We were very pleased to see everyone again at the 2nd annual Society Christmas Dinner party.  Fare included turkey, ham, and various side-dishes.  Once the fun was over, serious business had to be addressed.  Mr. Green brought a plum pudding, also known as "Who's a Man Here?"  If this doesn't put hair on your hat, nothing will.  The survivors were very glad to partake of other desserts and merry-making afterwards.  Unfortunately, modern technology failed us (the camera died) and, at present, there are no pictures to share.  Nevertheless, everyone had a very nice time and we look forward to an eventful, prosperous new year ahead.

The 35th participated in the night-time Christmas parade in Hawthorne sponsored by the Chamber of Commerce.  It was to combine the Christmas parade with the tree lighting at the Municpal Building.  We had a 2' x 8' banner printed for this occasion and put it to good use with a small color guard.

The New-York Historical Society in Manhattan contacted me to see if we could provide British Revolutionary War reenactors at an exhibit being held there. After speaking with Ms. Angie Sadhu and making arrangements, the 35th Regiment marked its calendar for November 17th, 2007.

The event itself was an exhibit and living history day to commemorate Washington and Lafayette's close relationship during the American Revolution and Lafayette's return to America nearly 50 years after the Declaration of Independence was signed. As the last surviving general in the Continental Army, his visit was celebrated in the early American republic on a national level by jubilant crowds wherever he went. He journeyed from 1824-1825 throughout the former colonies and many of the places where he had played a role in the Revolutionary War. The New-York Historical Society wanted to bring this to life for visitors.

Living historians added a new dimension to the museum already in place. The American Historical Theatre presented General Washington and the Marquis de Lafayette as key interpreters to the public. Mr. Jack Sherry as Benjamin Franklin was also on hand to meet and greet visitors and tourists coming to see the attraction. The quality of these gentlemen is unmatched for depth and ability.

Guarding the Historical Society, patrolling the halls, or engaging the public were reenactors portraying the soldiers of the American Revolution. The Continental Army was represented by the 2nd New Jersey, the British army by the 35th Regiment of Foot, and the French by Regiment Bourbonnais-all New Jersey-based units.

The program itself got underway at 9:00 and continued until 5:00. Speaking from a personal perspective, it was one of the most fascinating experiences as we had a continuous flow of visitors coming in through the day. We joked, when on guard duty on the great stoop of the Historical Society that we must have had our pictures taken hundreds of times (especially since so many "every day electronics" have cameras in them).

As an aside, New York is a place where you never really know what to expect and shouldn't be surprised by anything. One of the most special moments while outside was this: at one point while our ladies and gentlemen we were outside drawing in new visitors, talking with dozens of people, a limousine pulled up. Out came a photographer, followed by a young man in a tuxedo and his new bride in her white wedding dress. They had just come from St. Patrick's Cathedral and were passing by. They caught sight of us, however, and could not resist. We are happy to grace the pages of that new couple's wedding album and wish them long happy lives together.

We were treated wonderfully by the staff at the New-York Historical Society and we did meet a vast array of people as only Manhattan could muster. The locals, the foreigners, the tourists, the history buffs, and the history baffled came by to learn about America's "French Founding Father" and the legacy of the Marquis de Lafayette. Lafayette himself was an extraordinary man who lived through personal triumph and tragedy as well as two very sanguine revolutions. He is immortalized forever as a symbol of Franco-American friendship and a noble model of sacrifice, dignity, and republican virtue.

Dey Mansion's annual Fall encampment was saturated by rain the first day, but on Sunday a stronger showing of people took advantage of the nice weather.  The 35th used it as a chance to practice some drilling, singing, vendor-patronizing, and merry-making.  Our work was interrupted by a body of militiamen coming from the far side of the mansion intent on mischief.  We grouped with the 42nd Royal Highland Regiment and loyalists to give them a proper thrashing for their lack of politeness.  Our Scottish captain lead our platoon of about 10 against 15 Americans lead by a scurrilous Frenchman who was "training" them.  Musketry is an acquired taste, so we happily treated our opponents to a good dose of it before being issued an order to launch a bayonet charge.  Unfortunately, the Americans had a loaded volley waiting and reduced the better part of the platoon to a third of its original strength.  Private Maxfield and myself decided upon a "strategic re-positioning" far away from the American lines and continued to harass them until the situation was untenable.  Nec Aspera Terrent, the crowd was pleased. 

