Our Mission:
To re-create and perpetuate the Military and Civilian History of the American Revolutionary War Period. (1775-1783)
A member of: The Living History Association
We make history come alive!
The Lebanon Towne Militia Today
Today, our Militia Company numbers approximately 50 members. It is a diverse organization of men, women, and children who share a love of the birth of our country. Our members come from all walks of life, and from various parts of the states of Connecticut, Massachusetts, and Rhode Island.
We embrace 18th century military camp life, crafts and occupations of the time, and recreate the life of the colonial militiaman and his family. Get the details on the environment and social conditions from both a soldier’s and a civilian’s perspective.
Come with us and experience the past. We simulate historical battles, present drilling/artillery demonstrations, educate the public about life in the 18th century, march in parades celebrating our country’s history, present school programs, and have a great time year round.
A Soldier’s Equipment & Activities
Musket Review – lock, stock and barrel. Learn the parts of an 18th century weapon.
Inspection – a non-commissioned officer verifies the safety of each soldier’s equipment before battle.
Musket Firing Demonstrations – experience the process as the soldiers follow their officer’s commands. Notice the difference between one man firing alone and several men firing together.
Artillery Demonstrations – learn the devastating capabilities of the cannon and the intricate procedure of the firing process. Safety precautions are explained and enforced at all times.
Battle Re-enactments – both historical and general scenarios; skirmishing. Watch the battle unfold before you. See the fire, smell the smoke. Hear the explosions from the muskets and cannons. Listen for the commands from the officers. Observe the movement on the field and the strategies used on both sides.
Civilian Crafts, Skills, and Occupations
Demonstrations presented may include some of the following:
Basket Making – weaving and discussing the shapes and uses for each design.
Camp and Hearth Style Cooking – prepare meals using roasting, baking, and stewing techniques performed over an open fire.
Candle Making – discuss and demonstrate different methods of candle making.
Food Preservation - discuss and demonstrate various methods of preserving food before refrigeration
Gourds– discuss and demonstrate how to shape and prepare gourds for various uses.
Gunsmith – discuss gun making, display reproduction flintlocks and military pieces.
Leatherwork– discuss and demonstrate various types of leatherwork and its uses.
Midwife/Herbalist – covers any illness from birth to death, delivering babies, and herbal remedies of the period.
Music - discuss and demonstrate 18th century Music, on harp, fiddle and guitar.
Pewter Casting – cast pewter spoons and musket balls and toy soldiers.
Surgeon – discussion and displays covering 18th century medical practices including bleeding and amputation.
Textile Production - discuss and demonstrate spinning, weaving, carding, wool dyeing, rug hooking, embroidery, needlepoint, crochet, sewing techniques.
Woodworking – discuss the tools and activities of rough carpentry, use a shave horse to build chairs, tables, stools, axe handles and more.