The Delaware Light Infantry

Hart Canyon 2011

2011-04-21T11:00:00.000-07:00

An eerie Moon....

October 2009 update

2009-09-23T10:52:00.000-07:00

DELAWARE HASLETS LIGHT INFANTRY COMPANY
DRILL & EVENT SCHEDULE

October 3-4 Marching Thru History Prado

October 17 Van Tassel Festival

The parking pass for MTH was previously forwarded from Karen Glaze. It must be printed in color.

Van Tassel Festival is on for October 17th . Get your reservations in now so we know how many to plan for. Send $20.00 per person to Henry Kayser at 2398 Century Ave., Simi Valley CA 93063.

The festival is held at The Legion Building 159 Cullen Ave., Glendora. For festival questions call (805)527-8711.

If you have any question or comments please contact me.

My contact: dglenz@sbcglobal.net or (323) 223-7993

Valley Village, July 4th,

2009-07-05T22:04:00.000-07:00

Haslet's Company was given the honors of flying the colors in one of our newly liberated colonies, formerly known as New Shrewsbury, and henceforth re-named "Valley Village". We assume the name refers to Valley Forge. A Mr. Paul Hatfield was gracious enough to quarter us for this brief yet enjoyable respite. None of the King's Regulars were to be seen, no doubt the scurrilous dogs having chosen less-defended pastures.

Please enjoy the paintings:

July 4th 2009 Events

2009-07-01T10:32:00.000-07:00

Valley Village:

http://www.valleyvillageha.com/julyframes.htm

Huntington Park:

http://www.huntingtonpark.org/CurrentEvents.aspx?EID=869

This map is interactive. Clink on the link at lower left to print larger size.

View Larger Map

Hart Canyon 2009 photos

2009-04-26T08:59:00.000-07:00

Youngsters on guard..

Savages foraging for liquor or victuals to steal...hiding the women became of utmost importance.

The latest, youngest Delaware-- Ethan Boyce, noted sword-fighter and pistol duelist.

Unfortunate victim of the dreaded head-lice. After a blood-letting recommended by the town Barber/Surgeon just to be certain the pestilence was quieted, we shaved his head to prevent it spreading throughout the ranks.
We also fear his mind may be occupied by negative humors. A veterinarian has been summoned.

Traders in weapons of the finest manufacture.

The Street

Free at last from the shackles of parental tyranny.

Fiddler Farley and Daring David Palmer on the pick-string.

Hart Canyon -2009

2009-01-31T09:09:00.000-08:00

Breckenridge Buckskinners

2009 Hart Canyon Gate Hours

REGULAR GATE HOURS

8:00 A.M. TO 5:00 P.M.

SATURDAY, APRIL 11 thru MONDAY, APRIL 13

AND FRIDAY, APRIL 17.

GATE TO CLOSE EARLY SATURDAY, APRIL 18 AT 2:00 P.M.

(Day visitors for that last Saturday are required to leave camp by 2:00 P.M.)

Beverly Nighswonger

2008-10-31T23:12:00.000-07:00

We lost a dear friend a few days ago. A life cut so short, so unfairly, with the swiftness of a winter storm. The disease often gives no warning , as many of us know.

I knew Beverly only from our friendship in the hobby, but I always enjoyed her candor, humor, and vibrant spirit. Once, on a film shoot, she was cast as my 'wife'. From then on, we always enjoyed that private joke in public. Dave (her real husband) was equally good-natured about this absurd moment.

What I admired most in Beverly was her ability to interact with anyone, making them feel at ease and worth listening to. She had that quiet grace, and yet somehow managed to laugh with the guys without intruding into male territory. That subtlety and awareness which is so lacking in many of today's crass women will be sorely missed by all lucky enough to have been in her presence.

We'll all miss you, Beverly Nighswonger. And you will never be forgotten.

Fort MacArthur-July 12-13

2008-06-28T08:38:00.000-07:00

OLD FORT MaCARTHUR DAYS

		The Biggest Reenactment Show and Living History Event presented in the City of the Angels, LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA

	SATURDAY and SUNDAY 12-13 JULY 2008 Saturday and Sunday 1000 - 1600 (4 PM) Flag raising ceremony at 1015 on Saturday and Sunday For the year 2008, the event will be held the week following the 4th of July holiday.

