UTR 2005 Notes and Comments



Dear Liste, Justed wanted to send out a big thank you to all invovled in making Under the Redcoat 2005 one of the most memorable reenacting experiences I have ever been involve in. Particularly, my gratitude goes out to the crews of the Somerset, Richmond, Falcon, Virginia State Navy, and all the other naval reenactors that came together to present the largest naval presence ever for this event. From Captain Cregg Hadley down the the able seamen, all were very helpful, understanding, and willing to help those of us in the Virginia State navy adjust and actually enjoy portraying sailors of the Royal Navy, and we will never forget your kindness for allowing us to fall in with you.

Beginning Saturday morning at 10 a.m., we formed up at the Fifes and Drums building to begin our march into town as escort to the pay chest. I believe there were at least 27 sailors and marines under arms (10 pikemen, 7 muskets with fixed bayonets, 2 muskets around the cart, plus 4 officers, 1 boson, and 3 boson's mates) escorting the pay chest into town. I hope some folks took pictures that they can share with the list because I would love to see them, it had to have been quite a site. Once the pay chest was secured in camp, no time was wasted in the the crew forming up into three watches, each patroling the streets of town in watches for the usual collection of deserters, spys, arms smugglers, etc. If memory serves, our foc'sle watch, comprised of bosun's mate Pierce, and able seamen Carter, Helmer, Goose, Shaugnessy, Adams, Friar, Andrew, and Littles, patroled almost constantly until about 1 p.m., when we returned to camp for a bite to eat, then it was back out to patrol again until the end of the day. Sunday was much of the same, until a nasty little brawl erupted on Duke of Gloucester street between one of our press gangs and men of the infantry. The brawl was quickly broken up by more level headed officers of each service, and terms were negotiated to settle the dispute by a tug of war. Alas, the infantry took 2 out of 3 matches from us. Then it was back on patrol for the remainder of the day. Very tireing, but also very enjoyable.

What I would like to know from those of you on the liste who participated as infantry is, what was the overall impression of the naval presence this weekend in Williamsburg? From our prospective it seemed that the general public was very impressed with our presence, and asked many very intelligent questions and seemed to be genuinly impressed that we were providing the Royal Navy presence for the weekend. We heard a sprinkling of comments, most all of them favorable, come from various sources throughout the weekend, but I would like to hear from some more folks who actually participated as infantry (or any other impression) as to their thoughts on the larger navel presence. Did it add to authenticity of the weekend? Did it make your experience better? Any negative comments??

Once agian, thanks so much to Captain Hadley, Lt.s Condrick and Clark, and Midshipman Duffy, as well as Bosun Frank "Ross", Bosun's mate Pierce, and everyone else in the navy camp for your fellowship and welcoming attitude. Those of us down here in the Virginia State Navy appreciate it very much.

Rob Friar

Virginia State Navy, 1776-1783

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Mr. Friar,

It is with great pleasure that I write a few words thanking the Navy for their "huge" presence at UTR. As Co. Sjt. Major of the 42nd Grenadier Co., I believe that the Navy presence is very important and the job those men do is exceptional. We Highlanders always enjoy observing all the fine work and portrayals they provide; the more the better! My special regards to my kinsman, Lieut. Condrick.

Huzzahs to the Royal Navy!

Malcolm MacWm., 42nd Grens, Sjt. Major

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Mr. Friar,

As friendly competitor's from the irregular infantry side of the house, I'd offer the following observations on the Navy at UTR 2005. The Navy pikeman was an impressive addition. The large number of Navy personnel was also welcome, although we were leery as to how much intrusion their presence would bring on our operations. Last year our unit provided both opposition and Loyalist impressions.

