Historicon 2002

Re-enactors:
British and French

by Russ Lockwood


HMGS is trying to forge closer bonds with the re-enactor community. Last year, as I recall, there was a Revolutionary War unit in Lampeter, complete with cannon. This year, keeping in mind the theme, there were several.

Left: Viva la France!
Right: God Save the King!

The French upstairs were part of the 3rd Cuirassier. At the time I stopped to speak with them, two re-enactors were manning the display. However, I noticed at different times during the show that several more seem to be present. Certainly, when I was back manning the booth in the dealers area, it was quite a treat to see them strolling up and down the aisles.

What a wonderful and colorful display. And they took the time to answer questions and explain uniform bits and pieces. I saw many folks flocking round. I saw many other folks flocking round the ATM machine next to their display table.

If you turned left down the stairs at the Hotel registration desk, you'll come to the Distlefink zone. Here, at the base of the stairs in the foyer, were the British. I spoke at length with one re-enactor who was a British Marine. He had a marvelous period map with all the actions in and aroun dthe Chesapeake Bay area numbered. To the right was a corresponding list of the engagements. A small encampment fit between the two stairways.

It's hard to say whether there were more British or French. Whatever the final tally, they added considerable knowledge, color, and atmosphere to the 1812 theme. I, for one, want to congratulate HMGS for bringing them in and want to encourage more of this! And, I would also like to applaud the re-enactors for taking the time to attend Historicon. I'd like to see need more synergy like this.

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