Hart Canyon 2008 photos

2008-04-21T19:24:00.001-07:00

67" tall boy shoots 62" long rifle.....scores best shot of all.

The Troop.

A cool night, a warm fire.....no words needed.

Elixirs to ease the days' aches and pains.

Science Officer Palmer strikes a timeless car-jacking pose.

VIDEO-Seneca Run, stage #2-.75 caliber musket shot

VIDEO-Seneca Run, stage #5..fire making

VIDEO-friends, campfire, and music....

VIDEO-This girl won First Place!

Delaware card

2008-02-20T16:11:00.000-08:00

Gents-
Here is one idea for a business card. The unit has never had one, and I thought it was time.

***Thanks for the comments, guys. If there is something you'd like to see changed, please let me know, and I will do it and post it here for everyone to see. ***

++++When looking at these, be aware that the final design will have the blank areas where you will write your name in.++++

Battle of the Hook, National Event

2008-01-28T20:24:00.000-08:00

BATTLE OF THE HOOK, OCTOBER 18-19, 2008

INFORMATION

FULL DESCRIPTION IN .PDF

NEW DRILL LOCATION CONFIRMED!

2008-01-19T13:12:00.000-08:00

Dave Weidner, Dennis Palmer and I met today with Lee Hawkins and his partner Scott Raley (both Park Rangers for Los Encinos State Historic Park) and we are confirmed as of today to use the park for our drills and maneuvers. We will need to alter our schedule to the second Sunday of the month, at the Park's request. This is a great site, with two mid-nineteenth century buildings on site. It is freeway close, less than one eighth of a mile from the 101 freeway in Encino.

Our first drill will be there FEBRUARY 10Th, 10:00 a.m. to Noon.

DIRECTIONS

M.Atkinson,
Scribe

"Citizen Soldiers"

2008-01-11T16:55:00.000-08:00

..Members of the BAR, FEA, Delaware Light Infantry, Morgan's Rifles, and the 23rd Regiment of Foot worked on this recruiting spot...It was an honor to work directly with real National Guard members, who were selected for this spot. HOO-AH!!

The song and video are so powerful, I've posted the lyrics below:

Beyond the boundaries of your city's lights.
Stand the heroes waiting for your cries.
So many times you did not bring this on yourself.
When the moment finally comes, I'll be there to help.

And on that day, when you need your brothers and sisters to care.
I'll be right here.

[[Chorus]]
Citizen soldiers.
Holding the light for the ones that we guide from the dark of despair.
Standing on guard for the ones that we've sheltered.
We'll always be ready because we will always be there.

When there're people crying in the streets.
When they're starving for a meal to eat.
When they simply need a place to make their beds.
Right here underneath my wing, you can rest your head.
[Citizen Soldier lyrics on http://www.metrolyrics.com]

On that day, when you need your brothers and sisters to care.
I'll be right here.

[[Chorus]]

Hope and pray, that you never need me.
The rest assured I will not let you down.
I walk beside you, but you may not see me.
The strongest among you may not wear a crown.

On the day when you need your brothers and sisters to care.
I'll be right here.
On that day when you don't have strength for the burden you bear.
I'll be right here.

NAT'L GUARD SHOOT-photos

2007-08-22T19:57:00.000-07:00

Thanks to those who showed up for the National Guard film shoot. There were about a dozen actual members of the Army National Guard flown to L.A. for the film shoot, with members of Haslet's Delaware's and the 23rd RWF in attendance as well. The idea is a good one: The NG guys start off in militia impressions , circa 1775, then the same guys will be filmed in WW1, WW2, Vietnam, Desert Storm and finally present day uniforms and recreated situations, showing that the Guard has always been there. This will be released in theaters---not sure when. Stay tuned.

Here's some photos from the set:

Kelly's new look.....

Scene 4, take 2....

And --ACTION!

The "Doc", Randy, and some aimless vagabond...

Gualala-2007

2007-07-09T18:36:00.000-07:00

After Action Report

July 7th and 8th saw the West coast town of Gualala, California taken once again by Crown forces.