This year as the North Carolina Volunteers we had something like 23 or more men under arms. This year the Loyalists were used to gather information and intelligence on the opposition, malcontents and persons/items of interest. Friday afternoon we had observed two members of the opposing force in the area of the Palace Green. The opposing force did not set up camp ununtil 7pm or later. On Saturday from 7am to 7:30 am there were six tents and one dining fly in the opposing force camp and the wagon had been moved into their campsite area, but no individuals moving about the camp. About 8am there was activity in the camp, three individuals noted in period dress and others in modern clothing. Three rather well fed Navy personnel, armed with cutlasses, cudgels and shackles appeared on the Palace Green. I don't know if this was the VA Navy contingent, but I'd call them the Return of the Stalkers. They walked around the opposing force camp and went up to the Palace. Within 5 minutes everyone had cleared out of the opposing force camp. As a field agent of the Crown, I reported what I had observed then went on about my rounds looking for more Whig activity. To show a different technique here is an example of Loyalist Militia operations on Saturday morning at UTR> At the Prentiss Store on Duke of Glouster Street, I observed a tent against the building, the Williamsburg employees in the store said it was not theirs and had observed no one staying in it. This was reported to 2 folks in the North Carolina Volunteers. Within the hour a Patrol of the North Carolina Volunteers had busted the arms, smuggling operation at the Prentiss Store. I was also arrested and taken in with the suspects to observe their behavior. Interestingly one of the three I had reported observing at the opposing force camp on the Palace Green was already in the Guardhose. I also observed the well fed Navy Cooks who had saundered across the Palace Green were in custody, disarmed and bound with rope. Hopefully, flogged as well. I would say that dispite having larger numbers this year, I saw and others in our unit as well mentioned this, the press gang was not as visible or persistent on the streets as last year. Certainly saw them in the camp and behind Chownings Tavern. I did observe the brawl, but left that to the regulars to settle the score with the Navy. I also observed the Navy on Sunday while I was on guard duty at the Duke of Glouster barricade apprehend two female suspects with an anti- Crown forces effigy in their possession. We had three regular infantry soldiers at the barricade asking us (militia) about our patrolling techniques. They went to assist the Navy in escorting the ladies to the guardhouse. Having Press gangs running around with cudgels and belaying pins and hauling everyone on the street to the guardhouse or ship is probably an accurate impression. It never went over well with locals here or in England. I'll be interested in seeing the tale of the tape from the UTR AARs.

Final Summary

  • Numbers and pikemen impressive.
  • Patrolling not.
  • Still loosing at the tug of war. (Who pulls your ship anchor up?)
  • Great job on the tavern songs.
  • Very Respectfully,

    Brett Osborn

    North Carolina Volunteers

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    Bret can you find out who it was from the NCV who planted the map on me on Sunday. I was so positive that it was Lt. Condrick, since it was his idea that I desert the navy. You have no idea how shocked I was when I saw it pulled out of my bag.

    cheers,

    Tom "spizzle" Tringale

    HMS Somerset

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    Dear Sirs,

    Needless to say, maybe one group of individuals may have not been recognized by the general populous (but they were praised by the officers in charge).....the lady cooks for the Officers Mess!!!! They worked many hours without rest from the early hours od the day until all was cleaned up, through the heat and the rain on Sunday to give a feast that will be extremely difficult for most gourmet chefs to provide. I was only a lonely musician playing music while the food was being brought out, BUT MY GOD! it was most difficult to concentrate on the music instead of the vitals that the officers were relishing. THE COOK DESERVE A VERY RESOUNDING HUZZAH!! I must also note that 2two British Naval officers need praise! They stayed and help do the dishes! Indeed a very gentlemanly attitude.

    Your Most Humble Servant,

    Brian Lewis

    Invited guest musician of the 4th Coy

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    Mr. Lewis,

    Your music was appreciated by this Scot Officer.

    Captain Campbell

    42d Grenadier C

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    And by this Scot Officer also. Most excellent. And my complements to the Officer who arranged such a wonderful addition to the meals.

    Bruce McNeal

    Maryland Loyalists

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    Agreed! HUZZAH! FOR THE LADIES OF THE OFFICERS MESS!!

    I can attest to the quality of the meal, as we navy fellows were allowed to feed from the leftovers. Outstanding!!!

    Rob Friar

    Va. State Navy

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    Not enough can be said in praise of the food, service, presentation, AND musick at the Officer's Mess.

    I will write a more complete AAR later (got to get ready for a long day at real work), but those meals were among the most pleasant experiences of my reenacting career. I'm awaiting a complete list of "goodies" so all who were not involved can see to what extent these ladies went to do a wonderful piece of living history.

    Brian, you added a lot with your fine music - and I never heard you repeat a tune! What a repertoire.

    I won't need to eat for a week!

    Jay

    Cm Gds

    4th Coy, Bde of Guards

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    Hi all!

    Just got back last weekend from the annual "Under the Redcoat" weekend at Colonial Williamsburg. Other than the typical hot weather and general good times playing British soldier in the Mecca of 18th century reenacting, we had an officer's mess both days that was FANTASTIC!!!

    Some of the ladies of one of the reenactment regiments, the 33d Regiment of Foot, are into historic foodways. They also do gardening of legacy vegetables and herbs and such. They had brought 40 Lbs of salleting and herbs from California for preparation of this meal - - for 20 men who had subscribed to take part. It was fantastic. My public school education leaves me lacking in sufficient superlatives to compliment all who had a hand in that meal - - but I thank them all for it!! There were other ladies from other units who also helped and a contingent of the Royal Navy also assisted. It was quite a show as well as one of the best meals I've ever experienced anywhere.

    Here's the menu for each day:

    Compiled by: Emily Cline, Holly Winchell, and Judy Polinsky

    Of the 33rd Regiment of Foot

    Saturday

    The gathering began with socialization around the Brown Dog Restorative Punch and Revere Bowl provided by Sabra Welch from the 5th Foot.

