Events
for 2008-2009
Events
for 2008-2009 Aug 23, 2008 - Battle of Medina 10 AM, This year the Battle of Medina commemoration will commence at 10:00 A.M. August 23rd northwest of Leming, Texas on Applewhite Road (see directions below). THE PUBLIC IS INVITED!!!
Pre-1840 reënactors are needed to parade the colors and for volley fires for a short ceremony. The participants well relocate to an air conditioned location for the remainder of the ceremonies. Contact Tom Green (tbgreen3@prodigy.net) at 832-687-3474.
How to Get There:
From San Antonio, go south on US 281 toward Leming and Pleasanton. Cross Loop 1604 and go about 6 miles; watch for FM 536 on the left. Turn RIGHT there onto Pleasanton Rd. Turn LEFT at the second intersection onto Bruce Rd. Bruce Rd will veer left, then right, then left in the next 2 1/2 miles; turn RIGHT onto Applewhite Rd. Watch the right for a big tree and the battleground.
About the Battle of Medina:
August 18, 1813. The Federalist´s army of native Texians and American volunteers are defeated at the Battle of Medina south of San Antonio by Spanish "royalists" resulting in the most casualties of any battle in the western United States. The Spanish army pursued the survivors to the neutral zone of Louisiana. The army under Spanish General Joaquin de Arredondo killed many adult males across Tejas and impressed their families into forced labor in Bexar. Lt. Antonio López de Santa Anna participated in the defeat of the first "Republic of Texas" as a member of the Spanish Army. This event is rated 3.
Sept 19-20, 2008 - Texas Heroes Day - The Legend Lives Friday and Saturday, the annual Texas Heroes Day - The Legend Lives Event will take place at the Texas Parks and Wildlife's Monument Hill Kriesche Brewery State Historic Site in La Grange, Texas. This event is co-produced by the Friends of Monument Hill Kreische Brewery, the Monument Hill Chapter of the Daughters of the Republic of Texas, Chapter Number 53 of the Sons of the Republic of Texas, and the Friends of the Fayette Library and Museum. This two day event will celebrate the contributions made by the men of the ill-fated 1842 Dawson Massacre and the 1846 Meir Expedition. Every year this event is held on the weekend closest to September 18th when the remains were placed in their final burial site on the bluff above the scenic Colorado River valley which is now part of the state park.
Friday, the Fayette Library and Archives is offering extended hours and a 6 PM private reception and archival presentation for families and scholars researching the historical period between 1836 - 1840's when Texas gained independence from Mexico as a Republic through its transition into Statehood. Visitors are encourage to bring private historical collections with them to this event in order that those items can be copied or donated to the Fayette Archive adding to the efforts to grow the body of knowledge of this time period in this historic, central Texas region. Fayette County was part of the original Stephen F. Austin colony.
Saturday will feature historical re-enactments, a historic flag display, period craft demonstrations and music in addition to a commemorative program beginning at 9 AM at the Park. This year's commemorative program is To Be Announced. The Saturday program ends at Noon with a picnic.
Free handicap accessible, bus shuttles are offered using satellite parking at St. Paul's Lutheran Church on US 77 and Walnut Street in La Grange. The Park fee are $3 for adults and $2 for children under the age of twelve. Visitors are encouraged to bring their own picnic and folding chairs to enjoy a day in the Park. Proceeds from the tickets and donations go to the continuance and development of the Park's interpretive program that focuses on the 1836 - 1840's period history. Refreshments will be available for sale.
Monument Hill Kriesche Brewery State Historical Park is located one mile south of La Grange, Texas off U.S. 77 and Spur 92. The park is one mile west on Spur 92.
Contact Information:
Monument Hill Kreische Brewery State Historical Park at 979-968-5658
Reenactors contact:Lennie Brown info@texanatrailslodge.com979.247.4457
Historical information about the Dawson Massacre and/or the Mier Expedition see the Handbook of Texas online at www.tsha.utex.edu/handbook/online/
Sept 20, 2008 - Texian Navy
Day NOTE: Ceremony in Houston cancelled by Hurricane Ike; please fly your Texas flag on the 20th. Saturday, September 20, 2008, is Texian Navy Day, honoring
the contributions of the Texian Navy in helping secure the independence of the
Republic of Texas in 1836. Long recognized in an ad hoc manner by governors and
the Texas legislature, in 2005, the legislature enacted a law (Texas Govt Code
662.051) officially establishing the third Saturday of each September as
Texian Navy Day, which "shall be observed with appropriate ceremonies and
activities."
History has forgotten that the lone star of the Republic of
Texas shone brightly on the waters of the Gulf of Mexico. Without the daring and
dangerous exploits of the Texian Navy, Mexico easily could have re-supplied
their land armies still in Texas in the immediate aftermath of the surrender of
Gen. Santa Anna at San Jacinto or mounted a seaborne invasion after the San
Jacinto victory. The Texian Navy was able to protect the young republic's long
coastline with its many rivers, bays, and inlets to projecting power beyond its
littoral waters to Mexican coastal towns as far away as the Yucatán. Ultimately,
the Texian Navy was a real balance of power amongst the Navies of the United
States, Mexico, and the European powers, all vying for influence in the Gulf of
Mexico. The Texians' courage and striking power were far in excess of that which
reasonably could have been expected from such a numerically disadvantaged force,
and it was their fighting spirit that made the difference.
Please help
recognize this date in history and preserve the memory of the seaborne valor of
those who helped create the Lone Star State by flying your Texas flag on this
day.
On Saturday, September 20, 2008, at 10:00 a.m., The Sons of the Republic of Texas (SRT) will honor the second commander of the Texas Navy, Commodore Henry Livingston Thompson, at the historic Founders Memorial Cemetery, in Houston, as part of the SRT’s official observance of Texian Navy Day. The Texas Navy Association will also participate by laying a wreath to honor Thompson and the entire Republic of Texas Navy. The keynote speaker will be Harris County Judge Ed Emmett.