Most of the contingent was flown in to San Francisco airport, and then drove the coast road to Gualala, 115 miles north....about a 3 hour-plus drive. Captain Mack, Pvt.Steve Keller (Loyalist) Pvt.Sean Weller, and Pvt.Fleischer (Artillery) were already encamped by the time Pvts. Atkinson,Steve Weller,Boyce, and drummer Atkinson arrived late Friday night. The guest of honor, Major Ken Segal had arrived earlier as well. As before, the town tavern had a full head of steam lasting well into the night. There were many local ne'er do wells, footpads and trollops casting themselves about in all directions for many hours. AC/DC, The Eagles and numerous other 70's bands music was well received......through the floorboards, as we had no beds, only a patch of carpet to roll out the fart-sacks to sleep in. A soldier's mess, you see.

Saturday had two of the Delaware's wearing the redcoat out of necessity. Nonetheless, we did our job as requested, distasteful as it was, donning the uniform of Tyranny's master.

This year the event did not seem as well attended as before. Townsfolk were unclear as to what we were doing or where we were doing it. This was odd, since the schedule of events was published in the town paper. Nonetheless, we arrested numerous "rebels"(trumped-up, baseless charges of course), conducted field artillery demonstrations, musket drill and firing vignettes, and visited with the public in general.

The town goale was filled with various offenders to the King most of the day, with bail being raised by others to win their freedom. By late morning, the Crown colors flew at a fresh gale over the town magistrates office. Saturday night was the town dinner, with Pvt. Atkinson, Capt. Mack, Major Segal, and pvt.Keller in attendance. Being considered neutral territory, I was precluded from seizing the three lobsterbacks at bayonet point. Out of either pure misfortune or Faustian providence, I was seated with the most detestable of men, Capt. Mack. It was all I could do to keep my victuals down as this man waxed poetic regarding the virtues of enslavement. Yet, after a time, I felt as though reason and clarity had found refuge within the more enlightened members of our public table. Right-thinking Colonists know a fraud foisted upon them when they see one, and no trappings of position or title, nor gilded baubles swishing about the Captain's neck and shoulders could blind our people into any tepid endorsement of this enemy's sinister intent. It was clear that I had won them over to the Glorious Cause.

Back to reality for a moment......

Major Segal did a truly magnificent first-person dissertation of the history of the 23rd RWF, it's struggles in America, and how the unit related directly to the history of our country. The speech was about 20 minutes long. It was polished, seamless, informative, well-paced and well -received by the audience. I would say that all of us could learn from him. I know I will be using his model from which to improve my first-person impression. Outstanding, Major!

Sunday was begun with an 18th Century Anglican prayer service. The rest of the program on sunday was completed without my presence, so I will post more later upon receiving updates.

Your most obedient servant,
Pvt. Atkinson

Addendum to June Newsletter

2007-06-12T08:30:00.000-07:00

A L A R M !

A Dispatch of

Events of Import and Recent Development
in the
Delaware Regiment, Haslet’s Co. of Lt . Infantry

Greetings, Officers and Men-

Just a quick note to you Sons of the Blue Hen:

Capt. Mack has notified me that the people in Gualala would like to have 5 23^rd and 5 Delawares come up for the weekend following the 4^th of July. To this end they will fly these 10 people from L.A. X. up to Santa Rosa and then pick them up there with their bus and drive them into Gualala, and then return them to Santa Rosa on Sunday afternoon for the return flight home. Please let me know by phone , or return E-Mail as soon as possible, with a yes or no awnser so that I might compile a roster for this trip and airline tickets may be arranged. I am sorry for such short notice but the arrangements for this trip were just finalized. Mr Palmer and Mr Lenz have already told me that they cannot make this trip and are excused duty.

Best Wishes to you all!

H. E. Kayser

June 11, 2007

A favorite photo

2007-05-01T23:24:00.000-07:00

Gents-
When I switched over to the 'new' blogger, many of my previous posts got deleted. I think we need to get a website that maintains an archive. Anyway, here's my favorite photo from Yorktown, taken the night we all had dinner at the King's Arms....

