We’ll be there this coming weekend!
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When this happens, it's usually because the owner only shared it with a small group of people, changed who can see it or it's been deleted.Miss the feast, maybe next year. Someone have some smelt for me, or noodables, perhaps some pie, or an apple dumpling would do.
This weekend! We're at the Forest Glen Nature Preserve for a weekend in the eighteenth century. Come see us! fb.me/e/6Ir8mHFTn
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When this happens, it's usually because the owner only shared it with a small group of people, changed who can see it or it's been deleted.Forest Glen Nature Preserve may be way out in the woods away from civilization, but that's no reason not to show off your ensemble! The ladies of the NWTA research and recreate their clothing to represent their specific persona. These ladies are all working class, but that doesn't mean they don't add a little extra style--kerchiefs, ribbons, and use of color and print show their fashion sense!
Photo from the Vermillion Valley Encampment, 2021 by Jennifer Orr
Thought I would add a quick "learning opportunity" (as these ladies and I like to call it) that the cable knit mitts on my arms aren't really all that authentic. They worked for that brisk morning while sewing myself into my gown (as you can see I'm in the process of doing), and women certainly wore long mitts in the 18th century, but they weren't chunky like these. Rather, they were smooth and elegant, seemingly even for the working class. That said, I've since made myself a more authentic pair and I don't find them very easy to work in, so I feel I'm missing a part of the equation. It's been my experience that when something we've recreated is a pain, we're usually not doing it right. Once we finally figure it out, it makes so much more sense...like a pair of well fitting stays that not only feels good and gives your shape "the look," but also protects your back and forces you into good posture...that sort of thing.
This is truly one of the most amazing opportunities in the NWTA! Gorgeous, quiet site with curious and engaged public during the day and the stars at night!
"Meet the units there, find one you like, and ask if you can guest with them at their next event. It’s that simple!" <--Don't miss the chance!Central Illinoisans/Hoosiers! This is your chance. Come check out our reenactment at Forest Glen near Danville, IL, September 24th & 25th. www.nwta.com/event/vermillion-valley-encampment/
Meet the units there, find one you like, and ask if you can guest with them at their next event. It’s that simple!
The NWTA welcomes non-members to guest with us at up to two events before deciding to join. We can provide 18th century clothing for you to borrow, and your host unit can lend you a tent to stay in, as well as any necessary equipment (including reproduction weapons for those portraying soldiers).
Every unit handles meals a little differently, but that and gas money are really the only cost to trying this out!
If you find that this hobby isn’t for you, no problem. You are under no obligation to the host unit or the NWTA. If you want to keep going, our yearly membership fee is a whopping $20 per individual, or $25 per family. Once you officially join a unit, they can help you figure out how to get your own clothing/gear (<--that’s the real cost, but many items can be homemade or bought used).
Each of the NWTA units is an organization unto itself. Though it’s often an interest in a particular kind of unit that draws new members (like an interest in artillery, or British regulars, or fife music), check out the unit’s “personality.” Some are very family-oriented with whole families reenacting together and lots of kids in camp, while others may have a membership of younger or older participants. Other variations include unit size, ratios of men to women, engagement with the public, desired authenticity, etc…not to mention the personalities you’ll find that make each unit their own family. Meeting the units in person can give you a better grasp of who they are than any “About Me” section ever could.
Always feel welcome to speak to units directly and ask about guesting with them. Many of our guests come to us as friends of current members—and that’s great! But many times, they are simply visitors that liked what they saw. Keep in mind, units may vary in which events they attend and the amount of recruits they are able to host, so speaking to a couple different units might help you.
If you'd like help getting started, contact our Recruiters via the Request to Guest form at nwta.com/join-form/. We will answer any questions you may have and find you a host unit for an event you’d like to guest at.
We can't wait to see you out there!
Love it!! 🙂
Just checking in--we still on for some skirmishing in the woods later?
Our event at the Forest Glen Nature Preserve near Westville, IL is approaching--and the terrain is ideal for skirmishing troops, with clearings and trails in the forest.
More here: www.nwta.com/event/vermillion-valley-encampment/
The skirmish in the woods was awesome last year!!!!
Be our guest
Interested in reenacting but unsure if it is for you? Not sure how to get started? Be our guest and find out more.