Commodore Thompson launched an audacious plan to raid Mexican ports to force the Mexican Navy to defend Mexico rather than attack Texan ports during the Texas Revolution. At the time, this plan was highly controversial, but now historians agree this put the world on notice that the Texas Navy was a small, but potent force.
Founders Memorial Cemetery is located at 1217 West Dallas at Valentine
Street. There is limited parking in the neigh-borhood immediately surrounding
the cemetery; therefore, people are encouraged to carpool. Further parking
instructions and other details about the Texas Navy and this year's celebration
of Texian Navy Day may be found on the SRT website (www.srttexas.org). You
will not want to miss this momentous tribute to Commodore Thompson and the
entire Republic of Texas Navy. The public is welcome and encouraged to attend.
For additional information, contact SRT Texas Navy Committee Chairman David
Hanover.
FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION CONTACT:
David
Hanover Texas Navy Committee Chairman, The Sons of the Republic of
Texas 903 509-2206This event is not rated.
October 3-5, 2008 - "Come and Take It" Days in Gonzales, Texas. In 1831 the Mexican government loaned the citizens of Gonzales a six-pound cannon as protection against the Indians. In September of 1835, as political unrest grew, Mexican officials at San Antonio de Bexar demanded the cannon be returned.
A corporal with five soldiers and an oxcart were first sent by Col. Ugartechea, Bexar military commander, to Gonzales. The corporal carried a request that the small reinforced cannon, a bronze six-pounder, be returned. Andrew Ponton refused, stalling for time, and the little cannon was buried. Next came Lieutenant Castaneda and 150 mounted soldiers to "take" the cannon. When the soldiers appeared on the west bank of the Guadalupe River, there were only 18 men in Gonzales, but these 'Old Eighteen' stood at the river in defiance, denied the Mexicans a crossing by hiding the ferry and sent out a call for volunteers to assist them. As the soldiers scouted the river for a place to cross, they moved upriver a short distance and camped for the night. There, early on Oct. 2, 1835, the colonists crossed the river with their cannon, surprising the troops and waving their hastily fashioned flag, which proclaimed "Come and Take It." Almost immediately the cannon fired, killing one of Castenada's men and scattering the rest, forcing them to retreat to San Antonio de Bexar. Thus was fired the shot that set off the struggle for Texas independence from Mexico. When the smoke cleared, the Mexican troops had taken off. The Texas Revolution had begun. Gonzales became known as "The Lexington of Texas", where the first shot was fired, and where the first Texas Army of Volunteers gathered. A few months after the first shot, men and boys from the region would gather in Gonzales, sending the only reinforcements ever received at the Alamo. More info at http://www.tamu.edu/ccbn/dewitt/batgonframe.htm
Each October, on the weekend nearest the October 2 anniversary, the citizens of Gonzales gather to celebrate their Texas heritage in a three-day festival called "Come & Take It." In downtown Gonzales there is a parade, craft & food booths, music and much, much more. After you've seen the parade, eaten and drank your fill and the music is getting to you, gather up the family and head out to the Gonzales Pioneer Village, a mile or so north of downtown. At the Pioneer Village, you can leisurely stroll amongst 19th and early 20th century homes and other buildings. While doing this you will receive a short history and insight to the life and daily routine of the 1835 Texans. You will witness various scenarios and a skirmish between the Mexican troops and the Texans. This not an actual re-enactment of the original clash, but will give you a better understanding of 1830's military tactics. On Saturday the Village is open from 12 noon till 5p.m. There is a small admission fee for entry, but it is well worth it. See you there. Reenactors: This is an open event sponsored by the Crossroads of Texas Living History Association (COTLHA) and the Gonzales Pioneer Village. All re-enactors are welcome provided they have the proper clothing, weapons, accouterments and camping gear for the 1836 Texas Revolution time period. (Clothing can be machine sewn, square toe boots of two or three piece leather or period shoes, modern eyeglasses accepted but discouraged in favor of period eyeglasses, period tobacco products.)
Friday: Oct. 3 Set Camp-Electricity is available at camp sites; bring an extension cord and a fan! Hide in tent when grounds are open. Check with Event Coordinator Dennis Riedesel at riedeseld@suddenlink.net for
camping spots! - i.e., you camp in the battle ground - you move! Supper is on your own; traditionally we eat at the Whataburger Drive In. However you can have a camp fire and cook any and all meals if you wish. You can bring a period sleeping bag and sleep in some of the buildings but the beds in the houses are off limits.
Saturday: Oct. 4
7:30-8:00 Traditionally we all go to the restaurant at the Livestock Auction Barn for breakfast.
9:00 Those who want to ride the flatbed trailer or march in the parade load up for the trip downtown.
10:30 Downtown Parade.
12:00 Eat
Lunch at the Festival Booths downtown. Those who participated in the parade get limited food and drink tickets - bring funds to purchase extra tickets.
1:00 Pioneer Village Opens to public. Living History presentations and demonstrations for the public.
3:00 Re-enactors start discussions and arguments on porch of the Gates House in favor of following positions: Federalist, Centeralist, Revolution, or Pacifist
3:15 Soldados take up positions-A few men on picket duty and the rest in reserve out of sight. Remember to perform a weapons safety check. No ram rods in the field or paper down the barrels!!!
3:30 Texian forces prepare for battle Weapons Safety Check-Flag raising-March out of town--Riedesel reads W. P. Smiths speech-- March to battle re-enactment positions.
4:00 Texian fire on Soldado's Picket line. Cease fire when Dr. Launcelot Smithers breaks from the Mexican Line to arrange a parley. Rest of the Mexican forces reinforce the picket line. Castaneda and Moore parley but break with no resolution to the argument. Moore shouts back, "If you want the cannon, come and take it!" When he clears the field, the cannon fires and both sides open fire. The Texian line advances and the Mexicans retire into the pasture.