Hart Canyon rendezvous-2007

2007-04-23T23:15:00.000-07:00

This year there were ten of us attending the Hart Canyon annual rendezvous: Kelly Boyce,Hank Kayser, Dennis Lenz, Dennis "Science Officer"Palmer,Andy and Mark Weller, David Weidner, Devin and Trenton Atkinson, and me. It was a superb turnout, enough to make a small camp street. I arrived Thursday night with Devin and Trenton with about one hour of sunlight left. Devin immediately got to work with the e-tool to dig out a fire pit. She was the beacon of industry. The ground was rock hard, throwing sparks off the modern shovel but she kept at it anyway, no doubt driven by the prospect of a decent breakfast cooked by Dad the following morning. The others arrived on Friday, and brought some inclement weather with them. Nonetheless, we all had a great time enjoying each others' company, Hank's really bad jokes, various spirits (though not to excess), the occasional fine cigar (some in this bunch have yet to appreciate this delicacy--but no one's perfect)...Mr.Palmer's delightful improvizations with chicken and bayonet (see photos) ...Mark Weller's scratch-built biscuits and cherry pie and the simple sounds of nature and a crackling fire at night.
Saturday night's meal was truly wonderful.

Saturday took us through the shooting walk-through, always a challenge and the source of good natured bantering. Hank out-shot us all, as usual, and Devin (12) shot the flintlock for the first time, hitting 6!..Trenton also shot a 6, placing second in the 'pee-wee' class, and also repeated his feat of hitting two targets with one shot to the axe blade, splitting the .70 caliber musket ball!. Outstanding!

It was a great weekend with good friends and good times.

Here are some photos:

Trenton practices his technique....

Kelly wondering: "who took my beer?"....

Dapper Dennis Lenz...

Don't mess with this young lady...she'll shoot you off your horse!

Dennis Palmer at the ready....

The young marksman...

Chicken a la Bayonet....

At the quick march!!!....Huzzah!!...Give them the bayonet,men!!! (err.....poultry!)

After Action Report-Ronald Reagan Colonial Encampment

2007-04-03T20:36:00.000-07:00

Since 1999, Members of The 23rd Royal Welsh Fusiliers, Haslet's Company of Light Infantry, and more recently, members of the 2nd Continental Dragoons have deployed en masse in support of the Colonial Encampment at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library.

The week/weekend of March 21st through the 25th was our latest event concluded with a resounding success.

Over 1500 school children per day attended the over-sold event, between three days of school programs, and two days of public demonstrations including battle vignettes portraying events of Lexington, Bunker (Breed's) Hill, The Cowpens, and our own choreographed presentation of " The anatomy of a battle ". The battles were narrated by Hank Kayser, who always does a superb job of explaining events to the public in real-time, while keeping up the level of enthusiasm and drama as tactics ebbed and flowed in each battle.

For the Lexington battle, Steve Columbus was our alarm rider astride Ticonderoga, faithful steed of the night. Steve rode up from the north, to warn the militia and alarm companies of the impending arrival of the regulars. One never knows how much history the public is aware of, but again, Sergeant Kayser brought them along for the ride.

The Anatomy of a Battle was well received, with Hank delineating all of the oft-missed subtleties of battle: how the Continental light infantry maneuvered differently than a line company of the crown forces, when and how each unit would load, fire, and advance while repeating the sequence, and ultimately fixing bayonets for the 'wet work'. At the grand finale', the public was treated to a recipients' eye view of the business end of cold steel (from a perfectly safe and preplanned distance)

Cowpens was another demonstration of light infantry versus line company tactics, although history was nearly revised by a British victory, had not Sergeant Kayser urged Mr.Lenz along in the battle------we were nearly bayoneted in the back!!....At the last possible second, pinned between the 23rd and the hedge, we wheeled about face with muskets at the level and unleashed a volley of lead, cutting down the Regulars with lethal efficiency, as did Morgan's men 230 years ago.

Speaking of the devil, Morgan's Rifles Paul Hildebrandt, Mike Hussey, Roger Gary, Jeff Black, and two of their latest recruits joined us for the battle, giving the Brits 'A Devil of a Whippin'. We were most honored to have the Rifles amongst us, and they performed superbly, providing the public with a rare glimpse into the life, equippage, and routines of Daniel Morgans' feared Virginia boys. The Morgans were well-received by the public, and we would like to see a contingency from their group at future events.

