Event Descriptions, 1999

L'Armée de Rochambeau

Saturday, May 8, 1999

• Régiment de Saintonge: 1780 French encampment, drill and music
• Talk: Dr. Robert Selig: The Comte de Rochambeau and the Expedition Particulière, 1780-83

In 1780, Rochambeau landed in Newport with five French regiments (including the Saintonge) to provide support to General Washington and the colonists in their fight for independence from Britain. In 1781, they marched south to Virginia where they joined with Washington's forces to defeat Cornwallis at Yorktown. Join us for a talk by noted historian Dr. Robert Selig on Rochambeau's expedition and on the research and archaeology currently underway at some of the sites where the French camped in New England on their way south to Yorktown. Throughout the day, the Régiment de Saintonge will maintain a camp at the Battle Road Visitor Center and demonstrate the drill and music of Rochambeau's army.

New England Militia Muster

Saturday, August 7, 1999

Hartwell Tavern and the surrounding area is the setting for a Muster Day in the period leading up to the Revolution. Growing tension in the Port of Boston strains the interaction between British soldiers on patrol in the area and militia units. Militia units have come together to drill and elect their officers. The tavernkeepers go about their tasks of preparing meals and serving guests. Other members of the community have come to the tavern to share an afternoon of socializing and games and to discuss the increasingly important political issues of the day. You may also see the magistrate on his rounds or the local minister come by to speak to the militia.

1999 Northern Department Garrison Weekend

June 19-20, 1999 in Saratoga National Historical Park

The Northern Department of the Continental Line will host its 1999 Garrison Weekend at the Saratoga National Historical Park in Stillwater, NY.

"Rebellion which a twelve-month ago was a contemptible pygmy, is now in appearance a giant." So spoke a contemporary after the Battles of Saratoga. Burgoyne's surrender on October 17, 1777, was one of those signal events that shape the destiny of nations.

The event will include:

• The annual drill competition for the Strawbery Banke Bowl
• A march into camp on Saturday with a team of oxen and a cart
• A twilight tour of the battlefield
• Campfollower activities

George Washington: Citizen Soldier

October 16-17, 1999

George Washington: Citizen Soldier is part of a year long celebration of the 200th Anniversary of George Washington's Passing. The event will include camps depicting highlights of George Washington's career as Commander-in-Chief, including:

1775 - Early War: Cambridge Camp
1778 - Middle War: Monmouth Camp
1781 - Late War: Yorktown Camp
French Camp

Mount Vernon Calendar, October
Mount Vernon homepage