Come to Princeton Battlefield on July 1st and see the 2nd Pennsylvania Regiment!!

Start the July 4 holiday with the rattle of musketry and thunder of cannon mixed with the sounds of fife and drum as The Second Pennsylvania Regiment of the Continental Line opens a window to the past and presents a vivid and exciting look at the soldier of the American Revolution at Princeton’s historic Clarke House on Saturday, July 1, from 10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The Second Pennsylvania Regiment is a colorful and authentic recreation of an actual patriot military unit that fought in the War for Independence. Founded in 1966, the organization is made up of history buffs from five states who have dedicated themselves to show the true appearance and tactics of the 18th Century soldier.

This respected living history group will provide a lively and accurate look at the typical infantry company of the period as the men perform the drill taught by Baron Von Steuben to Washington’s troops at Valley Forge as they stand and fire smoky volleys from their flintlock muskets. The unit is supported by blasts from one of the finest reproduction colonial field guns in existence. At the end of the demonstration, which includes an enthusiastic bayonet charge, the audience will be invited onto the field to talk with the members and see their uniforms and gear firsthand. Several firing demonstrations are scheduled throughout the day.

Each man has dressed and equipped himself as a soldier of the original Second Pennsylvania appeared when it fought the British more than two centuries ago as part of Gen. “Mad Anthony” Wayne’s division. All the items worn and carried by the individuals are painstakingly hand-crafted from existing specimens in museums and private collections–from the black tricorner hats down to the buttons on the blue and red wool regimental coats. The men are joined by a number of camp followers dressed in 18th Century garb who will demonstrate various camp skills used by the many women who accompanied their husbands on the long campaigns.

At other times the versatile unit portrays an actual British regiment: the 43rd Regiment of Foot. Renowned for its authenticity, the organization has appeared in films, television programs, and major commemorations at historic sites in the United States and Europe. Information about becoming a member of the organization will also be available at the event, or at the unit website at this link. 

The Princeton Battlefield Society supports the appearance.

C. Paul Loane, Event Coordinator, history1@comcast.net