End of battle 'til 5:00 Living history discussions and presentations with public.
5:00 Pioneer Village closes.
5:30/6:00 Chicken and Dumplings Dinner for Re-enactors. (This is one of the main reasons that all of us really come for!!)
6:00 Break camp if you have to leave. The rest of the evening is a period living history party time for re-enactors.
Sunday, Oct 5
7:30-8:00 Traditionally we all go back to the restaurant at the Livestock Auction Barn for breakfast.
9:00 Pioneer Village Opens. If you are leaving Sunday morning, you must have your camp struck and vehicle out of the Village before 9:00.
10:00 Pioneer Village's Memorial Ceremony for the Immortal 32. After this Memorial Ceremony, you can bring in your vehicle and strike camp.
IMPORTANT NOTES: Mosquitoes, red bugs (chiggers) and fire ants are usually a problem for campsites; wasps, spiders & scorpions are a concern in the buildings: be prepared.
If it is working, a shower facility is available--so bring soap and a towel.
Safety Check before battle. No ramrods in the field. Load from paper cartilages only. No paper down the barrel of any weapon. COTLHA Safety Rules are in effect!!
Directions to back gate and re-enactor parking:
Traveling South on US 183: Turn left on to Alt. US 90. Traveling North on US 183: Turn right on to Alt. US 90.
From Alt. US 90 Turn north on FM 794 toward Harwood. Follow highway to Pioneer Village Back Gate sign. Turn left and follow gravel road to gate.
CHECK ON PLANS TO REBUILD FORT WAUL!!
Contact Dennis Riedesel at riedeseld@suddenlink.net for more reenactor info and to RSVP, he wants to send out info packets. This event is rated 3.
October 4, 2008 - Boonville Days Living History Fair, sponsored by the Brazos Valley Museum of Natural History. From the museum: "Visit with our blacksmith, flint knapper, roaming oxen, and miscellaneous characters again; enjoy kids' crafts, basket making, a cast-iron cook-off, pottery demonstrations, archery and more from 10 am to 5 pm. Daytime events are FREE and open to the public.
Please let me know if you or any of your membership may be interested. We are also looking for other organizations that may be interested in participating."
We don't have all details of our event yet, but it will be SATURDAY, OCT. 4, 2008, 10am to 5pm AT THE BRAZOS VALLEY MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY IN BRYAN. Please do help us advertise this.
Unlike last year, when we had another event happening inside our museum, we plan to have most exhibitor indoors. Of course, if we get the Fanthor Inn stagecoach, it will be outdoors again, but probably close to our entrance.
Among our confirmed exhibitors will be: period surveying and Boonville history, flint knapping, chuckwagon, period weapons. If you have members in our area, we would be very interested in having them as volunteers. They do not have to stay the entire day, but it would be nice to just have more people in period dress exhibiting crafts or just milling around for our visitors. We do not have the funding (unless you can help with that too!) to pay participants, but as you know, 'we do it for the enjoyment'.
There is a midnight to 5 AM curfew, so overnight camping is not allowed (county rule). Bathrooms and water will be available; no dug fire pits (park rule) and above-ground fire pans may be allowed if a burn ban is not in effect then. For more info and registration contact Deborah Cowman or Henry Mayo.
This event is rated 3.
October 11, 2008 - Fall at the Alamo, sponsored by the DRT - Place: On the grounds of the Alamo - Time: Setup 8 AM, event 9AM to 5PM. Lunch will be provided and parking paid. This year, the contact person is Bill Barnett. He does not have e-mail so you will need to call him at 210-826-2629 (HM) or 210-885-2761 (CELL). ALL persons interested MUST be on our attendance sheet. Mr. Barnett has the attendance sheet and that's why you must call him if you or your group would like to attend this year. If you have any questions please let us know. The Alamo welcomes your participation. This event is rated 3½ .
October 24-25, 2008 - Texian Market Days, at the George Ranch just south of Richmond, Texas . Texian Market Days celebrates a landmark 25th Anniversary this year. This annual living history festival will be held Friday, October 24th (School Day) and Saturday, October 25th at the George Ranch Historical Park. The festival includes costumed staff and volunteers presenting vignettes of daily lives and heroic moments from the early days in Stephen F. Austin's colony (1830s) through the late years of the Great Depression and World War II (1940s), along with toe-tapping old-time tunes, an antique tractor show and pull (in collaboration with the Texas Antique Tractor Pull Association), arts and crafts from around the region at the Texian Market Place and so much more. Proceeds from Texian Market Days support the educational programs of the Fort Bend Museum Association, including the George Ranch Historical Park and the Fort Bend Museum.
This years’ Saturday night volunteer dinner will be a special salute to our 25th Anniversary. If you have any fun photos you want to contribute please contact Terri Stuart at 281-343-0218 or email tstuart@georgeranch.org
Sunday is available for re-enactment groups to use the park as an at-your-own-pace breakdown day or even a tactical/meeting day.
We are also seeking re-enactors willing to appear at our
Friday School Day. Last years event saw over 3,000 school kids on Friday alone.
This upcoming Texian Market Days (2008), we will be interpreting the year 1832 and the events that occurred in that year. Significantly will be the arrest of William Barrett Travis by John Davis Bradburn. Please email me if you would like to attend so I can send you the registration letter, but more
importantly a small sheet of significant events of the year 1832 . There will be a cavalry obstacle course set up for cavalry demonstrations at the Mexican camp. -J.R. Thomas.
Info letter and registration forms: Please contact J.R. Thomas at 281-343-0218 or email jrthomas@georgeranch.org for more details. Please register early for more promotion of your appearance. Food & drinks provided for volunteers at all sites in private areas.
