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| Wilderness Woman |
Posted - April 12 2004 : 1:03:40 PM
...re-enactor! Almost! Sorta'... kinda'..... 'hem.
Well, OK. So I am re-e-e-e-ally just a volunteer. But! I'm a volunteer with the Chemung Valley Living History Center! This small organization has been instrumental over the past 10 or so years in keeping open the Newtown Battlefield Reservation Park, which was doomed to closure by the state of New York. (Long story there.)
We have been members of the group for several years in name only, giving monetary donations to help out. But this spring... and with the 225th Anniversary of the Battle of Newtown event rapidly approaching... I decided I really wanted to become more involved. If I can't become a re-enactor, at least I can pretend!
So, my husband and I have spent the past two Saturdays up at the park helping with the usual after-winter-clean-up. This winter was unusually hard on the park, with many, many trees down, and there is much wood to be cut, split and distributed around the camping areas. I actually operated a hydrolic splitter! Woo-hoo!
I will "break in" as a volunteer at the Ben Newton Memorial Civil War Weekend (April 30 - May 2). I won't have time to create my Civil War garb for this year, but I intend to be fully "dressed" in Rev War era garb in time for the 225th Annniversary of the Battle of Newtown event in August.
Am I excited? You betcha!
You can check out the park and the schedule of events here:
www.chemungvalley.org |
| 25 L A T E S T R E P L I E S (Newest First) |
| Bookworm |
Posted - January 19 2006 : 9:07:55 PM
Huzzah, indeed! Congratulations, Joyce, on being accepted as a provisional member (though I can't imagine that result was ever in doubt). I'll be sure to check the Regiment's schedule once the season gets underway so I'll know where you'll be. |
| Monadnock Guide |
Posted - January 19 2006 : 11:15:59 AM
Congrats Joyce, - I'm sure you're going to enjoy every minute. Best of luck, ... ;) |
| Wilderness Woman |
Posted - January 19 2006 : 10:28:23 AM
Actually, Qasi, much has changed in my circumstances since I made that particular post.
The Augusta recently made some changes to the By-Laws that allow a woman who is unattached to a soldier to be a part of the Regiment, which is why I was able to apply. And as far as "Things I Can Do", I have already been in discussion with our Chief of Distaff (who is also the Regimental Quartermaster/Tailor) regarding areas in which I can be of help.
I sew, and will probably be assisting the Tailor with outfitting our soldiers and campfollowers, as needed... I can knit stockings and muffatees... I spin on a wheel and am learning to spin on a drop spindle... I will be learning to cook over an open fire... I can certainly scrub clothes...
So, you see, it is no longer as hopeless as I had thought. I do appreciate your thoughts!
BTW... are you a re-enactor? Or just another very knowledgeable member of Mohicanland? |
| qasimoto |
Posted - January 19 2006 : 12:08:17 AM
Gee, much of that is indeed unfortunate, though where there is a will there is at least SOMEtimes a way.....I dunno, how about making candles in the old way? I don't think the molds or wicks cost much, though I have no idea of how expensive candle wax may be. Nor of what you're going to do with all the candles afterward; hope for a hurricane, maybe! How 'bout just simple plain old laundering, nothing saying you have to 40 loads per day. Soft soap's available or makeable, as is a fire under a tub, but I suppose that a genuine historically correct tub could well be costly. I don't suppose a 33 or 55 gal drum would fly. Or how about making soft soap? Should be SOME market for it, my wife somehow acquired some. GOT to be SOMEthing. How about cartridge making? They're small, easy, and not costly. And if you don't find a market for them, take them apart at night and start again the next morning. Or bandage making? Not everything has to be cannon loading or making 60 ft. flags, a la Ft. McHenry. Now there's a thought, how about hand-sewing replica Continental, regimental, etc. flags? Should be a GOOD market for those, they have flash and make great wall hangings, esp. if you sell them with a nice little note-by-the-maker in a colonial style. How about flint knapping? I rather think visitors might buy some, you could make light-colored ones for French .69 cal. muskets, dark for English .75's, assorted misc. smaller ones for pistols and smaller-caliber civilian long guns. And those're just a few off the top of my pointy little head, there've got to be many other things you could do that would be of interest to visitors and to other participators as well.
Frankly, I thing flags might be a winner. You could start them at home on a machine, and then just finish them up by hand in front of visitors while sitting in your (used, NOT new and spotless and pricey) tent. Looks more authentic that way anyway, maybe throw a few cups of coffee at it to be sure. Tent making itself is probably too heavy a job to consider--big thread, big needles, heavy material, customers complaining afterward about leaks or whatever.
Qasimoto
quote:
Originally posted by Wilderness Woman
quote:
Originally posted by Fitz Williams
You can do it all you want.
