History (class) Comes to Life!

Hey, there’s George Washington!

He was spotted in Fort Ticonderoga in early September for the Annual Revolutionary War Encampment (Sept. 6-7).  And he’s been known to hang around other historic sites around New York State like the Saratoga, New Windsor and even lower Manhattan.

If the military life of America’s first president intrigues you, you’re welcome to don your own revolutionary apparel and help him fight for independence!  (Or against him, if you’d prefer!)

Fun takes historical proportions in New York State, especially when it comes to significant events like the Revolutionary and Civil Wars. The state’s historical sites literally come to life with visitors from around the world gathering and playing all the parts in a variety of reenactments.  You’ll find British, German, Continental and Native American forces in action and at rest, in films, rare photos, artifacts, and more. From the sleeping tents to the muskets to the campfire grub, the details are spot on.  The sounds of pipes, drums, warning calls and history changing speeches, will carry you straight back to the blazing days of our nation’s formation.

Head to Fort Edward as reenactors re-create life in a 1758 French & Indian War camp on Rogers Island (Sept. 21-21). Hear the musket fire as work parties are attacked beyond the fort and watch as the British and Provincial soldiers, along with their Native American allies, hurry to their defense.  Tour the Old Fort House Museum for a study of the period’s furnishings and community life.

If the Civil War interests you, be sure to take an evening candle lit tour of Canandaigua’s Granger Homestead from Sept. 26-27.  You’ll travel straight back to September 1864, with the Civil War raging on, but victory within reach for the Northerners. Re enactors of all ages fill the gorgeous grounds with food, furnishings, artillery and more, all dedicated to providing a hands-on glimpse of Civil War era life.  

Reenactments and Encampments take place throughout the year and across the state. If you’re visiting rather than participating, you’ll find the “battlefields” and “barracks” are within a short drive of present day accommodations!