Festival Hours: 9:00 am to 5:00 pm (Daily hours are the same)
Admission at the Gate: $10 adult ($8 if purchased by October 21); $5 child ($4 if purchased by October 21) Children 4 and younger and members of the Fort Bend Museum Association are free. Tickets go on sale September 1, 2008.
Craft vendors, please see the Vendor Information Package or e-mail Mitzi Jackson or call her at 281-342-1256.
For information about volunteering, please email J.R. Thomas or call him at 281-343-0218 x 278.
For information about setting up a food booth, please email Kristi Farquar.
For information about joining us as a sponsor of Texian Market Days, please email Diana Winebar or call her at 281-342-1256. This event is rated 3.
26th Annual Texian Market Days October 23 & 24, 2009
George Ranch Historical Park, 10215 FM 762,
October 25, 2008 - "Battle of Concepción" 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM. Admission is free. Near the old Spanish Mission of Concepción, this battle of the Texas Revolution was fought between the Mexican military garrisoned in town and the Texian rebels. This historical encampment and battle reenactment will be presented across from Mission Concepción at 919 Mission Road, adjacent to St. Peter/St. Joseph's Children's Home. Members of the San Antonio Living History Association, using authentic flintlock muskets, long rifles and cannon of the combatants, dress in uniforms and clothing of the 1830s. The field event includes a historic encampment with period demonstrations and life skills of the 1835-36 Texas Revolution. This San Antonio Living History Association-sponsored event welcomes and invites participation from other Texas Revolution reenactors and organizations who wish to register for this event. For more information contact SALHA through their web site. This event is rated 3.
November 1, 2008 - Stephen F. Austin's Birthday Celebration, Texas State Cemetery, Austin. The Moses Austin Chapter of the Sons of the Republic of Texas are hosting a memorial service with musket volley and cannon salute, to honor Stephen F. Austin's birthday. We will start at 10:00 a.m., and the program should last about 45 minutes, or a tiny bit more. A Children of the Republic of Texas group is hand making a wreath that they will lay at the tomb just before the rifle salute. From IH 35, go East on 7th street to Navasota. Turn left, cemetery main building will be up the block on your right, at the largest flagpole in East Austin. For info contact Bob Reese rreese8611@aolcom or 512-258-0599. This event is rated 3.
November 7-9, 2008 - Austin Town Historical Reenactment Imagine the sound of a thunderous cannon boom as the militia is called to muster and seeing Stephen F. Austin, Jane Long, and other historical characters living life as it was in their time.
Step back in time with the Brazoria County Historical Museum as it presents the annual Austin Town. A living history re-enactment, Austin Town recalls and celebrates the lives of those pioneers who settled Colonial Texas from 1821 to 1832. The fictitious "Austin Town" typically features character interpreters, demonstrators, sutlers, militia drill units, and period games. The purpose of the three-day event is not only to provide an educational and entertaining experience for Brazoria County residents, but also to attract visitors from outside the County who appreciate our area's wonderful history as well.
The Austin Town site is located approximately 3 miles off of State Highway 288 on Business 288, just north of Angleton, Texas. Public attendees: Admission Prices are $5 for adults and $3 for children under 12 and senior citizens over 65. Austin Town is open for school groups only on Friday. Austin Town is open to all visitors on Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and on Sunday from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. For more information, please contact the Program Coordinator via e-mail at programs@bchm.org or by telephone at (979) 864-1208. Registration forms are required and are expected to be online soon at BCHM's Website. This year BCHM will be trying a new online registration program for your convenience. This event is rated 3.
November 7-9, 2008 - Taking of the Presidio at Presidio La Bahia, Goliad. This event is a reenactment of the capture of La Bahia from the Mexican garrison by Texians under Collinsworth. (See Battle for Goliad, Oct 9 1835 above.) Preregistration is required (by Oct 1), and there will be a limit on how many artillery units will be allowed to participate. For more info - and there's a seven-page flyer / registration and liability form well worth looking at - contact Jim Lauderdale. This event is rated 3½.
November 8, 2008 Pioneer Day
at Jesse H. Jones Park & Nature Center, 20634 Kenswick Drive, Humble
Texas 77338- about 1 1/2 miles west of Hwy 59, off of FM 1960 (near North side
of Bush Intercontinental Airport of Houston). Calling all Texas Living
History re-enactors. We invite you to our 22nd annual Pioneer Day
celebration. This year's event will be held on Saturday, November 80 from 10:00
AM until 4:00 PM. Our park features a complete Pioneer homestead, woodworking
shop, blacksmith shop and Akokisa Indian village. We allow period camping on
both Friday and Saturday nights. All re-enactors will receive lunch on Saturday
and anyone in period dress is invited to our after event barn dance beginning at
7:00 PM.
This event is free to the public and draws between 1500 and 3000
people annually. This year's event will feature a Tex-Mex skirmish, historical
exhibits, arts and crafts, games and demonstrations of Pioneer skills. Our goal
is to teach Texas History and also give the public an idea of the everyday life
of the early inhabitants of Texas .
We are looking for exhibitors,
demonstrators, and participants for the skirmish.
The event guidelines and
registration form are on one Adobe .pdf document, click here. Pre-registration is required. A flyer
for the event is available on the park website www.hcp4.net/jones, also in .pdf.
For any and all
re-enactors wishing to stay Friday and/or Saturday night, sites for period
camping are available. We can accommodate several over-nighters in the park's
tents and homestead structures on a first come, first reserved basis. Families
are most welcome to stay as well. Modern restrooms and showers are located near
the homestead. We have plenty of hay, fire rings, firewood and atmosphere to
help make the stay enjoyable.
Please contact me for directions or with any
questions - Monte Parks at 281.446.8588 or email mparks@hcp4.net For more information on the
park, it's programs and people please visit: www.hcp4.net/jones or call us at 281.446.8588 - Monte Parks This event is rated 3½.
November 15-16, 2008 REGIMENTAL MILITIA DAY at Washington-on-the-Brazos. The event will be open to all who would like to participate. Dr. Bruce Winders, noted military author and Alamo curator, will serve as instructor.
