Official Event Report
THE COURT OF KING JAMES – A DAY OF LEARNING, FEASTING AND DANCING
By Chris Timm

The re-enacting of the Jacobite rebellion in Scotland of 1745 in North America took a decided turn towards the less martial with a new event held in the fall. The Court of King James - A Day of Learning, Feasting and Dancing was organized by Patty Hughes and the MacKintosh Regiment, and was held November 3rd in Miamisburg Ohio. The concept was that it would focus on the social elements of 18th century Scottish life and give those interested in this time period an opportunity to learn more about these aspects and then be able to apply them.

The day began with a lecture by Elliott MacFarlane on life in Scotland in 1745. He shared information obtained during his recent research trip to Scotland that helped the participants to understand the general state of the country during this period. Following that a lively discussion was held on the topic of why re-enact the ’45 and how it should be done. The participant package, which was unveiled for Jacobite groups prior to this year’s Culloden re-enactment weekend, was the backdrop that was used to frame this portion of the program. The issue of authenticity and how we can continue to strive towards increasing this was prominent and there was general consensus that there is a desire to seek this.

Before breaking for lunch, Patty Hughes spoke about the group’s efforts to date and then announced that the proceeds from the event were to be split evenly and so a donation was made to the National Trust for Scotland and also to the Culloden 2002 event.

After lunch Chris Timm spoke on how to research, create and present an effective first person persona. Practical tips and examples were used to encourage the participants to attempt this unique way of better interpreting, experiencing, and teaching, the time period. There was wide agreement that one of the unique and appealing elements of the Culloden re-enactments and the 1745 Jacobite Rebellion In North America events, in general, is the number of people taking on roles and characters of the time and bringing them to life.

Later in the day, a period dinner was held in a prominent restaurant that possessed the ambiance to heighten this element of program. Period music was played by several musicians, conversation was enjoyed, a brief speech was given by Prince Charles and there were a number of toasts that those who attended participated in. It turned into an excellent time of fellowship and a great opportunity to practice 18th century social skills.

After the dinner adjourned, the participants joined the 6th annual All Hallows Ball held at the restored Baum Opera House. This period ball is organized and hosted by Buddy and Connie Kline who do a superb job of putting together a first class event. A large and wide variety of people attended, enjoying live music, period dancing and light snacks. To mark the participation of the Court of King James people the Kline’s were gracious enough to allow them to march in led by the clan pipers who escorted “Bonnie Prince Charlie” Prince Charles Edward Stuart and the others into the decorated hall. As well haggis was served by the MacKintoshes for those who wanted a taste of Scotland. The dancing was first rate and the entertainment excellent. The ball was a perfect conclusion to a great day. The Kline’s are to be congratulated on putting on a premiere social event and one that those who like to explore that element of living history should consider attending.

The Court of King James was a fitting conclusion to a fruitful campaign season. Plans are already underway for a full slate of events and activities pertaining to the Jacobite Rebellion in Scotland of 1745 in 2002.