Here's a healthy and warranted Huzzah! to Morgan's Rifles.

There were other vignettes such as the Colonial recruiting party, which went well until vagabonds, footpads, and rabble-rousers so rightly protested the tools of ministry skulking about, taking our youth for want of the price of a schilling.

The Grand Forage, a short play which portrays the sufferings and dilemmas of the winter encampment at Valley Forge was performed both days by Mr. Lenz, Captain Ferguson and Mr. Kayser. The public was reminded of the great sacrifices made by those who came before us so that we should enjoy such bounty. We hope they left with a renewed appreciation of those who gave so much , when so little was of possession at the time.

This year's event was the smoothest yet, with very few moments of paucity, making for a very much engaged public..........our goal. There were no unsafe incidents of any kind, and we again thank the Morgan's Rifles for adhering to the Library's and our requests. Special thanks to Lt. Pritchard for providing the safety briefing, and to the 23rd for making their camp kitchen open to all. Thank you, Karen! Also, a special thanks to our newest recruit, David Savage, who was recruited by this blogsite. David drove from Lake Elsinore with his family to be with us in his first event. He continues to complete his Delaware kit. Let's all continue to encourage with sustained growth as a member of our unit.

It's the people in our groups that make this fun, year in and year out, and I can speak for Haslet's Delawares in thanking each of you for not only a event well done, but for an event well-enjoyed by all.

Congratulations to all who read this on our 7th Ronald Reagan Presidential Colonial Encampment!

Photos from the Reagan Library-2007

2007-03-29T07:43:00.000-07:00

Lock, Stock, and Barrel...

Lord George strikes an elegant, if hauty pose. His skullduggery is without limit.

Paul Hildebrandt of Morgan's Rifles in repose after the arduous work repelling the forces of darkness and misery.

A member of the publick examining patriot equippage...

Morgan's Rifles, The 2nd Continental Dragoons, and two members of Haslet's Co. hold their ground, moment before being shot down by the tools of privilege and greed.

Patriot daughters Devin Atkinson and Stephanie Weller mourn over the murdered innocents of the new nation....

Irrefutable evidence that it was the Regulars who inflicted the first blow...Peaceful patriots being struck down in cold blood in the midst of peace talks.

Ronald Reagan Library Event-2007

2007-03-21T08:09:00.000-07:00

Greetings to All-

The 8th annual Colonial Encampment and Re-enactment is this week, with the school programs already attracting 10,000 applicants for the program. As in previous years, the library has had to turn away many who signed up too late.

Our tactical demonstration schedule is as follows:
SATURDAY, MARCH 24th, 10:00 am to 5:00 pm:

Lexington and Concord
Anatomy of a Battle (a narrated 'freeze frame' demonstration )
Battle of Bunker Hill

SUNDAY, March 25th,10:00a.m. to 5:00 p.m.:

Lexington and Concord
Anatomy of a Battle
Battle of Cowpens

This year, we have the honor of hosting the Morgan's Rifles with us, who will be demonstrating Rifleman tactics and the value they added to the American War for Independence.

Admission is free, and there are many more vignettes to see:

British military recruiting party
An 18th Century Cavalry demonstration by the 2nd Continental Dragoons
Blacksmith demonstrations
weapons displays and demonstrations
Home life of the18th Century
Women's contributions to the war effort
Women's clothing displays
Original antiques and artifact displays
A small play entitled "The Grand Forage" describing the sufferings at Valley Forge
Numerous other activities for all to enjoy

Hope to see you there!

2007-02-25T21:36:00.000-08:00

Yorktown video preview.......

2006-11-27T19:24:00.000-08:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2AKsiyWHrkg

More Great Photos from Yorktown,2006

2006-11-19T22:11:00.000-08:00

Too many to post here. Go to the site to view hundreds of great photos:

http://www.flickr.com/photos/debmeister/sets/72157594341649233/

...Some Photos From Yorktown

2006-11-06T13:17:00.000-08:00

Yorktown-After Action Report

2006-10-30T18:42:00.000-08:00

Delaware Gazette

by Henry Kayser

Greetings: Congratulations, to all our Delawares, and our Belles of Delaware who traveled to Yorktown, as well as those who could not make the trip, yet supported and helped the rest of us on our way. Since returning from beautiful Virginia I have received postings from Major Cooke and Quartermaster Maitland expressing their observations and pleasure with the men and women of the Light Companies.