Fort Montgomery was revisited this year by the 35th and we had a jolly good time.  We were a little surprised to find some Zouaves there but, it's all in fun.  Later we learned that they were asked to attend and show the progression of the 5th NY Regiment, one of the units which participated in the battle itself.  The day's events started off with a cannonade by George, the 32 pounder monster that overlooks the Hudson River.  As to the tactical scenario itself, the British force was smaller than the Americans, as per usual.  The British originally landed their soldiers near the fort and were able to capture it from the Americans who only had 300 soldiers to man it.  The reenactment was to follow a similar design, albeit on a smaller scale.  The first section of the British force was brought up from the Hudson, made up largely of Loyalists but lead by one of the 35th's men.  The Americans, in the meantime, tried to hold off the advance, but were slowly pushed up the steep hill behind them.  It was there that the rest of the British force was waiting.  The Americans regrouped at the top of the hill, but were met with an assault of grenadiers on their right.  Once they had been pushed back, the first section joined with the second and the united British-Loyalist contingent forced the surrender of the fort.  Success to His Majesty's Arms once again!

The 1st C.S. Regulars participated in a living history day hosted by the Garretson Farm and Forge.  A British observation was also requested, so the 35th made a showing in Victorian attire at this quaint bit of early American culture, tucked away in the modern world of suburbia.  While it was primarily a Civil War afternoon event, we were all treated to a wonderful barbeque picnic at the end.  They are considering hosting a Revolutionary War living history in 2008 so we hope to visit again as our "other selves."

Click Here for Report.

This was the 35th's first skirmish falling out as a coherent unit.  With three grenadiers on the field, originally we were the only Crown forces at this small but fun dog and pony show.  We were joined by insta-Loyalists from the enemy militia and policed the crowd, in a sense, particularly when the upstart elements took to slandering His Majesty King George III.  The crisis was averted, however, and we enjoyed a lunch provided by the Presbyterian Church.  Following this, a small tactical demo was arranged for the public.  The narrow field which we had to work with in the highly urban setting provided some interesting challenges--particularly so when outnumbered as well.  Nevertheless, the British and Loyalists acquitted themselves well.  We put up a stiff, sound fight, though eventually had to concede to the Americans.  At the end of this, the reenactors marched off into the cemetery for a ceremony honoring the Revolutionary War soldiers and other figures buried there.

This meeting consisted of John V.V., Sharon A., Tony S., Jim B., and Tina I.  An authenticity guide for the grenadier contingent was distributed, matters of guiding the unit's future discussed, and reports from the Ladies Committee received.  At the conclusion of the meeting, a short drill was held as we were joined, too, by Paul Doll.

A small detachment of the 35th Grenadiers fell in with the 1st N.J.V. loyalists.  The weather was considerably better than the original battlefield conditions, being neither too hot nor too humid.  The British force was arrayed against the colonial rebels and the two sides put up a stiff resistance to one another amid the confusion and chaos of the combat.  Eventually, however, the Americans slowly gained the upper hand and forced the British to withdraw from the field with honor.

The Royal Sussex observed on behalf of the Union army.  Lt. Stuffington and Pte. Maxfield were accompanied by Miss DeWitte and strolled through the northern camp as well as gaining entry to the Confederates.  It was a simple and easy day, most consisting of drills and merry-making, although the peace was briefly disturbed by a rebel raid which nearly imperilled our heroic Britons.

