Watch as the past comes to life before your very eyes at the Newport Historical Society’s 1777 British Occupation Living History Event! The Redcoats are coming – August 26, 2017 in Newport, RI!
Prior to the Revolutionary War, Newport had a booming economy and was the fifth largest city in the American colonies. Then, December 1776, British troops arrived, dramatically altering Newport’s future. A large percentage of residents fled the city. Those who stayed behind faced a three-year occupation and growing tensions between loyalists and British troops.
Witness what it was like, first hand by coming to the 1777 British Occupation Living History Event! Over 75 costumed interpreters will help to recreate the pivotal summer of 1777 on Aquidneck Island.
The 1777 British Occupation Living History Event opens with a heated argument between two men who favor the crown, and closes with the capture of General Prescott. You’ll meet an apothecarist, a printer, merchants, food sutlers, a tavern owner, and many others. Visitors will also witness an auction of scarce food and goods, a unique wedding, intimidating British soldiers, and much more.
A variety of optional, related events will also be available during the 1777 British Occupation Living History Event. For a modest fee, for example, you can go an interactive hunt to collect intelligence for General Washington. You can also go on a special walking tour that focuses on colonial Newport’s thriving rum trade.
The Revolution in Newport Walking Tour will wind its way through Washington Square, learning all about the rum trade before ending up at the White Horse Tavern. Here, you’ll sample rum from a reproduction, 18th century, standard sized Royal Navy cup. Best of all, you get to take this handmade, silver and brass cup home as a keepsake!
Space for the Revolution in Newport Walking Tour is limited to 20 adults, over the age of 21. Reservations are required. If you’d like to join in, call 401-841-8770 or visit the tour page at newporthistory.org.
Don’t miss Newport Historical Society’s biggest historical re-enactment ever!
1777 British Occupation Living History Event
August 26, 2017 – 1pm to 5pm
Newport Historical Society, 82 Touro Street, Newport, RI 02840
Be sure to visit newporthistory.org more information and event updates.
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