The Militia Muster of Old Welsh Run

Description

Celebrate America's Birthday weekend in Revolutionary style!

This program will allow visitors to experience a rural militia muster and marvel at the military prowess of the 18th Century soldier, the life of civilians following the army, and aspects of a rural Pennsylvania community. Centered around the Tavern at the CI, join the fun by partaking in drill, crafts and other activities. In addition to scheduled programs and vignettes, programming will be ongoing through the day such as cooking, local commerce, itinerant trades, signing oaths of allegiance and more.

 

"It is July 1777, after the Continental Army's victories at Trenton and Princeton over the 10 Crucial Days, the armies have been fairly silent. British General Howe has remained in New York, but there are rumors that his army may soon depart and make a play at Philadelphia. The citizens of Welsh Run gather for their July muster of the local militia company. Though it is a day of community and trade, the thoughts of being called upon in defense of Pennsylvania are on the minds of many. "

10 a.m. Election of an Officer - Officers of the militia were elected by the troops they led. Join the company as they choose their officer for the coming campaign.

10:15 a.m.: Muster, Inspection, Drill and Firing Demonstration - The troops are inspected to verify that they have all their equipment and are ready for a day of duty. They will then perform maneuvers as a company, and end with a firing demonstration.

11 a.m.: A Pound of Good Meat - Soldiers will be issued rations by the Quartermaster and then will set to the task of making some edible. You may cook in your modern kitchen, or may have even dabbled in cooking over a fire, but have you ever experienced spartan cooking of an 18th century soldier? 

1 p.m.: Training the New Recruits - The public is invited to join the veterans of Welsh Run to try their hand at military life through drill and maneuvers. Learn for yourself what is required of a soldier of the time and see if you can make it on the coming campaign.

2 p.m.: A reading of the Declaration of Independence - In celebration of the colonies declaring their independence one year prior on July 2, 1776, we will read the Declaration that was adopted on July 4. Afterwards, the swivel gun will be fired in celebration.

3 p.m.: A Demonstration by the Veterans of the Last Campaign - Now that you've tried your hand at the life of a soldier, see how experienced soldiers conduct themselves. This will include a firing demonstration.

4 p.m.: Distractions from Duty - See what was done when not at work. Games large and small were played by civilians and soldiers alike for leisure, to distract, and gamble. What will today's distractions bring?

4:45 p.m.: The March to Philadelphia - The Militia has been called up! They depart at once in defense of Pennsylvania. Bid them farewell as they depart.