    First Course: Sea

  • Dressed Crabs
  • Planked Salmon and Herb Stuffed Croaker
  • Wilted Salad
  • Buttered Spring Peas
  • Rice
  • Second Course: Air

  • Chicken Dressed with Herbs
  • Duck with Orange Glaze
  • Cucumbers
  • Asparagus
  • Pickled Eggs
  • Third Course: Land

  • Beef with Forcemeat
  • Creamed Spinach
  • Spring Carrots
  • Pickled Watermelon Rind
  • Fourth Course:

  • Assorted Breads and Cheeses
  • Preserves
  • Stewed Pears
  • Fresh Fruits
  • Fifth Course: Sweets

  • Fruit Compote with Whipped Cream
  • Apple Bread
  • Blueberry Pudding
  • Carraway Cakes
  • Pound Cake
  • Macaroons
  • Brandied Cherries
  • Candied Lemon and Orange Peels
  • Sunday

    First Course

  • Cold Sorrel Soup with eggs
  • Second Course

  • Cold Sliced Chicken
  • Vinegared Cucumbers with Burnet
  • Sautéed Summer Squash
  • Third Course

  • Roasted Pork with Spiced Apple Rings
  • Stewed Crab
  • Rice
  • Apple and Onion Pie
  • Carrot Pudding
  • Fourth Course

  • Hashed Beef
  • Fresh Salad Dressed with Lovage and Raisin Dressing
  • Rice Pudding with Cherries
  • Fifth Course:

  • Minted Lamb
  • Minted Peas
  • Sauted Fennel
  • Sixth Course

  • Assorted Breads and Cheeses
  • Preserves
  • Fresh Apple slices
  • Mascerated Strawberries
  • Seventh Course: Sweets

  • Raspberry Fool
  • Apple Bread
  • Cakes
  • Macaroons
  • Blueberry Bread Pudding withRaspberry Glaze
  • Fruit Compote
  • Brandied Peaches
  • Cherries in Rum
  • Candied Orange and Lemon Peels
  • I have to say that the Sauted Fennel was about my least favorite - a bit harsh. The macaroons were divine and everything else that I tried was good (which was all but the cucumber items since I'm allergic to them). The sorrel soup was excellent as were the crab and beef items. All the meats were great. The macerated strawberries masticated extremely well! The brandied cherries had been set up for FIVE YEARS - and they bit back!! Every time anyone took a bite of one you heard a choked: "WOW!" or massive intake of breath followed by a deep-throated "Whoah!" The mere list doesn't begin to do justice to the mix of exotic flavours that were created with the legacy herbs and the magnificent presentation (with several ladies serving, and quiet musick from a wandering musician to add ambiance). It was fabulous. We had to eat in small servings just to do any justice to the variety of good food. The head chef of Chowning's Tavern came out to observe and to check out the cooking methods - - and was amazed at the variety and at how they could cook over an open fire (and, on Sunday, in the RAIN!!). For those of us who enjoy the study of 18th century foodstuffs, this was gastronomic Nirvana!!

    Hope this list gives some of you some ideas of what is neat to serve next time you're trying to think up some menus.

    Jay

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    Gads how did you ever go out and reenact after all that wonderful food. Those ladies sound like quiet a bunch of good chefs never mind cooks.

    Debbie in THC

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    It was NOT easy to do much of anything after the meal each day. But what a joy to partake of it!

    You can see why formal 18th century dinners lasted more than two hours on average.

    Jay

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    "Sunday was much of the same, until a nasty little brawl erupted on Duke of Gloucester street between one of our press gangs and men of the infantry. The brawl was quickly broken up by more level headed officers of each service, and terms were negotiated to settle the dispute by a tug of war."

    Gentle Readers,

    The Navy was impressive this year! So many sailors roaming the grounds. I did not personally get many photos on Saturday since there were so many tourists! Sunday, I was able to view and photograph the brawl. To say it was impressive is an understatement! It was amazing to watch a small conflict grow into a scene of chaos with soldiers joining the fray from all directions! The brawl may not have lasted long but it was a sight to see.

    So, here is caps off to the Royal Navy and the color they provided! I will notify the list when pictures are posted of UTR.

    Yr Mst. Ob't and Humble Distaff,

    Susan Gable

    42 RHR, Gren Coy

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    In re: the Army/Navy tug of war - - while the sailors certainly had an edge in that they spend their waking hours pulling at ropes for sails, anchors, etc, the Army had a decisive edge due to wet grass and the fact that deck shoes are smooth soled and the Army's had hobnails!!

    More later - working late tonight.

    Jay

    Cm Gds

    4th Coy, Bde of Guards

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    List,

    The "brawl" was intended to last much longer, unfortunately someone from the OpFor yelled a key phrase that was intended as a cue. This happened long before it should have and sent the Guard and the Officers in earlier than was planned.

