Fall In 2003
Convention Recap

Re-enactor Area

by Russ Lockwood


I enjoyed the re-enactors that appeared in previous HMGS shows, and this was no different. These folks are quite colorful and impressive, the more so because they are, well, re-enacting a more obscure period.

    Horse Archery and Winged Hussars Demonstration

    As a special attraction, HMGS has invited the Sienkiewicz Society--dedicated to celebrating the history and culture of 17th Century Eastern Europe--to demonstrate horse archery and mounted "Winged Hussar" Lancers. This equestrian presentation brings to life the convention theme, "The Religious Wars (1566-­1700), and sets the tone for the 200 historical miniature wargam­ing events inside the Events Hall.

    Lukas Novotny, head instructor for the 2003 International Horse Archery Festival, and others will be demonstrating their archery and equestrian skills on Saturday at 1:30pm and on Sunday at 11am in the Timonium Fairground's Pony Ring.

    Throughout this Fall In! 2003 weekend (10-5 on Saturday and 10-3 on Sunday), the Society will also be offering costume shows, and games for children. For adults, there will be hands-on classes in matchlock musket, pike, saber and cannon use.

    Since the earliest days of horsemanship, those who would control the grasslands of any country would first have to master the use of the bow and lance. Even up against the more advanced guns and cannons of the 17th Century, this ancient method of warfare was still often decisive in Eastern Europe and Asia.

Demonstrations included the cannon fire, a variety of drill with different weapons, and a display of horse archery. Now, the latter must take some coordination--riding and firing a bow! No problem at all on the wargames table, but a much more difficult proposition in the reality of the pony ring.

And when they weren't riding around, the re-enactors were walking around the show and playing soem 21st century games in 16th century garb.

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