It was not as densely packed as the WWII or Celtic events. However, it was nicely represented with both British and Patriot reenactors and some Hessian soldiers. All the reenactors are very well versed in the time period they represent.
We strolled through a booth selling herbs and tinctures that would have been used in the 18th century. Egee just had to have a Jacob's Ladder toy. Little Man wanted a wooden toy tomahawk.
We listened to a British soldier describe life in the British army. The differences between a ranking officer versus the common soldier. The small tent that housed five soldiers compared to the large tents with real furniture in the officer's tent.
We learned that General Cornwallis ordered the burning of the 'train' to chase General Greene through North Carolina. The officers did not appreciate the burning of their furniture, tents, wagons, etc.
We discovered the difference between a light infantry man and heavy infantry man. No, size was not it. We found out that the musket could be loaded five to eight times a minute compared to the American Long Rifle loading time of one round every minute and a half to two minutes. So, the British had an upper hand at fire power.
The cannons were vital in the war and we learned about the different sizes of cannon balls. We learned how they were lobbed at the opposing forces and then the cannons switched to buck and ball loads as the armies advanced to closer range. Two hundred and fifty balls could be launched at the enemy in one of the buck and ball shots.
Cannon balls weren't the only projectiles. The mortar launched bombs that could be used to breach forts or encampments of men. We learned how the bombs were lit in the mortar and how each fuse and packing of the bomb was slightly different.
We watched a blacksmith at work. (Even though his forge was not of the period. He has to use a portable one for the event.) This always fascinates Little Man.
We looked at the craftsmanship of a leather worker. He showed us a suede bowl and bucket and told us how they worked. He also demonstrated a gun tool that many soldiers would have used. Then he allowed the children to hold his long rifle. The children were surprised at how heavy it was.
We looked at the farm animals and petted them. Of course, I heard chimes of I wish we had....
Finally, we witnessed the battle of the day. Muskets and rifles fired and the Battle of Charlotte was taken over by the British troops.
We had a great time even though the weather was hot and humid. Can't wait for the next Latta event!