Unlike most other events, participants are requested to attend as individuals instead of as unit. The reason for this requirement is the need to have an even distribution within the training battalion. Participants interested in serving as officers or noncommissioned officers are encouraged to contact Bruce Winders at bwinders@thealamo.org.
The purpose of the event is to advance the training and the experience of living history enthusiasts interested in the period of the Texas Revolution and Republic of Texas-both Texian and Soldados. The focus of the weekend will be the School of the Company and School of the Battalion. Scott's Tactics (both the single volume Abstract for militia and the three-volume set for regulars) and the Army Regulations will serve as the basis of instruction for the weekend. It is hoped that participants will learn valuable lessons that they can take back to their home units.
Participants will be encamped at Washington-on-the Brazos State Park. A company street will be established for those wishing to bring wedge tents. Firewood and meals will be provided. The registration fee for this event will be $25. This fee covers rations, a donation to the Washington on the Brazos Park Association and for those who submit their registration before 15 October, a copy of the 1830's Militia Abstract. Registration received after 15 October will not include the abstract. Registration can be made out and mailed to Scott McMahon at 724 Eagle Pass Bryan, TX 77802.
For info contact Scott McMahon, Park Ranger IV / Interpreter . This event is rated 3½.
December 6, 2008 - Battle of Béjar and the Capitulation of General Cos 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM at La Villita's Maverick Plaza. Admission is free. Reenactment of the 5-day storming of Béjar (old San Antonio) and the surrender ceremonies of the Mexican garrison by General Martín Perfecto de Cos to the Texian Federalist Army. The nearby Cos House in historic La Villita is the site of the December, 1835, capitulation that gave Texian troops control of Béjar and the Alamo fortress only three months before the famous 1836 siege and battle of the Alamo. This San Antonio Living History Association-sponsored event welcomes and invites participation from other Texas Revolution reenactors and organizations who wish to register for this event. For more information contact SALHA through their web site. This event is rated 3.
December 5-6, 12-13, 19-20, 2008 - Campfire Christmas, at the George Ranch just south of Richmond, Texas. The families of the George Ranch are delighted to invite you to a very special celebration of the holiday season. The evening will include a traditional Texas meal, wagon rides, caroling and campfires, and tours of the George Ranch homes. Travel through the park on a hay wagon, and visit the Jones Stock Farm, decked out in Christmas cheer 1830s-style, where the family will be gathered by candlelight to sing carols and tell stories. Visit the George home, where early 20th century holiday traditions will come to life. Finally, join the ranch's cowboys and their friends around the campfire to toast the season and its blessings. The George Ranch will be cozy and our welcome will be warm as you step into this unique holiday celebration. RESERVATIONS REQUIRED, and you are warned that tickets sell out quick. Tickets are available for purchase on line, and reservations are non-refundable.
For more information, please call 281-343-0218 or 281-545-9212 x 220 or visit www.georgeranch.org.
Note: The Campfire Christmas program takes about three hours. Please dress for a casual evening outdoors. Bring a blanket if you wish. In true Texas fashion, Campfire Christmas goes on regardless of the weather.
December 20-21, 2008 - Washington Town Survey at Washington-on-the-Brazos. In 1833 John Hall and a surveying crew lay out and marked what would become the town site of Washington. This event will recreate the surveying of the old town site and will include a small surveyor's camp and a representative "block" being surveyed and marked off. For those who have always been interested in learning a little about the early surveying and surveyors of Texas this is the event for you! For info contact Scott McMahon, Park Ranger IV / Interpreter . This event is rated 3½.
January 16-18, 2009 - Pilgrim's Camp and Swap Meet. This will be our 8th. This year we will be at the Washington on the Brazos State Historic Site. Camp fires will be at the mercy of any burn ban, but there is the Anson Jones kitchen we have used in the past for meal preparation and conviviality. As of 1/5/09: "We must have fire pans if we are to cook outside. We have the okay to use the kitchen also. No dug fire pits allowed." - Tubbs There are bathrooms. Like last year, we are stating that the public is invited, in the intent of making sure our invitation is not misconstrued as "members only". -- This year there will be an Artillery School for the 1830s period. This will be also open to those who are interested in safety around blackpowder artillery (i.e. infantry, cavalry reenactors) and those interested in the operation and tactics of period artillery (for example, historians and historical site staff). For those not camping, you can bring your own lunch and dinner; there will be enough of a break at lunch to go 10 miles to Navasota for a bite. If you are crewing cannon, the fee is $5 per person and includes take-home materials, and preregistration is required (Here's the link to the form in Word .doc); for those only observing (the "also interested" category) the school will be free. 1/13/09: Preregistration for participants is now closed as all gun crews are full. Observers can still preregister or register on Saturday. For more info on the school, contact George Rollow at webmaster@texianlegacy.com. -- When registering, please note in the email if your group is bringing one or more cannon, as there are some questions we'd like to ask... and we'd like to know how many and what size for space requirements.
For the ladies: "What Shall I Wear" or How to Dress for a Proper Impression.
Presenters Deborah Russell, Karen Verschoor, and Martha Graham are living historians and clothing and textile researchers for the 19c.
Deborah and Karen will cover the various areas of making a working impression. Topics that will be covered will be morning or bed wear, underpinnings, different types of working clothes, sun bonnets, caps, and appropriate fabrics. There will be many examples of fabrics and clothing for you to examine.
Mrs. Graham's program will cover Day wear. She has many 1830's style dresses, caps, and bonnets she has copied from authentic fashion plates. You will be able to browse through her collection of prints and clothing.
We hope that you will find all the topics to be of some assistance in planning your clothing for the next camp event or city/ceremony event.
We will start at 9:30 in the morning and then say 2:00 in the afternoon, about 2 hours per session.