    The scenario was to have the Royal Navy start mucking about with off duty Army lads, small Army lads, and then have larger ones come to the rescue. Instead members of the Op For came into the scene and initiated the scuffle.

    The Op For started fighting with some Navy men, then the Army tried to help the Navy, then the Navy and the Army started fighting each other, and to top things off in typical Highland charge the 42nd adds a contingent to the melee and everyone disappears in a cloud of tartan.

    The Sentries and Officers arrive to break up the brawl and to add to the realism many of the Army flee into the crowd to avoid punishment.

    The crowd of CW visitors enjoyed the fight very much judging from the comments I over heard. No one was injured that was watching or fighting, at least none that I was informed of.

    As there were far too many involved to thank individually I will offer my thanks to the participating members of the Royal Navy and to the Army for a job well done.

    Special thanks is due to Mr. Kondrick of the Royal Navy Sommerset and to Sjt Hurley of the Army Fifth of Foot with their Cabal of trouble makers who organized the event with very little time to get a large number of people to look like a riot without hurting themselves or spectators.

    Many people that complimented the fight mentioned they had seen it last year and that it was one of their favorite parts, second only to watching the Officers' meal.

    Your Most Humble and Obedient Servant

    Captain Michael Monahan

    Grenadier Company

    His Majesty's Fifth Regiment of Foot

    (In America)

    ==========

    Esteemed Liste:

    I'm posting some of our pictures of UTR 2005 in a file called UTR 2005 (MD Loyalists) in the photo section of the list. There are some pics of the Lady Cooks and a few others. More will be posted as I get a chance to clean them up, crop, etc.

    [please note the photos are no longer available at the Revlist]

    I too would like to commend the Lady Cooks. My wife worked both days and was dead tired by Sunday night. But she thoroughly enjoyed the entire experience. She's a bit new at this, but I think her time working with such a great group of women has really got her hooked! And she had nothing but wonderful things to say about the two young women (about the age of our daughter) who were in charge. She was amazed at their expertise, and even more amazed at their energy levels. I'm sure she'll be posting something about it herself in the next few days.

    It was a great event and I hope the photos reflect it.

    YMH&OS

    Tom Burke

    Maryland Loyalists

    ==========

    Greetings,

    UTR was awsome this year. It is hard to imagine how a great event can get better each year but it has. CW's goal was to increase the interaction with the public and I think that we succeeded greatly. Although it was the usual sweat bath, everyone I spoke to had a great time.

    According to the CW event coordinator Tim, UTR has become a favorite event for huge numbers of their guests. Many have commented that they schedule their vacation so they can be in CW for UTR. And we personally heard from more than one visitor from England that they specifically came to see the British occupation of Williamsburg. One of our members said that on Sunday, "I was taking the Shuttle bus back to the visitor's center (we were staying at the Woodlands). The bus had about 20 tourists on it and when I walked on and started to sit down, the whole bus said thanks for coming out this weekend. I thought this thanks is also meant for all of the re-enactors there." My complements to all.

    My highest complements to the ladies who worked the Officer's Mess. In a climate that was already boiling, to work around a huge cook fire was going above and beyond the call of duty. And the meal was beyond glorious. In fact I was informed that the head chef from Chowning's came out to see what was cooking and to taste & take notes. The Officer's mess is another one of the things the public seems to enjoy. Frankly I can't imagine why anyone would enjoy watching others eat, but I thoroughly enjoyed entertaining those who did.

    This year our kitchen was opposite the gate to the garden behind Chowning's Tavern. We had visitors by the bucket load. The guestimate we came up with was in excess of 1000 guests over the two days. While our location may have contributed to the numbers I give a lot of credit Miss Jennie having her spinning wheel and unit members actively seeking out the public.

    Although it has already been said, Huzzahs to the Navy for the excellent job they did in taking the game to the enemy. They were incredible and credit for a lot of the catches go to them.

    Huzzahs are also due the 55th for the pay parade. I happened to be on duty as the Camp Major's ADC and had a ringside seat. The list of additions to and subtractions from pay and the accompaning stories were wonderful. I truly wish I had the whole thing on film. It sounded like a lot of research went into each soldier's story. Fantastic.

    And last but not least, thanks to Radford & Judy Polinsky. I can't begin to imagine how much work goes into this event but their extensive planing was evident. Thank you both for creating a first class event that is without equal.

    Yr Hmbl & Obdnt Srvnt,

    Bruce McNeal

    Maryland Loyalists

    "At the same time that I acted with the greatest zeal against my rebellious countrymen, I never forgot that I was an American."

    - Major Walter Dulany, Md Loyalists

    ==========

    > > What I would like to know from those of you on the liste who participated > as infantry is, what was the overall impression of the naval presence > this weekend in Williamsburg?