The men of Delaware made up the 2^nd platoon of the 2^nd company of the Light Infantry Brigade, with the first platoon being composed of the men and officers of the 3^rd Pennsylvania. Light companies from Mass. And New Hampshire made up the other two companies of the Light Brigade. Three full companies of Lights, working together in the field, going from line into three separate columns marching parallel, then going back into line again, extending, posting, advancing, firing as platoons, as companies, and as a brigade. The Light Brigade was a sight to see an experience to be remembered. After fighting in “the Battle of the Hook” on Friday afternoon, at Endveiw Plantation, the Lights and the French took part in a grueling practice session, that lasted until dark to get us ready for storming Redoubts 9 and 10. On Saturday morning after a hard workout for the Lights and an inspection by the N.P.S. the Light Brigade took the field and performed before the public at the Yorktown Battlefield Center. After a very short break we were to march to the busses and ride over to Endview for the taking of the redoubts. Since the Delawares did not field a camp, or camp followers for support, the men and ladies of the 3^rd Penn., very generously, shared their rations with our boys, not only Saturday, but Sunday as well, truly comrades in arms. At Endview we formed up for the attacks on redoubts 9 & 10. What a sight, the Light Companies in three parallel columns advancing on #10, and the French, on our left going at #9. We are moving rapidly across the field on a light run, the Mass Lights and New Hampshire Lights on our right and left, Delaware and 3^rd Penn. In the center, then the command is given to go into line and take the redoubt. Our 2^nd co is to take the frontal while the 1^st and 3^rd are to take the two sides of #10. Major Cooke wrote “ I have herd from our opposition that they couldn’t wait for the order to leave the redoubts as they were concerned that they would be run over by you guys!” The first three over the rampart and into the redoubt were Delawares, well done Sean Weller, James Burk, and Kelly Boyce. The entire 2^nd Co were first to flush the enemy out of their fortification, with the 1^st and 3^rd driving right behind. The Brits reformed and attempted a counter attack, but we defended our position standing inside the redoubt that once had been theirs. The Lights and the French drove back the counter attack and were rapidly supported by elements of the main army, and together we drove the enemy from the field entirely.

Saturday evening we were again on the field repulsing an attempted British breakout at Yorktown, the volleys were coming so fast that the field was covered with a thick layer of smoke, and we could see but little around us. The flashes of our muskets and those of the enemy showing in the oncoming darkness were impressive to see.

On Sunday morning the Light Brigade marched to what remains of the real redoubt #10, and there laid a wreath in memory of the Light Infantry who fought there 225 years ago as well as our fellow Light Infantry re-enactors who have passed on. Chester was sung and Psalms were read “I shall be exalted in the heavens, I shall be exalted in the earth, the Lord of hosts is with me”. I found this little service very moving and my thoughts drifted to George Woodbridge and Ian Anderson as well as others we have served with and not herd from in long years, Charlie Hayden, and Bob Hackler.

A trooping of the colors, thru the camps came next and we uncased our colors and they were proudly borne by Sean Weller along with regimental colors from many companies by their ensigns. This Color Guard along with a small guard of musket men passed before the drawn up main body of the army. Quartermaster, Scott Maitland was one of those in the Color Guard and he wrote of this experience, “During the trooping of the colors the detail marched the length of the Allied Lines. The lines spread from one tree line to the other, gapping only for the roads. As we marched past the Mid-Atlantic Brigade the Light Battalion came into view, standing at 90 degrees to the main line. Even at rest you presented quite a sight of hard worn troops ready to spring into action. I dare say, of all the troops we past, this was the most impressive sight.”

