Revolutionary War Encampment Weekend At Chase Farm

The British are coming to Lincoln, RI! Over the course of the weekend of September 10-11, visitors will be given a close-up look at the lives of the soldiers, women, and children through living history presentations, including drills and arms demonstrations, medical scenarios, camp cooking, narrated skirmishes between armies, military encampments, changing of the guards, guest presenters, various vignettes, Colonial-era crafts, and kids activities and experiences. Merchants who followed the troops, known as sutlers, will be on hand with a variety of  goods for sale to the public.  A food vendor will also be on site.  The event is designed to appeal to all ages.

Kathy Hartley of the Friends of Hearthside, the organization who is hosting the event, states, "In 2026, our country will be commemorating its 250th anniversary, and this event provides visitors with an opportunity to understand the struggles that were endured to achieve our independence. Visitors are invited to be a part of a Revolutionary War scene as history comes to life around them, not merely as a spectator but as an active participant in an immersive, authentic, three-dimensional experience provided by reenactors who are passionate about history. Visitors may look, touch, hear, and talk to the soldiers and camp followers, learning about their lives and creating an experience that will be long remembered." 

On Saturday camps open to the public at 10:00 a.m. and close at 5:00 p.m., and on Sunday activities begin at 9:00 a.m. with the closing at 4:00 p.m.  Visitors are encouraged to plan on spending the entire day or at least several hours in order to get the most out of the event and may wish to bring along folding chairs.

A special feature on Saturday includes guest speaker, Don Hagist, living history reenactor and author of numerous books on the American Revolution.  His talk, "Sober Industrious Women: Soldiers' Wives and their Occupations," will delve into the role of women in the British and American armies during the war, a long overlooked subject. His talk is scheduled from 11:15-12 noon.

Also featured on Saturday will be a medical scenario, with an 18th century surgery demonstration and lecture.  This activity takes place from 3:00-4:00 pm, following the tactical demonstration that will result in wounded soldiers needing medical attention.

Sunday's special features include church services in the camp at 9:00 a.m., followed by an 18th century wedding ceremony at 9:30, which the public is invited to.  Tactical patrols begin at 10:15  with public immersion.  

Also, guest speaker, Robert Geake, noted historical author and local historian is scheduled for 11:15-12 noon.  His talk, "From Slaves to Soldiers: A History of the 1st Rhode Island Regiment," will focus on the formation of this unique regiment comprised of mostly slaves and Native Americans.  "The Black Regiment" as it became known during the Victorian era, was noted for their contribution to the cause of American Independence, and particularly their role in the 1778 Battle of Rhode Island.

Hartley notes that the event is different than past reenactments held at Chase Farm, in that the focus is less on the spectacle of the battles that were presented. Rather, this year's event provides a more participatory and educational experience by keeping all activities within a more compact area, allowing for an up-close and  personal interaction with the reenactors.  Activities take place in the concert amphitheater with encampments in the upper meadows at the park. The Pullen's Corner Schoolhouse will also be open and hosting children's activities.

The event is presented by the Brigade of the American Revolution.  Started in 1962, the Brigade is a nonprofit living history association dedicated to recreating the life and times of the common soldier of the American War for Independence, 1775-1783.  Members represent elements of all armies that had been involved: Continental, Militia, British, Loyalist, German, French, Spanish and Native American forces plus civilian men, women and children.

Admission is at the gate and cash only. General admission $10; age 10 and under $5; under age 5 free. No dogs are allowed in the park during the course of the event.  

Proceeds from the event benefit the continued restoration of the historic buildings at the Great Road Heritage Campus at Chase Farm Park which include Hearthside Museum, the Hannaway Blacksmith Shop, the Moffett Mill, and the Pullen's Corner Schoolhouse. 

The event is held rain or shine.  For more information, visit hearthsidehouse.org or contact info@hearthsidehouse.org 401-726-0597.