The 35th was invited to attend the first Victorian weekend at Acorn Hall in Morristown, N.J. by Mick Burgess.  While almost entirely a civilian occasion, a military mess (that is, dining area) was set up in the backyard of the historic house which was open for tours throughout the weekend.  Vendors had established themselves on the front lawn and tea and cookies abounded.  A croquet game had been set up in the back as well and the affair was a very relaxed one with very pleasant weather.  On Sunday the event held a women's fashion show, showing styles from the 1830s through the 1910s.  For the Society, we had the chance to use our camp stove (named Samson by our ladies) and cook that classic army food: beans.

Horse Guards
Gen. Sir George Goldie, K.C.B.
35th Reg't of Foot
8 June 1862, Cross Keys, Virginia*
[28 April 2007]

My Lords and Gentlemen,

It was my good fortune to find the camp of the Confederate States of America and make my acquaintance with the commanding officer, General B. Boyle, and his staff including the Surgeon-General, battalion commander Lt. Col. D. Goliger and Sgt. A. Green of the 1st Confederate State Regulars. Overall, I found the disposition of the Confederate men to be optimistic and cheery, scruffy-looking chaps. They lacked uniformity quite badly, though what they lacked in appearance, they made up for in enthusiasm and spirit. The officers, being gentlemen, were cordial and hospitable. Quite frequently, they expressed a desire to know when Her Majesty would be sending aid in the form of naval squadrons and regiments. I may imagine that they hope for British intervention more ardently than previously supposed. They informed me that American cotton was vitally important to Great Britain and we should immediately send a force to break the blockade, else textiles become too expensive for common consumption. I refrained from mentioning the vast cotton imports which come from India and Egypt, for it was not my desire to either raise their hopes or dash them.

I was able to observe the camp of the United States of America from a distance and saw them on parade. Their numbers were vastly in excess of those of the Confederates and it was already common knowledge amongst the officers and men. They seemed used to being outnumbered, they said, and proclaimed that they could retreat as fast as the Yankees could charge. A curious choice of words.

Sgt. Green entreated me to observe their drilling and skirmishing methods on parade. Their drill is different from ours. For example, when calling to "Shoulder Arms" they bring their muskets, the majority of which being our own Enfields, to the Advance. That was the only particular difference which I found worth taking note of, as otherwise they adhere to rather conventional linear tactics and skirmishing methods. Indeed, I was surprised, expecting the American armies to be as rustic as my great-grandfather who served in America ninety years ago, once told to be in family stories. They were rustic, but I did not note any great amount of "behind rocks and trees" business. This is a gentleman's war and I dare say because it is a gentleman's war, the casualties suffered were particularly high, owing that men, rather than the aforementioned rocks and trees, absorbed the enemy musket balls.

As the Confederate army drew up its lines to prepare to move upon the Federal positions, an officer whom I could not see, delivered a particularly fiery speech. He began with a reading from the Declaration of Independence, denounced "King Abraham", reminded those gathered that none present voted for him to be president, and vowed to expel the foreign armies from their native soil and defend the principles and virtues Mr. Washington, a Virginian, had fought for and so on. Nevertheless, the officers remained particularly cordial towards me and had only the kindest of things to say about Her Majesty and the empire, mentioning cotton from time to time.

The force had moved out less than a mile from camp into a heavily wooded area via a muddy path, as the day before it had rained rather heavily. It was fortunate, however, that the weather was good this day, the temperature mild at about 68 degrees Fahrenheit, the sun shining and drying out the ground. Desiring to remain as out-of-the-way as possible while still being able to observe the troop movements, I spent much of the time either with General Boyle or Lt. Col. Goliger except on those occasions in which the firefight grew too intense as to put myself unnecessarily at risk.

I was surprised to see a particularly great number of Irish on both sides, the majority being with the North. I saw the harp flag flying along with the American colours which seemed strange and out of place as they were fighting the separatists.