Well, unfortunately, it is not that simple for me, Fitz. It's different for a woman than it is for a man.
1. I don't have any equipment other than two outfits of clothing. I had thought that if I were to become more involved, I would become a sutler, but I don't have the finances available to me to begin purchasing things like a tent and all of the other things I would need to even begin.
2. My husband is not at all interested. Therefore, that makes me an unattached woman and I understand that many, if not most, re-enacting units will not allow an unattached woman to join.
3. I can sew, but would have to use a machine for nearly all of it, and many, if not most, units require things to be hand sewn.
4. I have no other viable 18th century skill or trade that would allow me to be accepted as a "useable" member.
5. I have family obligations that prevent me from doing very much gallavanting around the Eastern seaboard, not to mention a 10 year old car that makes me a little nervous about venturing more than two hours away from home.
So you see... volunteering at events seems to be the only way for me to go. Here in New York, there is Newtown once a year, and there is the Herkimer Home and the Oriskany Battlefield in the Mohawk Valley. That will probably have to be enough to sustain my 18th century life.
Sigh.
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| SgtMunro |
Posted - January 18 2006 : 6:29:28 PM
Congratulations WW!!! Although, I do believe that Seamus would agree with me, that the Augusta Regiment are truly the lucky ones. They have been blessed with yet another person who is passionate about living history; as well as getting someone who is pleasant to be around. You are now officially a member of 'The Club'.
Your Most Humble Friend,
The Sarge |
| Wilderness Woman |
Posted - January 18 2006 : 5:50:33 PM
Yes, Bookworm, it appears that I am going to get to know every inch of both I-81 and I-80 between Binghamton and the Sunbury, PA area very, very well.
I am most pleased to announce that on Sunday, January 15th, Mistress Joyce was voted in and accepted as a Probationary Member of the Augusta Regiment Distaff.
HUZZAH!
 |
| Bookworm |
Posted - October 22 2005 : 5:21:09 PM
Congratulations, Joyce! It's wonderful to hear that you're doing something you've dreamed of for so long. And to know that you'll be making regular visits to Pennsylvania! |
| Wilderness Woman |
Posted - October 21 2005 : 11:31:33 PM
Rose, I am really sorry we missed each other. I didn't know you were going to be there. Were you up top with the British or down below with the French?
You absolutely must get over to the Heinz Center to see that exhibit! It is amazing. The four of us who went (our group included a Provincial soldier, two campfollowers and a Savage!) had fun, especially, because we were wearing the clothing of the period represented in the displays. There weren't a lot of people there, but we did get some interested looks, a request for a photo, and the staff loved us!
I was also quite impressed with the little museum there at the fort. I must admit that as I stood there gazing at the two pistols that were given to George Washington by his good friend Lafayette, I actually choked up. |
| blueotter |
Posted - October 19 2005 : 11:31:55 PM
WW! I was also at Fort Ligonier! Wish I knew you were going to be there so I could have met you! I saw Seamus, but he was always busy with his troops, so didn't want to disturb him.
Thanks for reminding me about the exhibit at the Heinz History Center. I live in Pittsburgh, but have never seen it (I'd better get there soon — make sure my other reenactor friends in the city go with me!!)
Glad you are really getting into reenacting! It's a wonderful hobby, and there are a lot of great people in it. I must admit that my life has to fit around reenacting, like not taking a job that makes me work weekends! I'm taking classes right now to upgrade my graphics skills, but also working part time at Jo-Ann fabrics. They know I do reenacting, and have let me have off event weekends (as long as I ask well in advance for them).
Welcome to Time Travel!
Rose |
| CT•Ranger |
Posted - October 18 2005 : 11:42:32 PM
quote:
Originally posted by Emily
Congratulations, WW! Grrr, though. I've always wanted to get in to re-enacting, but, I am only 17 so juggling high school, a few college classes here and there, and a job, plus not having any experience in any of it , gives me a pretty slim chance of ever getting into it at all. Sad. Anyway all we have around here are Civil War re-enactments. I am sick of hearing about those things. Not the time period I'm interested in. I know, beggars can't be choosers, but, man, the whole thing just stinks. I would almost kill to just get to have any involvement in a 18th century re-enactment. Sheesh.
