Living History Program: Recruiting for the War of 1812
Step back in time to Newport in 1813 as the young nation recruits for the War of 1812. The Newport History Society will host a 19th century living history program on Saturday July 31, 2010 from 11am to 1pm at the 1739 Colony House on Washington Square.
Visitors will meet a group of first person historic interpreters portraying an 1813 recruiting station for the War of 1812 against Britain. A 19th century recruiting officer will ask the visitors-turned-naval-recruits a series of historically based questions to learn if they would make good sailors. An officer or surgeon’s mate will “examine” the recruits. When they pass muster, they will sign shipping papers, receive a “cash bounty” (facsimile period money) and told where and when to report for duty.
“Many living history events do not actively engage the public,” explains Matthew Brenckle who portray a recruiting officer. “This program aims to change that by encouraging visitors to take a central role.”
Admission costs $1 per person, $5 maximum for families and is free for Newport Historical Society members.
