COLONIAL VILLAGE
Metal Work and Gunsmithing
Colonial gunsmiths were a valuable part of the community in early America. Come view rifles and muskets in various stages of completion as well as period tools to build and repair them.
Heritage Grains from the Colonial Period
Washington State University is helping to bring back colonial period heritage grains using seed lines that date back to 1770. These grains are currently growing on the grounds of the Festival. Professors Steve Lyons and Richard Scheuerman speak about the details of this effort by WSU to return heritage grains to prominence in the United States.
Activities for Teens and Children
Local educators provide a great opportunity for children to learn about the colonial era in our Boston Children’s Village. All this, combined with a large interactive play area, including period games and clothes and Betsy Ross’s “house”, provide education and entertainment to kids with their parental supervisors.
Social Etiquette and Colonial Dancing
Social dancing was a vital part of life in the colonial era. Proficiency in dance was a necessary part of what it meant to be a "Gentleman" or a “Lady." Come learn how to dance and socialize like a proper Colonist.
Army of the Columbia Fife and Drum Corps
Based in the Northwest, the Army of the Columbia Fife and Drum Corps is a premier award-winning organization that portrays soldiers who had very important roles during the Revolutionary War.
Topography and Survey Techniques
Stephen Pierce showcases period survey and navigation equipment, and methods. Here you will see original and replica instruments as well as examples of charts that would have been used during the colonial era.
Religion and The Great Awakening
The quest to practice the religion of Christianity in freedom was the motivation that drove our forefathers to flee to the new world. Learn more from The Colonial Parson and Patriot Militia Chaplain, Wylin Tjoelker.
Sons and Daughters of the American Revolution
The Sons of the American Revolution is a patriotic, historical, and educational Society, dedicated to assisting members, schools, teachers and the general public in their efforts to sustain and preserve our history and constitutional principles. Visit with members and hear talks about colonial frontier life, the history and use of the flag. The Daughters of the American Revolution offer a view from the Distaff side with discussions on household life of the 1700’s, courtship and weddings, clothing, tea and genealogy. The DAR focuses on education, historic preservation and patriotism.
WAR REENACTMENTS
British Redcoats face the Colonial Militia, narrated by Historian Jeff Dacus
It's the spring of 1775, and tensions between Great Britain and the American colonies have reached a breaking point. British troops arrive in Lexington to confiscate weapons and ammunition and capture known patriot leaders, Samuel Adams and John Hancock. Roughly 70 nervous but armed militia wait on Lexington Green as the British column emerges out of the fog. Come to the Battlefield daily to see how this event unfolds in a confrontation that would launch a new nation.
After Lexington, the British continue on to Concord about 20 miles west, destroying cannons, ammunition and provisions. Word of the skirmish at Lexington travels quickly across the countryside, fueling tensions even further. In response, local militia gathers to meet the redcoats. This time, the Americans are ready. Witness this important moment in history and hear the "shot heard 'round the world.”
CONTINENTAL
MILITIA
BRITISH
REGULARS
N.W. COLONIAL REENACTORS ASSOC.
Commander Charles Saint will lead the band of Rebels as they prepare to face the British Regulars as their enemy. In addition to the battle reenactments and musket firing demonstrations, expect to visit with them about the life in the 18th Century and during the War for Independence.
The unit represents the Regiments of Foot, sent in 1774 “to bring order to the chaotic situation in Boston”, maintain law and order and keep the King’s Peace. Watch as they perform the Manual of Arms 1764, engage in popular pastimes, and receive pay and rations. Come discuss colonial politics and see history from the British perspective.
Based in the Pacific Northwest, this is a family-friendly group of 18th century history buffs, focused on the outdoors and flintlock black-powder marksmanship. There will be demos at various camp tents. Music and dancing specific to the colonial era will be featured by this group on the Festival Commons and is open to all ages.