After the trooping of the colors we marched off on the Yorktown death march, Major Cooke states “2 miles” from the light camp to surrender field, under arms, colors flying, the French band, not far ahead, playing, and our own drums beating, and a light rain falling on us as we marched on. We were formed at the head of the American column, directly across surrender road from the French, who by the way, took one look at our Delaware Caps and began to shout “Who does those caps for you? Where can we get some?”. We were ordered to look only straight ahead and not taunt or make any signal or salute to the British who passed before us. The Brits were ordered to ignore the Americans and look only to the French. First Sergeants from the Light Brigade were sent out to receive the British, cased, colors, and Sgt Lenz served on this detail. The Brits laid their arms in the grass and marched off one company at a time. George Neumann narrated the entire scenario, and a very emotional experience it was for all who participated. Mr Maitland wrote “After the grounding of arms by the Crown Forces, we prepared to march. When the order was given to form the column from line, I stepped out with the colors. For a moment I found myself standing in front of the 1^st Co., 1^st Platoon looking straight down the road at Major Cooke. Standing in line to my left were the 106 men of the Light Infantry Battalion. That moment will remain frozen in my mind.

As a conclusion all forces were paraded on Surrender field, Crown Forces on one side and Allied upon the other, facing each other. All of the participants from the Yorktown Bi-Centennial were asked to step forward, and were saluted. It was a sight to see all these forces sharing this field together, re-enactors working together to time travel a little, to bring history alive for the public, and to keep the memory alive of those who fought and died in the birth of a new Nation where “Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness” still sets a standard for other nations to follow.

On Sunday Evening, thanks to the efforts of Sgt. Lenz, the Men and Ladies of the 23^rd R.W.F. and Haslets Delaware’s dined, men in their uniforms and Ladies in their finery, we took supper at the King’s Arms Tavern. There by candle light, music and song, fine food and much drink, and good company, we celebrated a great Victory, an emotional Surrender, and the Companionship of those who love this hobby as we do. As for myself, this time was every bit as good as it was 25 years ago, I miss those who were there before and could not be there this time, and I take pleasure in the new faces that are with us now. I hope you all enjoyed this trip to Yorktown and have found your way home safely and in good health.

Thanks to you all for your patience, for your endurance, and for allowing me to share this experience with all of you. Sons of the Blue Hen and Game Till the End.

Yorktown 225th

2006-07-17T17:35:00.000-07:00

The siege of Yorktown,Virginia of October 1781. http://www.siegeofyorktown.org/

This was the definitive battle of the American War for Independence that launched the new United States on its long path to where it is today. Lord Cornwallis was trapped by the French fleet to the east and the Continental army to the west.

Two years after this American victory, the treaty of Paris was signed, and America began it's journey.

225 years later, the forces of crown and congress assemble once more to commemorate this historic event in a dynamic display of military maneuver on part of the actual battlefield and Endview Plantation nearby. Re-enactors from as far away as France will be attending, swelling the ranks into the low 1000's . Infantry, artillery, and cavalry will be in full force, providing the public and the media with a display not seen since 1981, the year of the bicentennial.

This year, the Delaware's will be in attendance as well. Please use the contact at the upper right of the blog for further information, should you wish to make this historic sojourn into one of the glorious days in American history.

-Airline tickets to Richmond, Baltimore, or DC should be purchased by October 1st.

Remember to prepare for weapon transport ahead of time. Also, be aware that airlines are now charging extra for 'special handling' or 'special sizing'. So add as much as $75 each way on top of the airline ticket.

-accommodations in Yorktown proper are likely not to be had at this late date. Nearby Colonial Williamsburg will have many more rooms and variety of facilities to choose from.

-Please contact us for proper uniform and accoutrement requirements. This is a late war scenario, and our impression will adjust accordingly.

After Action Report- Reagan Library Event

2006-04-07T20:08:00.000-07:00

The Western Region department of the B.A.R. has successfully conducted our 7th consecutive encampment and re-enactment at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library. During the 5-day long event, over 7000 people viewed a glimpse of 18th century life and battle. Haslet's Company of Light Infantry and the 23rd Regiment of Foot drew constant praise from the public and from the Library staff for conducting an informative, dynamic, and safe historical event in a pleasant learning environment for a West Coast populace that is largely ignorant of the Revolution in general and military units and camp life in particular. Here are some pictures for your perusal ......

The public observes the company armorer at work...

Drummer Trenton Atkinson prior to his first field engagement.

The Continental Line marches into position....

The forces of Oppression and Darkness approach...