--Deborah Russell
Folks from several different Texas Rev groups have joined together to organize this annual event with the goal of providing a friendly, safe, informative and fun place for "civilians" to explore their interest in living history and for "old hands" to pass on their knowledge and expertise. Camping will be available in two camps; one for modern camping and one for period camping. Camp setup will be on the 16th and we can tear down as late as Sunday afternoon the 18th. There will be an all-day opportunity for one-on-one discussions on the various levels of living history; the philosophy and goals of our avocation; weapons, clothing and tools of the period; historical research, and, above all else: safety issues. In order to provide an environment most conducive to learning, the event will be focused toward living historians, reënactors, those curious about our hobby, and those interested in possibly joining us. If you have been interested in this part of Texas history, or have wondered "how could I", then this is the event for you.
Ever wonder how this event got started? Click here.
In conjunction with the "Pilgrim's" Camp, the "old hands" are encouraged to bring their surplus gear, equipment, clothes and accouterments for an old fashioned trading session and swap meet. Be sure to bring those items you no longer have a need for.
If you're a living historian interested in helping lead one of the presentations or simply someone interested in getting involved in the wonderful world of early Texas, contact Jerry Tubbs (telephone 713-973-1136) or Charlie Yates (telephone 512-264-2355). A $10 camp fee will be charged for wood & we will have real bathrooms (which also means water will be available). Since period dress is not required (though certainly is encouraged), This event is rated 1.
January 17-18, 2009 - Militia Muster at Washington-on-the-Brazos. In 1836 David Crockett and four friends spent the night in Washington headed to Bexar to join the Texian forces gathered there. While in Washington the traveler's likely visited with recruits gathering in the area as a part of the ever growing Texas Army. With a little luck we may be visited again by Crockett and his companions! There is also a militia muster being planned for this weekend. Aside from all of this martial excitement there will also be a public auction and lottery for town lots in the new town of Washington! For info contact Scott McMahon, Park Ranger IV / Interpreter . This event is rated 3½.
February 7, 2009 - Texas Heritage Day at Jesse H. Jones Park & Nature Center, 20634 Kenswick Drive, Humble Texas 77338- about 1 1/2 miles west of Hwy 59, off of FM 1960 (near North side of Bush Intercontinental Airport of Houston). The event is open to the public from 10-4 and brings on average 2,500-4000 visitors. A big invitation goes out to any and all Texas history re-enactors to help bring this event together! Texas time-line: pre-historic, Spanish, French, Mexican, Texian; Colonization, Revolution, Republic, State, Civil War, Reconstruction; Texas up to 1880. For re-enactors wishing to stay Friday and/or Saturday night, sites for period camping are available. We can accommodate several over-nighters in the park's tents and homestead structures. Families are most welcome to stay as well. Modern restrooms and showers are located near campsites. We have plenty of hay, fire rings and firewood to help make the stay enjoyable. Just please pre-register with us first to make sure there is still room! Contact Monte Parks at 281.446.8588 or email mparks@hcp4.net For more information on the park, it's programs and people please visit: www.hcp4.net/jones or call 281.446.8588 -- Reenactors: Click here for forms and info at http://www.hcp4.net/jones/pdf/ReenactorGuidelinesRegistration.pdf This event is rated 3½.
February 20-22, 2009 - Garrison of Ft Defiance at Presidio La Bahia, Goliad. From Scott McMahon:
Gentlemen,
It is with great pleasure and excitement that I write with notice of an upcoming Texas War of Independence event. For some time now I have wanted to organize a garrison of Ft. Defiance event, recreating the time just prior to the final days of Fannin's command. I recently contacted the site and secured the weekend of February 20-22, 2009. The event will recreate the early days of Fannin's command at Goliad circa February 1836. I already have several interesting and unique scenarios in the planning stages and am confident this will be an event all will enjoy.
This will be an immersive type event with an eye towards progressive impressions. For the event we decided to portray the LaFayette Battalion which includes a good mix of "uniformed" and non uniformed units from Alabama, Kentucky, Tennessee, and other southern states. We will be recreating the daily life of the Goliad garrison and will not be participating in any skirmishes as we are portraying a period before the two opposing forces clashed. This will be a unique event, it will be a great prelude to the actual Fannin Massacre reenactment and will be a primer for the upcoming 175th Anniversary of the Siege and Fall of the Alamo being planned for 2011.
With the units being recreated and the scenarios in the planning, I think there will be a place for each and every one of you. More information will be forthcoming at www.TexianWarForIndependence.com but if you prefer to have information emailed directly to you please forward a note to my hotmail account noted (and linked) below. Please consider this event and if you have any questions or concerns feel free to contact me. Thank you for your time and consideration and I look forward to hearing from you soon!
Sincerely,
Scott McMahon
tejanodiablo@hotmail.com
979 218-7752
July '08 added notes: It is February of 1836, Col. James Walker Fannin has recently reorganized his command and is busy preparing the old Spanish presidio in Goliad for an expected attack from the Mexican army under General Urrea. Col. Fannin's men are occupied not only with reinforcing the walls of the presidio but also with daily drilling, guard duty, scouting patrols and all of the other activities associated with 19th century garrison life. All is abustle within the walls of the old presidio.
This will be an immersive type event with an eye towards progressive impressions. For the event we decided to portray the LaFayette Battalion which includes a good mix of "uniformed" and non-uniformed units from Alabama, Kentucky, Tennessee, and other southern states. Along with the units just listed we will also be portraying Cpt. Guerra's artillery crew known as the Tampico Company. The Tampico Company was made up of soldiers who left the Mexican Army at Tampico, just ahead of the Centralist troops. We will be recreating the daily life of the Goliad garrison and will not be participating in any skirmishes as we are portraying a period before the two opposing forces clashed. This will be a unique event, it will be a great prelude to the actual Fannin Massacre reenactment and will be a primer for the upcoming 175th Anniversary of the Siege and Fall of the Alamo being planned for 2011.
