Reenactors representing British, French, and Provincial soldiers, their Native American Allies and camp followers will set up an 18th Century military encampment on Rogers Island Saturday, Sept. 21 and Sunday, Sept. 22. Visitors who tour the encampment will experience the sights, sounds and smells of a colonial soldier’s daily life.
Weapons, canon and naval bateaux exhibitions will take place throughout the day while the camp followers perform their domestic tasks. The event will be held from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on both days, rain or shine. On Saturday at 2 p.m. and Sunday at 1 p.m., soldiers will reenact battle scenarios.
Rogers Island, in the Hudson River across from the town of Fort Edward, is considered the birthplace of the U.S. Army Rangers. On this island, 267 years ago, Major Robert Rogers wrote the “Rules of Ranging,” which are still used in a modified form by today’s Army Rangers. Admission to the Reenactment, the Visitors Center (during the event), and Parking is free. The Visitor Center exhibits and gift shop will be open during the event.
Visitors are encouraged to bring their children and interact with the soldiers and camp followers to learn more about military life during the colonial wars and to learn about the world of historical reenacting. Food & refreshments are available for purchase. The Visitor’s Center is handicapped accessible. Organizers suggest visitors bring their own chairs.
Rogers Island Visitor Center and Museum is a 501 (c)(3) not-for-profit. For more information, contact the Visitors Center at 11 Rogers Island Drive, Fort Edward, New York 12828, (518)747-3693.