The general was very busy as dispatch riders and couriers were bringing information to him and he was coordinating a battle which, for the most part, could not be seen. This changed, however, when I perchanced to see the Confederate forces moving back down the road towards the rallying point and Lt. Goliger's command being pushed back from the ridge. Another unit formed up to the left in the clearing as the whole force in general began to be pushed back. I chanced to see for the first time, the Union forces streaming out of the woods, many of them Zouave soldiers, and down the road as well. The numerically superior Union managed to gain both flanks of the Confederate force, causing great concern and confusion indeed. I am lucky to have escaped unharmed, as it proved rather difficult to stay with the staff which was constantly in motion during this fighting retreat. I believe the Regulars, identified by their new silk Colours, and its wing managed to gain the ground to our left, where the bulk of the Union forces were to be found, and soon the Confederates were able to enter into a much larger clearing of high yellowed grass, deploying in line.

The crushing weight of the Northern numbers began to take its toll and I was nearly run over by Rebels who broke ranks and had run off. This prompted some of the non-commissioned officers to produce batons in which were lodged with bits of metal to beat any more deserters. The higher ranking officers began to lose their confidence and the Rebel force was soon wavering under the intense enemy fire which grew increasingly near to my own person, fortunately to no effect. This particular battle soon came to a close with the Union scoring a sound victory. I had the opportunity of seeing the Union staff officers ride towards the Confederate position, meeting with the Rebel officers. Amongst those in blue was a certain lieutenant who asked, upon seeing me, "What's this funny lookin' feller doin' here?" A diplomatic incident was averted when he promptly returned to his own duties.

In the meantime, the Confederate army was withdrawing along the river, sandwiched betwixt it and the thick woods on the right. It was a woefully precarious position to be in and caused me to expect the Northern forces to appear at any moment. It was not to be, however, until later. The Confederates column deployed into lines and I heard the thunder of cannon fire as we drew closer towards a very large clearing against the main road and the river to the left. The Rebels were hotly engaged as they fought their way out of the woods and assumed battle lines across the width of the field parallel to the river, where the cavalry were in wait. As I stepped out of the woods and the smoke grew thin enough to see through, I was met with a veritable sea of dark blue soldiers and knew that there would simply be a repeat of what had happened earlier.

The Confederate force fared much better during the opening of this second battle, managing to gain ground initially, as the Federal army was deploying from the woods directly opposite. Indeed, the terrain itself was not conducive to the use of the cavalry, the right being blocked, the left too thickly wooded to pass through, and the infantry in the centre. Rather than waste the cavalry in a full-frontal assault, they instead remained in reserve throughout the engagement. A number of Union casualties littered the ground, many of them, I suspect, once having been Fenians as well, but I was unable to confirm the regiments to which these dead soldiers belonged. Once the Federal lines were in place their numbers and the terrain played to their favour. The Confederate "Thin Grey Line" was punched through with holes, many having either run off or been cut down by musket fire, and the remnants of the Confederate force launching into a gallant, bold, if not ill-fated charge. They were met with a volley and cut down in tremendous numbers. Those who survived retreated in good order. Afterwards, many of the men asked if they could "give it to them again" in spite of the hopelessness of the situation. With such spirit and audacity, they are rather like Englishmen, and, indeed, most of them are.

Meeting with the generals remaining and having the good fortune to find Lt. Col. Goliger still alive, though Sgt. Green had the misfortune of a musket ball through the head, as I found him amongst his men, face towards the enemy. The officers regretted that things had not turned out as favourably as hoped on this occasion, but that there were future battles to be fought and that this defeat was a rarity in the present conflict. Morale remained high and Union casualties were severe.

I would say, given the conditions, numbers and terrain as key factors for influencing the battle itself, the result was as expected. The officers led well and the men did their duty to the last extremity, though the honour of the victory was clearly in the hands of the Union army and its capable officers.

Humbly submitted,

Lt. John A. Stuffington
35th Royal Sussex Reg't

*Historical Note: Battle of Cross Keys was actually a Confederate victory, their casualties, proportionally, having been much less than at this reenactment. I understand the Sunday battle was to be a Union defeat, to afford each side their own 'day of victory' I suppose. The Northerners outnumbered the Southerners approximately 2:3 or perhaps slightly more. This, I believe, and the confusion resulting from the difficult terrain, were the ultimate factors which decided the Union victory Saturday.