With the units being recreated and the scenarios in the planning, We think there will be a place for each and every one of you. More information will be forthcoming so keep checking back for updates. Please consider this event and if you have any questions or concerns feel free to contact us. Thank you for your time and consideration and we look forward to hearing from you soon! - Scott McMahon Updates and registration form (Now with online registration and PayPal!) at www.TexianWarForIndependence.com
- This event is rated 4 ½
February 27, 2009 - To the People of Texas and All Americans in The World: The Alamo Under Siege The Daughters of the Republic of Texas and the Alamo presents a unique educational opportunity on the evening of Friday, February 27, 2009. The public is invited to view a museum gallery presentation entitled To the People of Texas & All Americans in the World: The Alamo Under Siege. Visitors will be escorted through the grounds to view a series of historical vignettes designed to tell the story of the Siege of the Alamo. Each tour lasts approximately 45 minutes.
Due to the nature of the event, however, the audience will be limited to the first 500 who purchase tickets for this exciting event. The event will run from 6:30 PM until 10 PM with tours leaving every 10 minutes.
Individual ticket price is $9.00 presale and $10.00 on the day of the event. Tickets for the event can be purchased by calling 210-225-1391, ext. 28. Payment should be mailed to the following address:
The Alamo Under Siege
The Alamo
P. O. Box 2599
San Antonio, Texas 78299
For ticket information, contact Ernesto Rodriguez @ 210-225-1391, ext. 28; erodriguez@thealamo.org.
For press information, contact Dr. Bruce Winders @ 210-225-1391, ext. 27; bwinders@thealamo.org.
The public should consult the Alamo’s webpage, http://www.thealamo.org.
February 28, 2009 - - Glory at the Alamo at Alamo Plaza in San Antonio, Texas, 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Admission is free. Living history reënactments portray the beginning of the 13-day Alamo siege including a scene from a Fandango; the earlier-than-expected arrival of Santa Anna's Army of Operations Against Texas; early attempts to parley, an Alamo cannon shot in reply; and the reading of the famous Travis letter from the Alamo asking for aid. "Glory At The Alamo" programs also feature living history interactive demonstrations, period music, dance, food and novelty booths, historical crafts, old-time photographs, a sutler store and family fun for all. Also hosted is "This Hallowed Ground - Alamo Plaza", a historical walking tour of Alamo Plaza that is presented in collaboration with the William Barret Travis Chapter of the Sons of the Republic of Texas. This San Antonio Living History Association-sponsored event welcomes and invites participation from other Texas Revolution reenactors and organizations who wish to register for this event. For more information contact SALHA through their web site . This event is rated 3½ .
Feb 28 - March 1, 2009 - Texas Independence Day Festivities at Washington-on-the-Brazos, Texas. Raising of the Washington Guards: The Washington Guards were raised and mustered in here at Washington during March and April of 1836. There will be a recreation of the raising of the Washington Guards complete with inspections, speeches and all that accompanies the raising of troops! For info or an invitation to participate, contact Scott McMahon, Park Ranger IV / Interpreter . Scott can be reached at 936-878-2214 ext. 224. Mail is Scott McMahon - Park Ranger IV, Washington on the Brazos State Historic Site, P.O. Box 305, Washington, TX 77880. -New info 2/18/09- As you know Washington County is currently In a Burn Ban. The County Commissioners have allowed an exemption for reenactment groups on the 27th, 28th and March 1st during the Texas Independence Day Celebration. Each fire must be attended at all times and a means of dousing the fire immediately needs to be available at each camp fire (either a bucket of water or fire extinguisher) and in plain view. Fires need to be doused overnight. Should wind conditions be such that fires could cause a danger (sustained 15 mph or greater) fires will not be allowed. All fires must have a barrier between the fire and the ground, digging fire pits and/or the placement of fires directly on the ground, regardless of previous condition, is not allowed. WOB has designated Scott McMahon site safety officer for the event. This event is rated 3½.
February 28 - March 7, 2009 - Texas Independence Day Celebrations, statewide. Celebrate Texas encourages everyone to help with celebrations in their hometown. See their website.
March 2, 2009 - Texas Independence Day Memorial Service, Texas State Cemetery, Austin, at 9 AM. From IH 35, go East on 7th street to Navasota. Turn left, cemetery main building will be up the block on your right, at the largest flagpole in East Austin. Memorial service and musket volley to honor the Great State of Texas, and the Men and Women who made her so. Keynote Speaker: Gonzalo Barrientos. This event will be held rain or shine.
March 6, 2007 - Dawn at the Alamo Memorial 6:00 AM - 7:00 AM at Alamo Plaza in San Antonio,Texas. SALHA members, joined by re-enactors from across the U.S., represent both armies and pay homage in recognition of the great sacrifices made on both sides of the Alamo conflict. Thirteen candles are lit to symbolize the 13-day Alamo siege. The fall of the Alamo is remembered with a historical narrative, readings of eyewitness accounts, a reconciliation peace prayer, in both English and Spanish, flintlock musket volley salutes, and the placement of commemorative wreathes complete the solemn event. This free hour-long event begins during the Alamo battle hour that begins in darkness and ends in early morning light. Participation with wreaths is welcomed from Alamo descendants, historical organizations, students and other visitors. This San Antonio Living History Association-sponsored event welcomes and invites participation from other Texas Revolution reenactors and organizations who wish to register for this event. For more information contact SALHA through their web site. Dutch treat breakfast at the Menger Hotel follows. This event is rated 3½.
