2002 Campaign Memoirs Memoirs of Geoff Audas (below), Memoirs of Andrew Schroter
This year's event did not begin until after school for many participants, but for a hearty few, the campaign began in the early afternoon. by 11:30, a handful of Kenner students had arrived, as well as the dashing officers pictured above. We began setting up the "Historical" camp. The two single pole marquees looked quite impressive, but unfortunately the wind-tunnel like conditions of Norwood high school kept them inflated like balloons. Somehow, the ropes, canvas, and pegs managed to hold.
Tim began to set up his marquee as a rifleman shrine, complete with banner, uniforms, and rifles arranged in dramatic style. Unfortunately, the canvas sheet that was an integral part of his cot was missing, so he had to drive back to Peterborough to get it. For those who remained behind, it was a tiring task to set up the remaining tents, some of which did not survive through the weekend. Lesson learned: tent poles should be HARD wood, not soft.
By around 5:00, the other students had arrived, and had begun setting up their tents. Soon the entire camp was laid out in military formation, and the students began practicing their drill. After sundown, the students were dismissed, and the participants were left to their own devices for the remainder of the evening.
The 16th U.S. Regiment, formed from Norwood DHS, and Lakefield CS students
On the second day we were awakened by the drum, and the students formed up for more drill. In all, we had three schools represented. There was Norwood High School (25 students), Kenner Collegiate (15 students), and Lakefield College School (8 students). We focused on instructing each school as a unit, and then brought them together for "battalion" exercises. The event was given a dramatic addition when the cavalry arrived, looking every bit the part in their Canadian Dragoon uniforms.
The Canadian Dragoons preparing for battle.
When the time came for our mock battle, the student units were ready for the engagement. The American forces marched out first, to deploy behind a copse of trees. A cannon had also been wheeled out earlier to serve the Yank army.
The first unit out was the Canadian Dragoons, who served as scouts. After they had "discovered" us, they reported back to the Canadian Voltiguers, who deployed as Light infantry. They were met by the Riflemen, who were deployed in a similar fashion. The battle continued between the different light infantry units until the American and British lines took to the field, and began to exchange volley fire with one another. The most dramatic point in the battle was when the Yankee gun was taken by the British, and then re-taken by the Americans. Having sustained casualties, the British retired in good order, and left the field.
The next major event was much less bloody. Around 5:00, the students prepared for the regency dinner and ball. For many participants, this was the highlight of the event. The female students changed out of their battle-scarred uniforms, and into evening gowns. The male participants cleaned themselves up the best they could. At around 6:00 we boarded a bus and headed for the Norwood City Hall.
Norwood students guard the centre of festivities.
Upon arriving, the guests were ushered in, and shown to their seats. We were served a fine buffet dinner, and our meal was interupted at numerous intervals to toast the King, the President, and the French. Norm Vandenberg, the organizer of the event, was heralded by all in attendance, and presented with framed poster of the event, as well as cheques for future student programs.
Casey, Ryan, Stephanie, and Mike await their dinner.
After dinner the tables were cleared away, the dancing space was prepared. We were treated to some traditional dances by the English Country Dance club from Peterborough. This part of the event was very energetic, and all the students had a great time. The group had both the opportunity to dance, and to take breaks outside.
Later that night we boarded the bus once again, and headed back to Norwood. As with the previous night, students were left to talk and enjoy one another's company. Unfortunately, this night was quite a bit more chilly, and many students elected to head straight to bed.
Tim directs the British and American student forces
The morning began bright and early with Mitch playing his trumpet over the officer tents. When we were finally assembled, meal tickets were issued, and breakfast was eaten. By this point, we were all tired, and students were given more time to rest and prepare for the last event: the battle. When the battle finally did come, the American force was crushed by the British, and we were forced to retire in a rout. This did not preclude us from a parade by the audience, and a short thank-you presentation to the re-enactors and public.
When we arrived back in camp, the Kenner students were nice enough to thank me in their own special way for my help in preparing them for the event. We then began the bitter-sweet process of dismantling camp. We left tired, and a little sun-burned, but also with a great deal of enthusiasm, and with cameras full of film.
Some Kenner students pose as soldiers one last time.