THE ROAD TO CULLODEN 2004

This spring, the seventh annual Culloden battle reenactment and Living History encampment will take place. The date for this event is May 14 - 16 ’04, and the location will be historic Crown Point State Historic Site in Crown Point, New York. Those interested in Scottish and British military history of the 18th century, Highland culture, and the 1745 Jacobite Rebellion in particular, mark your calendars and plan on attending this unique event!

The ’45, as it is called, represents a colorful period in 18th century history and a dynamic time period in the reenactment community and living history hobby. The ’45 allows for nobility, upper and lower class impressions, a wide variety of military and civilian opportunities, historic scenarios, large scale battles and intense small-party tacticals, all based on the events as they happened. It is a time period that has refreshed the interest of many seasoned re-enactors through the depth of character portrayal available and yet is been accessible to someone new to the hobby. Events have been held throughout the United States and Canada focusing on various elements of the 1745 campaign and also 18th century life in Scotland and England.

The latest incarnation, “The Road To Culloden”, promises to be the biggest and best yet! More and more individuals and groups have come on board, impressions and authenticity standards have achieved impressive levels, and we have a great site for the event. Crown Point has much experience in 18th Century living history weekends, including successful F&I and Rev War events, combined with the exciting program planned it promises to be a memorable weekend.

A highlight of the weekend, and a new element from past events, will actually be water borne. On Friday evening for re-enactors and again Saturday for the public the landing of Prince Charles will be re-created with a tall ship and other period boats bringing him to shore at Glenfinnan and then taking him away Sunday after the battle of Culloden at Loch Nan Uamh. The boats will also figure in the tactical activities throughout the weekend and will add a very exciting new twist to the program, which is sure to be exciting for all participants.

Beyond the naval action “The Road To Culloden” will actually entail two exciting battle scenarios, and numerous other activities and tacticals. Friday evening will feature the torch-lit Clan Gathering and a recreation of the raising of Bonnie Prince Charlie’s standard at Glenfinnan. Saturday’s program will involve the boat landing of Prince Charles and Jacobite victory of Prestonpans. Later Highland games will be held for all interested participants, which is always a highlight. The Government/British army’s camp will enjoy a festivity which actually took place on the eve of the Culloden fight: the birthday celebration of its commander the Duke of Cumberland. Saturday evening, a ceilidh - a Gaelic term referring to a festive gathering - will take place with all event participants invited. This lively evening includes top-rate period music and a tavern. Finally, Sunday will showcase the climactic battle of Culloden Moor; of course an overwhelming British victory and the ultimate defeat for the rebel Jacobites.

Troop requirements and contact information follow below. Family participation is of course allowed, but be advised that individual registrations will not be accepted. Participants must belong to a pre-registered military unit or clan group and will be invited by the host in order to ensure all site, safety and authenticity concerns are met. Unaffiliated individuals and interested groups are encouraged to make contact with one of the organizers in order to get connected with an approved group since there are ones throughout North America and assistance is available to create an appropriate impression.

Needed on the Gov’t/British side is: Regular infantry (both hatmen and grenadiers), Royal Artillery, mounted dragoons and loyalist Highland clansmen of the Argyll (Campbell) Militia.

For Further information on the Government Army or to receive an invitation contact:
James Parillo
196 A Route 4N
Schuylerville NY 12871
Email: jamesandjen@spa.net

Needed on the Jacobite/Rebel side is: Highland clansmen, Lowland militia, Irish Picquets (from Irish regiments in the French army), Royal Eccosais (Scots in the French army), and artillery. Detailed guidelines for Jacobite impressions are available at: http://www.macfarlanescompany.org/guidelines/page1.html

For Further information on the Jacobite Army or to receive an invitation contact:
Chris Timm
68 St. Vincent Street
Kitchener Ont N2H 4R3
519-742-3882
Email: rebellionof1745@yahoo.com

For more information regarding Crown Point and for Sutlers and Merchants contact:
Crown Point State Historic Site
C/O Tom Nesbitt
739 Bridge Road
Crown Point, NY 12928
Ph: 518-597-3666
Email: TNesbitt.KYCHROS@att.net
Or
William G. Farrar IV, Site Manager, 518-597-4666