    I, for one, thought the large navy presence was wonderful. I think it added a lot of depth to the event. I was almost arrested by one lad, despite the fact that all my papers were in order. It was quickly resolved and he was a gentleman about it, which I can't say for some of the other guards who searched me. I particularly enjoyed their gallant (but futile) attempt at besting the glorious soldiers of the 64th in the tug-of-war. I know that the tourists loved that.

    And may I also add that those officers cut quite dashing figures. Huzzah for the navy indeed.

    YH&OS

    Taylor Shelby

    64th Regt. of Foot Distaff

    ==========

    Dear List,

    The group has an excellent impression (imho), and good impressions are very welcome! Adds a bit of variety, and the army/navy rivalry even when not a 'staged' incident was also very good.

    YOHS

    Dave Woolsey

    ==========

    List:

    In all the thank yous for job well done I would like to make sure the Frau Spear and her water cart get a mention. She keeps us soldiers on duty at our posts and off the ground.

    Thank you Frau Spear.

    Jim Barringer

    Maryland Loyalists

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    List:

    I certainly echo MD Loyalist Jim's sentiments. Vielen Dank, Frau Spear! Alles war sehr gut! And not only was all good, the water, lemonade, peanuts and pretzels, but your winning smile and perky personality gives a lift to the men. You deserve much thanks!

    Malcolm MacWm., Sjt. Major, 42nd RHR, GrenCoy

    ==========

    Greetings All,

    Three pages of UTR photos are up at the 17th's internet home - if you would like a virtual copy of any of the photos, just let me know and I'll send it along. You can try downloading them right off the site, but I wouldn't recommend it- instead of jpegs, they download as enormous bmp files. I'll have a detailed AAR out tomorrow to go along with the photos.

    Regards,

    Will Tatum

    HM 17th Infy.

    ==========

    Will,

    Great pictures, especially of those extra-ordinarily brave and smart-looking Maryland Provincials. My compliments to the photog.

    YMH&OS

    Tom Burke (who never really noticed how big the balding spot on the back of his head is getting until now) Maryland Loyalists

    ==========

    Huzzah to Frau Spear with the watering wagon. It was a great help in the heat.

    You are a definite help to the troops.

    Reg Padgett

    42nd Highlanders - Fl

    64th Regt Foot

    ==========

    Greetings,

    The 42nd RHR now has images of UTR on the web. Please feel free to browse. I hope you enjoy.......

    images of UTR

    Susan Gable

    Distaff

    =========

    Gallant Forty-Twa,

    My Kinsmen! What great photos of all of us enjoying what was certainly one of the best UTR I have had the privilage being part. Please, forward me the pics of the Navy Personel so that I may have them put on our SOMERSET website as well. I hope you enjoyed the brawl on Sunday...I figured my Kinsmen would enjoy that! Glad you were part of that...only unit that could draw the whole fight even with that many Sailors! To see you guys rush into the fray made the whole weekend perfect! How will we ever improve on this years demonstration! My hats off to you and yours.

    Abu!

    Lt. Condrick

    HMS SOMERSET

    ==========

    You know, methinks the good Leftenant appears to have had an extra rum ration in one of those pics! :-)

    R/s,

    Charlie

    HMS Richmond

    "No man's life, liberty, or property are safe while the Congress is in session."

    ---Mark Twain

    ==========

    Greetings All,

    John's observation of the increase in gaitered trousers at UTR this year has motivated me to finally write my AAR. This year I reprised my role as a private with absolutely no responsibility other than to the members of the 17th who were present, and had a fairly laid-back time, which was nice. In five consecutive years of attending Under the Redcoat, I have to say that this is probably the best one to date- hats off to the organizers, but also to the participants. I saw a number of units in properly-fitted gaitered trousers for the first time, as well as at least twice as many campfollowers as in years past, most of whom were properly outfitted and busy doing useful activities, such as cooking for the officers' mess and manning the canteen for soldiers. Frau Spear did her usual fine job of keeping the soldiers on guard duty from keeling over. It was nice to have the Augusta's on our side, though I never did get the chance to properly chastize Chuck LeCount for recruiting such a notorious group of banditti into his ranks. The opposition did a credible job of making a mess of things...literally! They put on some crowd-pleasing demonstrations of having their stuff destroyed at several outposts, destroying numerous plates and emptying the contents of their grain sacks on the ground. Fortunately or unfortunately, the crowd was not suitably angered to riot. Did anyone get photos of the opposition at work? To my knowledge, we had minimal heat casualties, and I saw some significant improvements in the actual running of the scenarios, particularly in Jay Callaham's detailed instructions to the guard mounts on Saturday (he was serving as Provost for the day).

