I so looked forward to attending the 2018 Revolutionary War Weekend at George Washington's Mount Vernon. I had never seen a Revolutionary War Reenactment - and certainly none at this level. I was very impressed with the amount of participation in both the Crown and Allied Forces encampments.
Mount Vernon is a huge estate and the perfect setting for a Revolutionary War themed event. When I arrived through the main visitors center, I was given a detailed brochure with a schedule of all the events for the day, as well as a map to the various sutlers and encampments. And, of course, the battle area!
As I made my way from the Visitors Center towards the encampments, I took this first picture - I was so excited to see these Redcoats.
I made it just in time to see the Drilling Demonstrations and General George Washington chatting to a few dozen guests in the bowling green - with the beautiful Mt. Vernon in the background.
I am amazed at the detail of the uniforms of these dedicated interpreters. I saw Redcoats, Hessians, and Highlanders along with a few more units in the Crown Forces Group.
General George Washington was answering questions and sharing stories of the war to a group of very interested youngsters and their families. We were all a wee bit starstruck - including myself, who was able to grab a selfie with the man himself.
The battle included cannon fire, musket shots, and a group of both Crown and Allied Light Dragoons - who were having way too much fun. One Dragoon even fell off his horse! Both groups of Dragoons were from the HIAFoundation based in Virginia.
After the battle I wandered through the Crown Forces Encampment. I have to say that their lunch was prepared with lots of love and it was a nice spread - salami, cheese, pickles, and fruit. I felt like I was at a Wine & Cheese Festival. Again, I was so impressed with the detail and the beauty of these uniforms and accessories. All of the reenactors were so very nice and hospitable and were open to answering any questions. I especially enjoyed the family atmosphere - many of the units had their children participate with them.
The Allied Forces Camp as located behind Mt. Vernon along the Potomac River. As with the Crown Forces encampment, there was a very nice spread of cheeses, ham, and fruit that these units were enjoying. I meandered from tent to tent introducing myself to all the interpreters and learning more about camp life. I met lots of youngsters with the parents and was very impressed with the detail that went into even the children’s costumes/uniforms. Everyone seemed to be in great spirits and really enjoying the atmosphere of the day - with Mt. Vernon looming in the background.
One of the highlights of the day was meeting the Fife and Drums musicians. They came from several different units. I am particularly partial to military musicians. It still gives me chills to hear the distant sound of a fife and drum on the battleground.
General Washington made another appearance, but this time with the Marquis de Lafayette. They shared stories from the war and insight into their very special relationship. I was very moved by these stories and at the end of their discussion, a little boy gave Lafayette a tiny yellow flower as a token of his love and respect for the war hero.
Before the last battle of the day, the Allied Troops convened onto the Bowling Green in front of Mt. Vernon for their formation and Troop Inspection. It was truly a spectacular sight to see - all these troops from various parts of the country gathering for their inspection. General Washington took his time walking in front of these men and women and inspecting each and everyone one of them. At the end, he gave a rousing speech and sent the troops into battle with high spirits.
In conclusion, I was so very moved by the experience of being around so many dedicated interpreters. I really felt a connection with these Rev War souls and so appreciated their hard work. The countless hours they put into portraying the time period - drilling in the field, cooking authentic dishes, informing people about camp life - really make you feel like you’ve travelled back in time. I really feel like a left with a much more better understanding of how it must of been like during one of America’s most trying times.
Below is a 90 second video highlighting the events of the day.
To view and purchase all the images from the day, go to the Gallery Page on this website.
