War of 1812 Discovery Series (#4 - Continued)

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)