I started trekking and then reenacting when I was 17, in high school, and continued through the first couple years of college while I was taking a full load of classes and working part time. I just decided this was what I wanted to do, and did it. My dad even got involved because of me, and he still does it on his own. I started trekking because there weren't many 18th century reenactments in the part of California where I grew up, and I was an avid backpacker already, so my dad and I just went up into the mountains for backpacking trips using only 18th century clothing, food, and gear. Then we started meeting more trekkers and reenactors around the state at roundezvous and started going to reenactments. I know you could do it, anyone can. Why not give it a try? And if you're in Kentucky, as your profile says, I kow there are many 18th century reenactors and trekkers in that part of the woods. They're just not as noticeable as all those noisy Silly War reenactors. Over at Frontierfolk, most of the good people there are trekkers and reenactors in the Kentucky, Tennessee, Ohio, Indiana, West Virginia, Pennsylvania area. The site administrator is from Kentucky as are several other regular posters. Check it out:
FrontierFolk
Also, there's the Locust Grove 18th century Market Fair coming up Oct. 29-30, in Louisville.
Historic Locust Grove |
| caitlin |
Posted - October 18 2005 : 9:20:50 PM
Congratulations WW!
I re-enact in a differnt era, (1800) but can appreciate all the excitment that you are feeling! I wish you all the best! It is a wonderful way to experience history. Good luck! 
http://www.mojavemuleskinners.com
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| Emily |
Posted - October 18 2005 : 8:16:52 PM
Congratulations, WW! Grrr, though. I've always wanted to get in to re-enacting, but, I am only 17 so juggling high school, a few college classes here and there, and a job, plus not having any experience in any of it , gives me a pretty slim chance of ever getting into it at all. Sad. Anyway all we have around here are Civil War re-enactments. I am sick of hearing about those things. Not the time period I'm interested in. I know, beggars can't be choosers, but, man, the whole thing just stinks. I would almost kill to just get to have any involvement in a 18th century re-enactment. Sheesh. |
| richfed |
Posted - October 18 2005 : 07:24:22 AM
That is great, WW ... inspiring, actually! Makes me feel kind of foolish having moped about for so long ...  |
| Wilderness Woman |
Posted - October 17 2005 : 5:34:19 PM
Thank you, Captain, for the warm welcome and for your kind words also.
At long last, my "imaginings" are....... fulfilled. |
| Seamus |
Posted - October 17 2005 : 5:26:04 PM
Thank you for your kind words, WW.
There is no doubt in my mind, or in anyone elses's, that you will be a fine member, and one who will contribute to what we do, Joyce. As I told you, Kay (our Chief Distaff) is very happy to have another talented seamstress aboard, too. You have done quite well in your short journey into the 18th century, and you will only get more comfortable with it...and us...as you continue your journey.
Fort Ligonier is a very good place to start, as you have seen....lots going on in and out of the fort. The troops we portray and emulate built it and Col. James Burd commanded it for awhile. He was in command on October 12, 1758 when it was attacked by the French and their Indian allies, and were defeated. That action was the prelude to the enemy destroying Ft. Duquesne and heading back to New France, leaving the forks of the Ohio in sole possession of his Majesty's forces, with the subsequent building of Ft. Pitt.
We are happy to have you as an applicant member, and I have no doubt that you will be accepted as a full member at the next unit meeting.
Welcome aboard, Lass!!
Capt. S. |
| Kaylynn44 |
Posted - October 17 2005 : 5:15:53 PM
Congratulations Joyce!!!!!  It is great that you are doing something that you really love doing.
Love,
Kay |
| Gadget Girl |
Posted - October 17 2005 : 5:13:26 PM
That is VERY cool, Joyce. I envy your proximity to the region and yes, Madam, you are in FINE company! Way to Go!!!!!
GG |
| Wilderness Woman |
Posted - October 17 2005 : 5:07:24 PM
Well, many months have passed since I opened this thread with my first post. Many things have happened in my life during that time. I have had to make some very sad announcements and have had to deal with much stress, sadness and grief. But now, I very pleased to make a most happy announcement! I am, now, officially...... a Re-enactor! Huzzah!
I have presented my application for membership in The 3rd Battalion Pennsylvania (The Augusta Regiment), Burd's Company. If this name sounds familiar to anyone, it should. This is the very Regiment that is proud to have as its Captain our own Mike Slease (aka Seamus MacWilliam)! www.homestead.com/augustaregt/
This weekend past, I attended my first full-weekend event with the Regiment, as an applicant, at Fort Ligonier. I stayed in the recreated Junior Officer's cabin with them (yes, ladies and gents all in one cabin!), ate meals with them, laughed and chatted with them, sampled the Port with the good Captain , and survived wearing stays for 15 hours each day  ! It was wonderful and I am more than ever in love with this whole business.
It was also my extreme pleasure to finally meet Sjt. Malcolm MacWilliam, although very briefly as he was involved with soldiering much of the time.
I am told that for my first full event, Ligonier Days is a good one. I found it to be a well-run event with lots going on, both inside the fort and out in the streets of the little town. (They have just about the largest arts and crafts fair I have ever seen!)