    We still do have some areas for improvement to work on. It would be nice if one of these days we could have all attendees in proper 1781 Virginia kit- pretty much gaitered trousers all the way for regulars. We also need to work on guard mount and relief. On Saturday morning, the guards were posted to the various positions within being given numbered posts or orders to repeat the distress calls of all the other posts so that the serjeant of the guard could hear them and respond- as it turned out, the sjt of the guard ended up sending me out to correct the post orders. It was a good thing, too, because the far post on Nicholson Street, behind the Courthouse, was alarmed about halfway through the Guard Mount. In times past, it has been extremely difficult to hear that post all the way at the Guardhouse, but with all the other posts echoing the call, we were able to relieve them very quickly. Capt. Callaham also highlighted the need for the serjeant of the guard to send out parties from his reaction force (that half of the guard that should be at the guardhouse) to pick up suspects from the posts, instead of weakening them by requiring soldiers from each post to return individually to the Guard house with captives. While the system seemed to work fairly well on the first guard mount on Saturday, by the second guard mount on Sunday, things had fallen apart and gone back to the old ill- organized style, with no orders to repeat the calls of alarmed posts, no post numbers, and no relief from the sjt of the guard to retrieve captives. I was very disappointed to see that breakdown after such a promising start on Saturday, and hope we can do better next year.

    The other issue I ran across is officers not knowing what they are supposed to be doing. Sunday's second guard mount was delayed for a good 20 minutes because the various officers were standing around, attempting to figure out who was senior, who was supposed to be doing what- I'm not entirely sure, to be honest. From my viewpoint as a private, all I saw was shiny lace in a tight group talking while the guards from the 1st mount had begun abandoning their positions and returning to camp of their own accord. When the composite company was later posted to the new position at the west end of Duke of Gloucester Street, we found it abandoned save for Ensign Campbell and one man of the 42nd, who reported that they had seen the former guards run off and posted themselves to hold the gap until we arrived. Now, I realize I don't know what the whole deal looks like from the officer side of things, but I can say that it does not inspire confidence in your privates when you stand around blabbering, and it presents the opportunity for the enemy to slip through the cracks.

    As a final note, we need more guard posts to fully secure the camp. As it currently stands, there are no posts along the camp kitchen line, embracing the width of Chownings Tavern, and the enemy often just walks through there to avoid being stopped and searched. If you want a completely secure camp, you need a box-pattern of posts around it, which granted requires a lot more manpower than is normally committed to the Guard. The inadequacy of the guard posts was revealed on Saturday when the poxy ragman managed to enter the camp only to be turned back by the Navy pikemen.

    So all in all, things seemed to go fairly decently well on Saturday's Guard mount, but Sunday was more of a disappointment.

    Now for the blow-by-blow. Breaking with tradition, the 17th detachment waited until 3 pm to march in with the baggage on Friday, rather than marching in with the advance force. However, the advance force this year was at least twice as big as I remember it being in years past, which meant there was practically no one hanging around at Fife and Drum between noon and 3 pm. We marched in with the 33rd and 55th, then set about putting up the camp before joining with the Guards for the 5 pm Declaration of Martial Law, which went off well.

    On Saturday, the 17th was officially combined with the 33rd to form the additional company, this year numbering only 6-7 men, due to various desertions and other issues. We pulled the first guard mount along with the 64th and the NC Volunteers. As per my expectations, the NCV, including those notorious banditti of earlier reference, went out and successfully captured the opposition's entire arms store and came in a cart laden with contraband and fifteen prisoners tied together WITHIN THE FIRST HOUR OF GUARD MOUNT. I guess if you really want the enemy rounded up properly, you have to call in the loyalists. It will indeed be a sad day when the Augustas are called upon to be the opposition force again. The rest of the guard mount went fairly smoothly, and featured the capture of the opposition commander, a number of his sailors from the ship "Mushroom," and a collection of questionable wimmen of indeterminate/deceitful age (one claimed to be 11 in order to get out of being jailed, but that ruse died a swift death). The composite company, under the leadership of Corporal McDowell of the 33rd, provided the security detachment for the guard house and endured the most stinging insults of various disaffected persons, as well as the constant threat of small-pox from the sickly and maleficient population of the town.

    Following Guard Mount, the composite company, along with the 64th, accompanied Captain Callaham to arrest a Mr. Robert Carter at the Raleigh Tavern, which was an entertaining exercise. The one thing I can't figure out is why we were going after Robert Carter, especially if the organizers meant him to be Robert "King" Carter who died long before the war. My knowledge of inbred Virginia first families is fairly sparse, but I seem to recall that Landon Carter was the chief of the Carter tribe at that point in time, though this Robert Carter we were sent after could easily have been a member of one of the cadet branches of the family. We managed to nab him at the Raleigh with little trouble, while at the same time putting on a good show for the visitors.

