning of the War of 1812, boiling meat was the common method of preparation. It had been estimated that ¾ of a pound of beef (bone included) would produce a pint of broth per person. With various cooks, the soup varied, sometimes including oatmeal and potatoes, flour or rice and veggies such as peas, beans, cabbage.

War of 1812 Discovery Series (#2)

2010-09-14T05:57:00.000-07:00

by Judi McWilliams

Over the past few years the Festival Nomad and I have had wonderful experiences visiting War of 1812 Re-enactments around Ontario. We find these re-enactments amazing and extremely interesting! In this NEW War of 1812 Discovery Series, I want to share with you some of our experiences, while attempting to shed some light into the actual historic.

Encampments (Part Two)
To begin, the basic “rule of thumb” at the Encampment was that "seniority" set the Regiment arrangements. Positioning was from right to left. Artillery and dragoons were set up in separate areas, this to accommodate their horses and equipment. My sisters and my “arrangements at our camp” were that our parents got the largest tent with the best view! We children were squished in atiny tent! In the War of 1812, the Company sergeants had their tents at the extreme right. The Common tents housed one corporal and 4 privates (where I suppose they hoped for a good cook and bottle washer). Each mess was responsible for their own rations (see article “Our Daily Rations” to come), cooking of meals and clean-up. While the Common tent of 1812 only slept 3 or 4 men, this was no problem, because others assigned to the tent were either out "on duty" or in “sick bay”. The Company Common tents were set-up closely with only 2 feet between each and 6 paces between the lines.

Behind the Company Common Tents were the Company Officer tents. Captains had their own tents in the right flank. They were assisted by two soldiers, who would “cater” to their needs (although these soldiers got paid extra to do so). Lieutenants were on the left flank and only had one “waiter”. Behind the line of Company Officers, the Major, Quarter Master, Linemen Colonel and Colonel had their tents. It makes sense, then, that the final positions (kitchen, camp fire and ammunition) at camp were set in the rear, away from the main Company area. There are many other interesting facts and “rhymes and reasons” that regulated the encampments and their occupants. It makes our worries about whether or not "DVD players" will keep the kids occupied or “coolers” will keep our massive food bounty fresh, seem far from the important in relationship to the methods of survival in the War of 1812.

War of 1812 Discovery Series (#1)

2010-09-07T15:44:00.000-07:00

by Judi McWilliams

Introduction
Over the past few years the Festival Nomad and I have had wonderful experiences visiting War of 1812 Re-enactments around Ontario. We find these re-enactments amazing and extremely interesting! In this NEW War of 1812 Discovery Series, I want to share with you some of our experiences, while attempting to shed some light into the actual historic. The historical information contained in this series was obtained by researching internet articles. I have tried to present this information as accurately as I can. If you see any inaccuracies, please notify me by e-mail (judi@ontariofestivalsvisited.ca). Doing just a small amount of research has helped me understand and appreciate the efforts put forth by Re-enactors in their portrayal of our amazing past! Re-enactors truly bring our past alive and make it much more accessible to all Ontarians.

Encampments (Part One)
Re-enactors are “troopers” in the true sense. The Festival Nomad and I have visited several re-enactments of the War of 1812 through rain, shine, freezing cold temperatures, and blistering hot days. And I thought that we were “troopers” just by braving these elements! That is, until I realized just how much effort goes into organizing, participating and managing of a re-enactment event. From the encampments, to the accurate historic outfits, to the intricately orchestrated battles, it all adds up to a tremendous amount of effort and preparation. At the re-enactments that we have visited over the years I have noticed that neither rain nor shine seemed to dampen their spirits. Starting with the encampments, I noticed that there was a definite “rhyme and reason” to the entire set-up. Now a-days, modern “campsites” are usually booked and reserved spots. They are chosen by whether or not users want running water, electricity, a view of the lake or woods, and rustic or elaborate theme activities! Back in 1812 the encampments where chosen by tried and true specific guidelines and regulations.

(To be continued)

War of 1812 Celebrations...

2010-09-01T08:00:00.000-07:00

For some time Judi and I have been visiting historical re-enactments. The first re-enactment event that we visited was in 2007. We traveled to the Hamilton area to the Battle of Stoney Creek held at Battlefield House Museum and Park. This re-enactment depicted one of the important battles during the War or 1812. We had a great time and have become fans of historical re-enactments ever since! Some notable re-enactments we have attended include Wasaga Under Siege (Wasaga Beach), the Marine Heritage Festival (Port Dover), Rise to Rebellion (Georgina Pioneer Village) and War of 1812 Military Re-enactment (Upper Canada Village). Ever since our first encounter with re-enactments and re-enactors, I have been thinking about ways to further the War of 1812 memories and to honour the men and women who are now organizing the bicentennial celebrations. To do this we have added the War of 1812 Celebrations sub-domain to our popular Ontario Festivals Visited website. Ontario Festivals Visited currently attracts over 17,000 festival web visitors per month. It is our hope that a good number of these visitors will log onto the War of 1812 Celebrations home page. If they do they will find all kinds of exciting information! There are articles with photos about events that we have visited in the past and, as we visit future events, these will been added to our "Celebrations Events Visited" section. Festival and event news already plays an important roll with the Ontario Festivals Visited website through the Festival News section( 2,500 festival web visitors per month). our new "Celebrations Headline News" page gives website visitors War of 1812 news. Our "Celebrations Notes" offers readers weekly War of 1812 related articles - past, present and future! The "Celebrations Newsletter" will be published quarterly (more often if warranted) and will contain articles about upcoming events, celebration event organizers and celebration event participants. Finally the "Celebrations Event Calendar" lists upcoming events and each listing is linked back to the event's website. This is a free service offered to event organizers!

It is our hope that all "War of 1812 enthusiasts" will enjoy our new "War of 1812 Celebrations addition" and will participate in it by submitting ideas, photos and articles to us. Judi and I look forward to the War of 1812 (Celebrations) beginning!

NOTE: This article has been simultaneously posted on our three (3) Blog sites... War of 1812 Celebrations Notes, Gary's Blog and The Adventures of the Festival Nomad.

History First Hand

2010-08-12T06:34:00.000-07:00

On July 1st of this year our 15 year old nephew became a soldier! No, he did not join the Canadian Armed Forces! He did, however, join his fellow students and their history teacher in a re-enactment demonstration at the Cobourg Waterfront Festival. Seeing him and the other young people becoming involved in re-enacting Canada’s past made me think of the thousands of men and women and their families who dawn period costumes each summer and fall weekend to become “living history”! As David Brunelle, one of the organizers of Wasaga under Siege, said to me, “It’s like taking your family on an ‘old fashioned’ camping trip!”, old canvas tents, open fires, boiled coffee, toasted marshmallows and spending quality time with people who have similar interests. Besides, who doesn’t want to play make believe, shoot muskets and wear neat clothing! All that being said, re-enactments and re-enactors play an important part in Canadian society. With the great number of new comers immigrating to our marvelous country, it gives them the opportunity to learn about Canada’s history and why it is such a great country to live in. Re-enactments also help show how Canada and the United States became separate countries and how we eventually learned to live in peace together. Even if you are not a history buff, re-enactments are exciting and entertaining! The pageantry, colour and action all add up to a wonderful experience! Whether or not our nephew and his friends become further involved in re-enacting, at least they will have had a chance to experience “first-hand” a part of Canada’s history! My hat is off to his history teacher and all of those other adults who encourage our young people to take an active interest in living Canada’s past!