Napoleonic Newsdesk
First in the Field
by Paul Chamberlain
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The Napoleonic Association has a very high reputation in the field of Napoleonic re-enactment. A number of its members plus others have combined their efforts to produce a complimentary society; First in the Field. This organisation seeks to re-create life as it was experienced and endured by the soldiers of Wellington's Army, between the years 1808-1814, when engaged against the French in Spain and Portugal. Essentially this society is a living history group which, by concentrating on camp and campaign life, and by seeking to achieve the highest standards of authenticity, aims to educate as well as to entertain; to show the public what an encampment during the Napoleonic period was really like. First in the Field is not a battle re-enactment group, although many of its members are widely experienced in this area and frequently take part in skirmish and battle re-enactment scenarios. Their encampment is home to a wide variety of people. In addition to soldiers, representing the various regiments of the period, there are a number of 'followers'; the high born and the lowly, who help to recreate the atmosphere - the sights, sounds and smells of this most colourful period in our history. First in the Field has a wide repertoire of events that can be staged for the public. In rural settings an encampment is recreated, consisting of a detachment of soldiers who, together with a number of civilian campfollowers, have established their camp prior to joining up with the main column at a nearby town or port of embarkation. Period tentage is arranged around a camp fire where food is cooked. Soldiers post guard, clean their equipment, drill or just while away the time. Followers busy themselves preparing food, playing musical instruments, making or mending items of clothing and equipment. The public are encouraged to tour the camp, speak with the re-enactors and ask questions about the period portrayed. The group also stages events in suitable buildings, as if they were 'in residence', as well as taking part in street events such as carnivals and Regency Fairs. They have been involved in a number of significant events; such as considerable participation in various episodes of Sharpe; BBC Breakfast TV and Holiday programmes; Regional TV and Radio; documentary for Arts and Entertainment Network, New York; and Vanity Fair for the BBC. First in the Field aims to present living history of the highest possible standard. They take part in Napoleonic Association events, and stage a full programme of displays throughout the year in their own right. If you would like to join this society, or go along and experience one of their events, then contact: First in the Field, 2 Coburn Drive, Four Oaks, Sutton Coldfield, B75 5NT. More Napoleonic Newsdesk
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