War of 1812 Parks Canada 200 Years of Peace

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

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

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

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 ? ...

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? ...

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? ...

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? ...

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

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!

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 ...

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 ...

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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!

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!

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!

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!

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)