Several of us also took advantage of the close proximity to Pittsburgh and traveled to see the "Clash of the Empires" display at the Heinz History Center. It is an absolutely breathtaking display of artifacts, paintings, and the history of the French and Indian War, and it was very difficult to tear ourselves away. www.pghhistory.org/Heinz_Empires.asp
I am so very grateful to Capt. Slease (Seamus) for giving me this opportunity to fulfill a dream. I haven't been this happy in many months. Thank you, Captain! |
| CT•Ranger |
Posted - September 06 2004 : 11:03:52 PM
The Jan Mabee house is just west of Schenectady, and is the oldest in the Mohawk Valley, built about 1670-80. Also on the farm is the Nilson Barn, a restored Dutch barn originally built around the 1760s.
http://www.schist.org/mabee.htm
http://www.schist.org/nilsen.htm
The Mabee Farm also has a replica bateau which is often manned by members of the 2nd Albany County Militia and of Schuyler's Company of New York Provincials.
http://www.secondalbany.org/albany_bateau.html
I have not been to the Herkimer Home, Oriskany or Newtown yet, although I've passed by all three sites several times on my travels.
I've been out of action for awhile as far as reenacting goes, with college and a couple moves to different states, but now that that's all done with I'm hoping to get back in the game soon. Especially now that I'm in NY, surrounded by so many great sites and reenactments. And the best part is that my wife is excited to begin reenacting as well. |
| Wilderness Woman |
Posted - September 06 2004 : 09:01:25 AM
Hi CT-R,
I am not familiar with the Mabee Farm. I will have to find out more about that. Thanks!
There is also Fort Klock at St. Johnsville, that has a couple of small events each summer. Usually the Tryon County Militia appears there, and sometimes there are some British and Native groups.
Have you made it to the Herkimer Home and the Oriskany Battlefield yet? Did you come to Newtown? |
| CT•Ranger |
Posted - September 05 2004 : 10:53:55 PM
Also there's a couple small events at Fort Johnson (William Johnson's house during the F&I war) in Amsterdam and the Mabee Farm (one of the oldest Dutch houses in NY) in Rotterdam Junction. Both in the Mohawk Valley about two hours from the Binghamton area. I attended both these events this summer as a "civilian." |
| Fitz Williams |
Posted - September 05 2004 : 8:25:09 PM
quote:
cots are de rigueur
You should try a rope bed. I made on last fall, and it's the best thing I have ever slept on. Materials are cheap (2x4's and rope) and it's completely PC! Only thing, it can be a little bulky to transport, but I have carried it to Fort Toulouse in my Jeep Tsalagi. |
| Kurt |
Posted - September 05 2004 : 8:02:43 PM
Ah yes, tenting tonight at the old camp grounds!
If you don't mind tents, it's a cheap weekend. The wedge tents aren't THAT expensive and cots are de rigueur and at least one of your friends would be glad to find a spot on the company street to pitch it.
There has to be a place to put the cars so there's usually "modern" camping, too. |
| Wilderness Woman |
Posted - September 05 2004 : 5:37:01 PM
[WW runs, dodging musket balls and tripping over her petticoats, to the nearest tree to hide behind.]
Uncle! Uncle!! 
You both have given me much food for thought. Yes, I know that old saying: "Where there's a will, there's a way." Well, I definitely have the will, so there must be a way. I just have to find it.
Actually, Kurt, I do hope to make it up to the Johnson Hall Market Fair next spring. Reading what you and Seamus had to say last spring made it sound very interesting, and it is within my "two-hour drive frame." (Well, maybe a little longer, but not too much.) But you see... I don't want to do just a one day thing. I want to be able to hang around after the public leaves and experience all of the things I described above. Perhaps I will see if I can save my pennies and stay in a motel. I will have to work on that!
Thanks for all of the encouragement.
|
| Fitz Williams |
Posted - September 05 2004 : 4:11:35 PM
1. You don't need any equipment. You can go for the day only.
2. My wife has no interest either. And our unit would not object to anyone who wanted to recreate the 18th Century. Besides, you don't need to be in a unit. Many of the events I attend, I am not part of a unit. But units always need help.
3. Many of the better known vendors sew with a machine. Some even say that is the best way to recreate the small, even stitches of the 18th century seamstress.
4. "Skills? We ain't got no skills! We don't need no skills. I don't have to show you any stinkin' skills!" Love that movie!!! But fact is that you can check the block called "Program Interpreter", because that is what you are. You are an 18th Century woman, and quite well enough informed to answer any questions from the public. Women are usually under represented and most sites I know would be glad to have you.
5. I bet the family does things without you. And my Jeep is 18 years old.
So you see, I have an answer for everything. So quit thinking up reasons why you can't and "just do it". |
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