Time-travel. A staple of science fiction and fantasy. The hypothetical concept of taking a journey to the past and witnessing major or personal events in history has captivated people's imaginations for centuries. While we cannot jump backward through time physically, we can recreate those iconic moments in history books, in movies, and the most immersive way: historical reenactments.
Recently, members from the COS Maryland team traveled to Earleville to take part in a battle, forging new paths in history! Not a real battle, of course, but a reenactment of a battle that took place during the Revolutionary War.
Stephen Patten, former state director who now works with Convention of States National, was on the scene with his family:
"The attention to detail in dress and gear was remarkable. While everyone awaits the excitement of a battle reenactment, my family thoroughly enjoyed wandering among the Patriot and British encampments."
From soldier to officer to physician to the young lads and ladies that were also encamped, the participants were extremely knowledgeable. What was so endearing was how each person was eager to share interesting facts about the period and their role and responsibilities.
These ranged from why and how much wood was needed each day a company was encamped, to the drills that needed to be practiced by artillerymen versus infantry, to how often clothes were washed and what games were played. The details on the uniforms were remarkable. While the British ranks could be easily distinguished, the Patriots’ rank identifiers were much more nuanced. All this attention to detail made the event feel very real.
A highlight for Steve's eight-year-old son was participating in a musket loading and firing drill.
"Though no actual muskets were used by the very interested young visitors, the importance of working together (and quickly) under very stressful and chaotic circumstances made a lasting impression."
Steve wasn't the only Article V supporter present that day. Coley Brown, a district captain from the Eastern Shore, also attended, and set up a COS booth near the camp.
Coley was impressed by several young reenactors who visited the booth more than once to talk about the Constitution.
"I was excited to find that they had a working knowledge of the Constitution. The weekend went well and was a success."
Don't forget to watch for the COSA Maryland monthly newsletter with our events calendar, where you can choose events and join the movement!
Overall, the reenactment was an enjoyable and educational experience for all involved, and COS Maryland looks forward to attending other events to learn and teach the values of history and self-governance.
Let us not let history repeat itself. Sign the Convention of States petition and get involved in your state! Who knows. Maybe one day, there will be historical reenactments of the COS team!