    Saturday afternoon was mostly spent in down-time, allowing the men to recuperate from the morning's exertions (the key to avoiding heat exhaustion). While I malingered in one tavern, the ever thoughtful Sjt. Major sent out the rest of the composite company to get drinks at another tavern, so that we could provide full security coverage at these notorious dens of treason. Following final formation, we foraged for our dinner in town and then returned to the taverns for the evening. We did not have as good a turn-out for Tattoo as I had hoped (the composite company and elements of the guards were present, but not much else), though the visitors still seemed pleased. The weather on Saturday was quite nice, relatively speaking- I don't think it topped 90.

    Sunday dawned a grey and somewhat overcast day. The composite company pulled the second guard mount, so we were able to attend church parade and polish our arms with ashes before the heavens opened up on us for a little while. After the rain stopped for a bit, we made off with a chicken from the officers' mess (thank you, gentlemen) and dined in style in a secluded portion of Chownings, where it rained on us again. Nothing being loath, we continued our dining and jollifying despite the pitter-patter of raindrops. For the second guard mount, we were all posted together at the new DOG street picket, where we think we caught the spy- a fellow in black clothes claiming to be a professor at W&M, but carrying various pieces of rebel propoganda. We are still waiting for Radford's final report to see if this was the real spy or not, since there were a number of individuals masquerading around as spies and deserters who didn't turn out to be our official targets. The remainder of the afternoon was spent malingering in true soldier-style, followed by the march out. I would like to congratulate the campfollowers for falling in with their units on the march, trailing at the appropriate place behind them, which made a really awesome spectacle for the tourists.

    So all in all, this was a really fine event. If you could've gone and didn't, you missed out. I suspect that if we keep improving at the rate I've observed over the last five years, we will be a fine sight indeed in a few more years.

    Regards,

    Will Tatum

    HM 17th Infy.

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    Greetings All,

    I just posted a long AAR for Under the Redcoat on the Revlist, but wanted to give some specific shout-outs here for the progressive units that were present. We had a whole lot of people coming out in some fine kit and doing some good work at UTR this year, making it the best event in five seasons.

    The gold stars go to the NC Volunteers and their Banditti bretheren the Augusta county militia, who cleaned up Saturday morning and, I kid you not, brought in 15 captives and all the opposition's military stores within the first hour of guard mount, more than meeting the dare I set for them on this list before the event. If anyone should run into Chuck LeCount, please feel free to chastize him properly for me for enlisting such notorious rogues within his ranks, as I did not have sufficient time to do a proper job of it myself at the event. We were very glad to have you Augustas on our side this year, and dread your next appearance as the opposition.

    The 4th Company, Bde of Guards, was present in vast numbers that weekend and their commander, Jay Callaham, served as the Provost for Friday and Saturday (though we wish he'd been in the hot seat on Sunday as well). As a result of his work, the operational machinery of the event ran more smoothly on Friday and Saturday than I have ever seen it run before. The Guards also did a fine job of keeping the Hessians and Highlanders in their place during Sunday's firing competition, and helped win the army-navy tug-of-war, giving the army, I believe, an undefeated record.

    Elements of the 17th and 33rd Regiments once again banded together to form a sadly under-strength composite company this year, but I like to think we made up for our small numbers with our vigilance, professionalism, consumate malingering, and occasional pilfering from the officers mess. The campfollowers of the 33rd Regiment, 2nd Captain's Company (NC), are to be especially commended not only for their excellent impressions, but for their dedicated labor in slaving over hot fires all weekend long to prepare vitals. They are models to be admiring, combining authentic material culture with a good period work ethic.

    The 17th Light Dragoons, our cavalry partners in crime, were out and about in good form, providing excellent demonstrations for the adoring public eye. Backing them up on the business end of horse-things was the new British Legion cavalry out of Williamsburg, led by that notorious deserter from the 17th Infy, Stuart Lilie. I was disappointed that nobody brought him in to me, since I did have two dollars in coin (modern dollars) for the lucky bounty hunter. Note for the future that when I run a deserter ad, you will actually receive legal tender for bringing in the deserter, if you can catch him. In fact, for mounted deserters, I'll raise the bounty if you bring me their horse, too. The BL cavalry made a good show and seemed to keep the "generals" happy, which, as we know, is the key to any successful military operation.

    The 64th Regiment's Southern Company made a fine showing in their gaitered trousers and late-war kit, raising the overall bar of the participants and contributing to the general improved appearance of the provost guard.

    Individual recognitions go to Frau Spear, who once again fought a winning battle against dehydration and the finest weapon in the rebel arsenal: the southern sun; as well as to Michael Grenier and Radford Polinsky for shouldering what must be a horrific logistical burden with practised ease and professionalism.

    My only personal regret- I didn't have more time to talk with all my friends that I rarely get to see these days, living so far north.

    As Mr. Grace would put it, "You've all done very well!" If I left anyone out, please forgive my much-maligned brain, which is being sucked dry by higher education. Hope to see you all at Camden!

    Regards,

    Will Tatum

    HM 17th Infy.

