The increased numbers of German re-enactors at this year's Waterloo event was a clear sign of the developing trend towards more emphasis on the European groups and real battlefields. In looking at the groups which comprise the German Napoleonische Gasellschaft, I should add that the general commentary is mine and shouldn't be attributed to the NG or its units.

The Germans have come to re-enactment fairly recently. In the late 1980s, due almost entirely to the efforts of the American, Neil Morrison, supported by Phil Elliot-Wright, then Secretary of the Napoleonic Association, contact was established with a number of groups in central and eastern Europe, notably East Germany. For obvious reasons, the latter groups were somewhat limited by officialdom in what they could actually do and were essentially 'Living History' and cultural associations.

In view of the logistical problems they faced, their uniforms and equipment were remarkably good, although their method of firing muskets placing a lighted firework down the barrel and waiting - caused considerable nervousness amongst British units! As the 175th anniversary of Waterloo approached, groups began to emerge in West Germany and the 1990 re-enactment saw the first large group of Prussian troops.

Reunification and the formation of the NG continued the impetus to extending their 'Living History' into battle re-enactment and with the opening of the Iron Curtain, access to and organising events on the historic battlefields in Central Europe became much easier. Their annual programme now includes about four events on the battlefields per year,(2) as well as regular participation in foreign events.

Coming from the opposite tradition to British re-enactment, (which began as short battle events and has only recently extended into camp life), the NG has made grate strides in controlling and running its own events.

Alongside, there is more emphasis on the correct presentation of a battle or camp life then in the UK, which has now begun to lag behind in the accuracy of its displays. Nevertheless, debate continues to rage on the level of authenticity required.

Although I am not convinced anyone will ever go for the full authenticity of rancid camp food and long marches prior to battles, if the debate is taken up everywhere, it should result in better units in all countries. In terms of their enthusiasm for both authenticity and interest in preserving the sites, the Germans are setting an example to everyone else. In future, in co~operation with the NG, AoN will hopefully be carrying more of the original research obviously already underway.

About 20 years ago, there was a strong Prussian contingent within the British NA, comprising the 2nd Silesian Regiment and the 10th Silesian Landwehr, but that has long disappeared along with a Saxon unit.

However, within the NG, there are units representing the home side, French and even British troops - these units were detailed in the NG's Special Edition of the 1995 'Circulaire' (3), which marked the Waterloo event and forms the basis of this article. It is particularly good to see that a number of Confederation units have been formed, although most are still in their early stages - contact addresses are included for our European readers and anyone wishing to share research.

More Waterloo

French Troops
Confederation Troops