Delaware!..Present!.....

The continental Dragoons and Riflemen arrive...

Scoundrels sent packing.....

Life as it should be: ...as free Americans

Battalion....MAKE READY!!

2006-03-20T18:40:00.000-08:00

Reagan Library Event-April 2006

2006-03-06T11:05:00.000-08:00

The seventh annual Revolutionary War historical encampment is about to begin. The school programs begin wednesday, March 29th. This event offers the visitor a chance to see many vignettes of the American War for Independence. Camp life of both Continental and Crown forces will be portrayed throughout the week, with soldiers and camp followers being in period dress and character. There will be a blacksmith showing students what it took to keep the American soldiers weapons in good working order, demonstrations of weapons use and tactics, colonial dancing, a British recruiting party (which will gladly accept any elementary school age child into its ranks) , historically accurate court martials, a small stage play describing the deprivations of the Continental army at Valley Forge, and much more.

The battle demonstrations (3 per day) are ONLY on the weekend days, April 1st and 2nd.

This event has been a huge success every year, with fewer time slots available than classes requesting attendance, so call the Reagan library a.s.a.p...http://www.reaganfoundation.org/visitorguide/calendar.asp

and...http://hometown.aol.com/fcoyserjeant/Fusilier-Serjeant-RWFA.html

NATIONAL EVENTS

2005-10-26T17:59:00.000-07:00

The view from our Founding Father's back porch.......how he must have loved this place.

...A good time for everyone in the family.

...A Colonial family
..nearly 3000 soldiers attended....

Ft. Ticonderoga...
The Enemy....

What better way to see places than with your friends who have similar interests?....Here are some photos from the 225th anniversary Battles of Saratoga event. We took time to visit Fort Ticonderoga, West Point museum, etc. History lives when you take it out of the flat, dry textbooks!

White Plains, NEW YORK, 2001

Hart Canyon, CA.,April 2005

2005-10-26T17:46:00.000-07:00

We also attend a Southern California 1740-1840 era rendezvous.....what's a rendezvous?....a traditional time of meeting and trading after a long hard winter's trapping and hunting. In the 18th/19th centuries, rendezvous' were a way of conducting business, passing along news, etc. before there were malls and phones. These events are a great way for kids to do things that are now politically incorrect and taboo in today's tame public school environment. Musket, rifle, and pistol shooting is not only allowed, but encouraged by responsible adults. Additonally, there are tomahawk throws, archery, even a popular event for women whereby they can legally throw an iron skillet at their husband!...(all in good fun of course)
A young girl preparing breakfast on a brisk morning..

Gualala,CA.-July,2005

2005-10-26T17:41:00.000-07:00

Working with the publick.
Hank Kayser enlightening the oppressed colonials.

PHOTOS

2005-10-26T17:31:00.000-07:00

The Delaware Line.

INTRODUCTION

2005-10-25T17:50:00.000-07:00

Welcome!
As the website title says, we are an 18th century Revolutionary War Re-enactment unit. We are located in Southern California, and we always welcome new recruits, bearing arms or otherwise. Our aim is to maintain the memory of the struggle for Independence that the common soldier endured so that we may enjoy our freedoms to this day.

We do this by portraying both in image and in deed, the Continental Soldiers of 1776 known as Colonel John Haslet's Company of light infantry, of the Delaware Regiment.

We offer educational programs throughout the Southern California area, whereby the public can witness the camp life and battle tactics of Washington's army. We are not real soldiers, we are living historians, each with our own talents and specialized areas of knowledge. We are not political in any way, other than we do have the occasional affrontery reserved for King George the III.

Families are most welcome to join our group, as there is something to do for everyone. Men, while encouraged to take up arms against the tools of oppression (the British, naturally) are not required to do so. Women, known as 'camp followers, played a vital role in support of the army, and we have numerous women doing various impressions of the period. Children, if over 15 are allowed to bear arms if they wish. We are fully insured and safety oriented in our approach to bringing history to the public.

Please contact Hank Kayser or Marc Atkinson (see email address on this page) should you have any questions about what we do and if you would like to meet with us.

Check back frequently as this site is new, and we will be adding pictures and articles shortly.

Thank you for visiting!