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    ----- Original Message -----

    From: William P. Tatum III

    Following Guard Mount, the composite company, along with the 64th, accompanied Captain Callaham to arrest a Mr. Robert Carter at the Raleigh Tavern, which was an entertaining exercise. The one thing I can't figure out is why we were going after Robert Carter,

    Simple, my lad, - - - because we were TOLD to!!

    Good AAR, Will. I was the Provost on Friday and Saturday and Major Loane of the 43d had that duty on Sunday.

    You make some excellent observations. I'll be soliciting some more over the next few weeks. We've done a lot of the activities at UTR flying by the seat of our trowsers, so to speak, and I, for one, join you in wanting to bring more order out of that operation. That process has begun and you and other Crown unit commanders will be hearing more in the near future. I want us to SHINE next year for the 225th (after the slovenly look on whatever day we actually take the town, that is)! More to come.

    Jay

    Cm Gds

    4th Coy, Bde of Guards

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    --- In Revlist@yahoogroups.com, "Jay Callaham" wrote:

    > Following Guard Mount, the composite company, along with the 64th, > accompanied Captain Callaham to arrest a Mr. Robert Carter at the > Raleigh Tavern, which was an entertaining exercise. The one thing I > can't figure out is why we were going after Robert Carter, > > Simple, my lad, - - - because we were TOLD to!!

    We can arrest dead people? AWESOME! Seriously, I suspect that, given the quality of research that goes into this event, there probably was a living Robert Carter at the time, so if anyone can shed light on this for me, I'd appreciate it.

    Jay, you can count on the support of the 17th for any operational improvements. We need to make the entire event more like our experience this past Saturday. And just to reinforce the point, I'd like to once again thank Radford Polinsky and Michael Grenier, without whom none of this would have been possible!

    Regards,

    Will Tatum

    HM 17th Infy.

    ==========

    I assume the composite company under the command of Captain Callaham had orders to arrest Robert Carter III of "Nomini Hall", the grandson of Robert "King" Carter who had died in 1732. Robert Carter III was born in 1728 at his grandfather's home "Carotoman" in Lancaster County, Virginia. Robert Carter III inherited substantial properties on his 21st birthday. He purchased a residence in Williamsburg in 1761 and resided there for 10 years. In 1772 he moved back to his 2000 acre plantation overlooking Nomini Creek and the Potomac River in Westmoreland County Virginia. At the time of the American Revolution he pledged his support to the American cause but took no active role in politics. He furnished food and military goods to the state government during the war. I have no evidence that he was in Williamsburg at the time of the British occupation. Irv Owings 1st and 7th Virginia Regiments of the Continental Line

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    List,

    Formations on the grass kept the reflected sun off the white road from cooking the men in place, great idea, practical, and not a historical controversy.

    Sentries asking everyone for passes, ruffled some feathers here and there, but they were doing their job.

    Searches of suspects were better this year, can still improve.

    Comments from patrons " We plan our vacation to be here for this weekend",,, " You redcoats make it like Christmas for us down here",,,,, "You turn a bunch of old buildings into a slice of living history for the weekend"

    One note for all reenactors, at times we forget the public, we close them out, we become reenactors reenacting for reenactors. If we are in a circle, they cant tell what we are talking about, if we take a suspect inside to question him, we lose the group of folks that followed him up from where he was arrested. Never answer a question with no, tell the patron you dont know, but you may be able to find someone that does.

    We have a huge playground at CW for the weekend, we need to engage the patrons to want to join in the game and not just shop in a quaint period mall. Get their children involved and you will win over the parents.

    Often you will see Michael Grenier, Jay Callaham, or Radford with a cluster of folks around them, and if they have another event to head to they invite the crowd along. Get them involved and you will have them for the weekend.

    Point out the cook line, mention the menu, point out the laundry, the hospital, the Town Major's area. There is a little city waiting for the patrons not just a bunch of tents.

    Women want to know what the women did, and children want to know what the children did.Yes we have duties to attend to, but if we do our duties perfectly and lose the public interest, we have lost our purpose, to educate and gain the interest of folks in their history.

    Many thanks to all the units that made CW possible. Especially Radford Polinsky, Michael Grenier, and Judy Polinsky, and all the units and their commanders.

    Your Most Humble and Obedient Servant

    Captain Michael Monahan

    Grenadier Company

    His Majesty's Fifth Regiment of Foot

    (In America)

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    Mike and List;

    My family stayed in CW for several days after UTR. During our stay, several CW employees recognized us as reenactors because of my son, Jim. (He was the Army Anchorman in our glorious victory over the Royal Navy in the tug of war.) These were not interpreters but people who worked in the Visitor's Center or in other capacities. They stated that they had their clothing made just so they could "play" with us at UTR. They said that they all look forward to our coming down because it is so much fun for them. It seems that they have as much fun as we do.

    Mark Crosby

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