By Matthew Gutierrez, Special Writer
Some are still nuts for history.
Why else would people travel from different parts of the country to spend a summer weekend participating in or watching a re-creation of parts of a Revolutionary War battle?
At Princeton Battlefield State Park on July 25-26, spectators enjoyed numerous demonstrations put on by artillery companies. The 18th century re-enactors of Mott’s Artillery Company, Lamb’s Artillery Company and Rhode Island Train of Artillery combined to give an up-close, real and live exhibition of what life was like at the time of the Battle of Princeton, in 1777.
Re-enactors demonstrated artillery drill, field maneuvers and cannon firing, which boomed loud and clear across the field. Camps were also set up to display the cooking and housing techniques of the time.
The Clarke House, built in 1772 and renovated multiple times since, was open for tours. The house is a fully furnished museum, offering viewers — through artifacts and exhibits — an idea of how it may have looked in the 18th century. The house is open throughout the year.
“The idea of this event is to teach people about the battle and life at that time,” said Princeton Battlefield Society vice president Kip Cherry. “A lot of people in the area don’t always appreciate how important (of a battle) it was. It’s good to see supporters come out and visitors from all over who are interested,” she added.
A U.S. National Historic Landmark, Princeton Battlefield is a peaceful state park of open space, wildlife and trails. But on January 3, 1777, it was everything but — the grounds were the site of a deadly one-day Continental Army victory over British forces. And while these re-enactors did not re-enact the battle itself, they did give spectators plenty to write home about.
“We enjoy American history and feel strongly about the United States,” said Mary Rose, a Skillman resident who was out for a walk with her husband. She considers herself and her husband students of history. “We think (we have) a great country, and we ought to keep it that way.”
Another couple, Princeton residents Tim Young and Norma Smiles, said they typically attend Civil War and Revolutionary War events and feel strongly about them.
“We have an interest in history, an interest in supporting people like this,” Ms. Smiles said. “That’s why we’re here.”
Even for not-so-frequent re-enactment-goers, the event was fun and informative. One Princeton retiree noted that she had wanted to go to a live history event for years and see first-hand people in uniforms. She finally did so. And just a few steps to her left stood another first timer, although this one was little younger at 5 years old.
Many of the re-enactors, and spectators, were from New Jersey. However, some were a bit more traveled: one group came from upstate New York and members of the Rhode Island Train of Artillery trekked down from Rhode Island, Massachusetts and Connecticut. Some spectators also traveled further than that — from as far as Iowa and Ohio.
Asked why he performs demonstrations throughout the year, Commander of Lamb’s Artillery Al Florio said it’s just about the fun. He coordinates practices almost every weekend in the summer to ensure the group has its demonstrations mastered.
“It’s a love for history,” he said. “And we’re nuts.”
The next re-enactment event at Princeton Battlefield State Park is scheduled for Sept. 26.
