RW250.org - 3. SOLDIERS & CAMP FOLLOWERS

3. SOLDIERS & CAMP FOLLOWERS

THE RECRUITING OFFICER

Historical performer, Michael J. Grillo, portrays members of the Westchester County Community who served in the American War for Independence. This program features every major campaign of the battle for New York. Attendees will learn about the life of the common soldier, what clothing was worn, hygiene, foodstuffs, where soldiers were quartered, which nations were involved and soldiers’ ethnicities. Additionally, this program features the various roles of women, and asks the question, “Would you be a Loyalist or Patriot?” Characters portrayed are Captain Charles Turnbull, Captain Theodosius Fowler and Pierre Van Cortlandt.

Audience: Students and adults Duration: 1 hour including Q&A

Presenter: Michael J. Grillo Fee: $500 Contact: rwffuz94@aol.com

Site Requirements: Indoor or outdoor space with seating or standing area for audience.

LIFE AS A HUDSON VALLEY SOLDIER

History teachers Rob Buccheri and Keith Reilly arrive authentically dressed as Continental Army soldiers who fought during the Revolutionary War in the Hudson Valley. Learn about the arms and equipment used in Washington’s Army, how soldiers lived in the camp, and the medical procedures of the 18th century. After a short multimedia presentation, participants dress in soldier’s uniforms, hold equipment, and learn exercises from the “Manual of Arms.”

Audience: Ages 8-15 Duration: 1 hour

Presenters: Robert Buccheri & Keith Reilly

Fee: $500 Contact: rbuccheri1776@gmail.com

Site Requirements: Indoor or outdoor space with seating or standing area for audience.

A REVOLUTION OF HER OWN!™

This one-woman show portrays Deborah Sampson; first woman to fight and be honorably discharged from the American Military. An indentured servant by age five, Deborah grew up in a world where women were second-class subjects. In the final years of the American War for Independence, this rebel bound her chest, tied back her hair, and enlisted in the Continental Army as “Robert Shurtlieff.” A West Point-trained marksman, Deborah’s combat campaign spanned the Hudson River Valley. Learn more in this immersive, living history experience.

Audience: Ages 6+

Duration: 1 hour (+25 minute Q&A)

Presenter: Judith Kalaora Fee: $775 performance

Additional costs: $240 travel expense, plus one night accommodation, non-smoking room with a private bed and bath (hotel or homestay). Hotel approx. $175/night.

Contact: judith@historyatplay.com

Site Requirements: Indoor or outdoor space with seating or standing room for audience.

Judith Kalaora as Continental soldier Deborah Sampson.

THE MANY FACES OF THE CONTINENTAL ARMY

The Continental Army recruited soldiers who were native-born, immigrants of almost every nationality, and free and enslaved African-Americans. This program will present the soldier’s life from the perspectives of the 1st Rhode Island Regiment, also known as the “Black regiment,” and the 5th New York Regiment who fought in the local area. The battles of Pine’s Bridge, in present day Yorktown, Westchester County, and Fort Mont-gomery, on the Hudson River in Orange County, will be highlighted. All uniforms and equipment are authen-tic reproductions.

Audience: Ages 12+ Duration: 1 hour

Presenters: Duane Jackson & Joe Ryan

Fee: $800

Contact: livinghistory@optonline.net

Availability: Flexible

Site Requirements: Open space indoor or out, and seating or standing room for audience.

Joe Ryan and Duane Jackson engage with students.

QUESTIONS & CURIOSITIES OF THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION

Did you ever look at a picture of an American Revolutionary War battle and wonder why they fought in lines and across open fields? Do you understand the mathematics and calculations of death on an 18th century battlefield? These curious questions and more are answered by a soldier in uniform from General George Washington’s army for all to enjoy. See the weapons used in the Revolutionary War and find out why the troops were “lousy.” Learn what “a flash in the pan” was, and other daily duties of a common soldier’s life including: hygiene, field medicine, food, etc. Be sure to bring a sense of humor!

Audience: Ages 12+ Duration: 1 hour

Presenter: Joe Ryan Fee: $500

Contact: livinghistory@optonline.net Availability: Flexible

Site Requirements: Indoor or outdoor space with seating or standing area for audience.

CAMP LIFE IN THE REVOLUTIONARY WAR

Soldiers and civilians with a wide range of skills were needed as Washington’s Army faced the British Army during nearly 8 years of conflict. Experience the tasks and drills required of soldiers and others who accompanied the army, including women, medics and drummer boys. This multi-faceted program can include tents, campfires, children’s games, cooking and more depend-ing on the size of your event and the number of reenactors hired.

Audience: Ages 9+ Duration: Minimum 3 hours

Presenters: Joe Ryan and experienced BOCES certified re-enactors

Fee range: $600-$1500, based on the number of re-enactors and duration of event.

Contact: livinghistory@optonline.net

Site Requirements: Adequate outdoor space. Safety guidelines followed.

LIVING HISTORY CO.

Living History Co. LLC creates experiences that deepen understanding and appreciation of the full breadth and depth of the American journey. Presentations range from battle re-enactments to music and cooking demonstrations that reflect American life from the colonial era through the American Revolution. Living History Co, has done this work for schools, heritage tourism sites, historical societies, film and television productions. We represent interpreters that are versed in herbal healing, cooking and camp chores, individual soldiers and groups representing troops such as the Rhode Island Regiment. Talent can be customized to your program and needs.

Audience: All ages Duration: Flexible

Presenters: Steve Thomas and company Fee: Dependent on number of individuals needed, as well as travel and overnight requirements.

Contact: Kevin Chapman kclivhistoryco@gmail.com‭

Site Requirements: Indoor or outdoor space

Members of Living History Co. at Philipse Manor Hall State Historic Site.

CAMP FOLLOWERS OF THE CONTINENTAL ARMY

Family members and craftspeople that followed the troops are often among the unsung and unrecognized heroes of wartime. With demonstrations, period props and dress, Maria Grillo introduces you to the faces of Revolutionary War camp followers who brought a sense of “home” to the battlefield. Learn the work of the sutler, seamstress, laundress, cook, and nurse. The audience may be asked to help!

Audience: All Ages Duration: 1 hour including Q+A

Presenter: Maria Grillo Fee: $500

Contact: scholargal@hotmail.com Availability: Flexible

Site Requirements: Indoor or outdoor space with seating or standing area for audience.