March 7-8, 2009 - "Remembering the Alamo" Weekend at Alamo Plaza in San Antonio, Texas, from 10 AM to 5 PM Saturday, and Noon to 5 PM Sunday. Admission is free. For God and Texas; Dios y Libertad - FREE in Alamo Plaza. This event is a dramatization of the events concening the final two days(March 5 and 6, 1836) of the 13 day Alamo siege by General Santa Anna's Army of Operations, played out in Alamo Plaza. And, a special added vignette, the arrival of the Gonzales Thirty-two. This San Antonio Living History Association-sponsored event welcomes and invites participation from other Texas Revolution reenactors and organizations who wish to register for this event. For more information contact SALHA through their web site. This event is rated 3.
March 8, 2009 - Alamo Defenders Memorial Service, Texas State Capitol grounds, Congress Ave. and 11th Street, Austin. Memorial service and musket volley to honor the defenders of the Alamo. 2 PM. Volley participants: Safety check is at 1:30 PM. Must be at safety check to participate in volley. Loading will be from cartridges (no horns or flasks). Bring enough cartridges for 3 shots. RSVP Jim Price. This event is rated 3.
March 27-29, 2009 - The Goliad Massacre at Presidio La Bahía, Goliad, Texas. Annual Goliad Massacre - Fort Defiance Living History Program. A recreation of the occupation of the fort by Col. Fannin and the Goliad Massacre. The only event of its kind in the State of Texas. Saturday, 9 A.M. to 5 P.M. Candlelight Tours 7 P.M. to 9 P. M. Sunday, following the Massacre Reenactment at 10:00 A.M., there will be a memorial service and a pilgrimage to the Fannin Memorial. This event is sponsored by the Presidio La Bahía and the Crossroads of Texas Living History Association. For guidelines for clothing, attendance information, timetable of events, Reënactor/Living Historian information and the most recent info, check out the COTLHA web site www.cotlha.com. If you are not sure about clothing and such, check the end of the COTLHA bylaws which has an appendix with guidelines. . More questions? CONTACTS: Steve Trowbridge , 307 Taos, Victoria, TX 77904 or Dave Vickers , P. O. Box 942, Sinton, TX 78387. Presidio Calendar: http://www.presidiolabahia.org/calendar.htm This event is rated 3½.
April, 2009 - Ladies' 19th Century Conference was to have been held at Ft. Martin Scott, Fredericksburg. Time is here for the 19th Century Ladies' Conference. 2009 update: Due to the current situation at Ft Martin Scott (it is not staffed, as of last word)the Ladies' Conference this year will be held at another venue. This forces Deb to make it "invitation only". For details email Deborah Russell at russhill@beecreek.net. This event is rated 3½.
April 4, 2009 - History Faire and Culture Fest sponsored by Tejeda Middle School, San Antonio, Texas. 10am - 4pm. Free admission, and the event will go rain or shine. This event covers from Vikings to WWII, and is a community, family style event that draws quite a crowd. This is a great event to introduce people to "living history". The timeline history reenactment groups and demonstrations will be on History Hill, behind the school. Groups and periods include the Buffalo Soldiers, SCA, Muskets of the Crown, WWII, Texas Rev and many more. A stage will be set up for dance and cultural performance groups. Musical groups include Scots, Mexican, and various ethnic groups. ( MS students learn Social Studies as opposed to History ). Student groups will sell handmade items, food and drinks, and run some games. Picnics are welcomed. If anyone knows of any one or group who would be interested in participating please put them get in touch with one of these fine people: Debora Marzec or Randy Guzman for registration. Directions available on the school site. This event is rated 3½.
April 4, 2009 - Runaway Scrape,at the George Ranch . One and all are invited to the Annual Runaway Scrape at the George Ranch Saturday, April 4th. Last year we had a record turnout and a lot of the public have expressed interest in attending. The Scrape will interpret the approach of Santa Anna’s army through the area and the ensuing panic that it causes. If you want to arrive Friday afternoon to set up your lodge, that is perfectly fine but preferably after 4 p.m. If you need to set up earlier, please let me know. Please email J.R. Thomas if you are able to attend and to get a
registration form (registration by email available this year).
Check In Time: 9 a.m., Weapons Safety Check at 9:30 a.m.
Reenactments at 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. with lunch at 12:30 provided by the George Ranch.
Park Closes at 5 p.m.
I look forward to seeing everyone soon.
J.R. Thomas 1830's Site Lead This event is rated 3½.
April 25, 2009 - San Jacinto Battle Reënactment The events will be at the reflecting pool site with the large berm so the spectators have "stadium seating". In addition to the Battle Re-enactment at 3:30 there will be an all day Festival with crafts, demonstrations, entertainment and food. Living history demonstrations will be at the Texian Army camp, Mexican Army camp and the Run-a-way (Civilian) camp as well as at the Festival. Come and spend the day at San Jacinto, where Texas Won its Independence. Contact Jerry Tubbs for the battle re-enactment, this is an invitation-only, pre-registered only
event . Safety meetings (especially the 9 AM) and weapons inspections are mandatory for participation - ABSOLUTELY NO "WALK-ONS", AND NO "DAY-OF" REGISTRATIONS.. This reenactment includes Hollywood-grade pyrotechnics.... when the cannons go boom, so does the target. Teachers and Public: contact Dianne Powell for the Festival or visit the web site at http://EarlyTexasHistory.com/SanJacinto. Sutlers, food vendors, and lots to see & do for the public.
Reenactors note 2/18: To All San Jacinto Volunteers:
Due to the shift in economy, all the San Jacinto invitations and registration forms are being sent electronically. The forms can be downloaded at http://www.sanjacintovolunteers.org/forms/. It is important that you read the invitation carefully and thoroughly as there is a lot of new information and changes to camp personnel.
When filling out the registration and waiver, you may leave the date on the waiver blank or you may put the date of April 25. It is important that they be returned no later than April 10, 2009 to erlindatubbs@gmail.com or send it by mail to:
Linda Tubbs
10970 Fire Creek Dr
Houston, TX 77043
If you know of anyone who has changed their e-mail address please let me know. If you have any other questions, please email me. Thank you very much.
Linda Tubbs
This event is rated 3½.
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