Once again, Pte. Maxfield was able to get use of the Proprietary House for a living history event.  Many--most--of the Royal Sussex Regimental Society was able to attend in various outfits for the time periods.  The weather was a bit drizzly and chilly, preventing the original idea of outside displays.  This was a disappointment to me, personally, because I had hoped to try out the Society's new cooking stove.  It resembles a Soyer Stove in some regards because it is cylindrical and black with a smoke-stack, but it stayed in its box for this occasion.  Instead, the event itself was held inside.  The main floor and basement were used.  The main floor was for "old" people and the downstairs the "modern" time--WWI, WWII, Vietnam, etc.  The Vietnam MPs also brought a Jeep with them playing 60's tunes.  But inside, the largest display by far was the Roman one.  The Legion XXIV M.A. brought a ballista and took up a few tables with their mammoth display.  Also in that room was Paul Jicha, our resident Boer Commando, for the NJ Militia Rev. War.  Jim Bowen also turned out as a 35th man for the first time in the grenadier kit, as the 35th appeared when they occupied Perth Amboy during the American Revolution.  Our John Arrington (Kish) came in his Hessian uniform and John Sr. as a WWII German.  Ancestor of the Hessian, no doubt.  In the other room, a sizable Civil War display was to be found from the Louisiana Tigers, the Spanish-American War, and, of course, the British Empire of the 1880s.  Tony, who was portraying US WWI, lead the event and we had a firing of mixed muskets and rifles in salute to the serving allies abroad.  We also talked with the visitors who came, not as many as anticipated due to the weather and Palm Sunday, and otherwise had a very nice time of it.  Vivian was able to come for a stay and we were also visited by another Briton, Mick, of a yeomanry regiment in his very well preserved, original 1870's uniform.

Our own Pte. Maxfield is a trustee at the Proprietary House and was able to have an event there.  The 35th Royal Sussex contingent was at nearly full strength!  We were also joined by Dan Peer (Cameron Highlanders) and Tom Kolb of the 24th Reg't of Foot.  The morning and afternoon was spent very well with so many of our friends together.  The house itself generated quite a number of visitors who took the tours which keep it in operation.  We were able to host the largest display so far, with the three societies' putting out their kits, weaponry, pictures, and other articles for viewing and discussion.  We were able to present the attire and equipment of the British soldier from 1879-1902 and had a jolly good time in the process.  Breakfast and lunch were provided and very little of it remained afterwards--which means there was a lot of energy buzzing about that day.  Paul and Kate were so good as to let us use their pictures on the website.  They are viewable in the Photo Gallery.  Thanks, once again, to everyone who came to support the house and the event.

St. Anthony's School had a speaker from the Society come to give some discussions.  The first was to the 6th grade, picking up on the phrase "The Sun Never Sets on the British Empire."  The talk was about 50 minutes on colonialism and its impacts in the present day.  After a lunch, graciously provided by the teacher, the 7th grade was spoken to about the British soldiers' experience in the American Revolution.  The presentation included a weapons and uniform display to go along with the talk as well.

We were fortunate to have wonderful company and entertainment throughout the evening.  A bit of flaming pudding, story-telling, and delicious food made it a delightful experience for everyone who attended!

Dey Mansion, once Washington's Headquarters, often hosts living histories and skirmishes, but this time the event was more for those with thespian inclinations.  The weather had been cold and rainy in the morning and afternoon, but by the evening, it was very cold and windy and remained so for the rest of the night.  The "Haunt" was a live-action play incorporated with two tours in the Mansion and on the grounds itself, one at 8pm, the other at 10pm.  The story was surprisingly complex and there was a very wide diversity of character elements to be seen.  The British officer was represented by the 35th Grenadiers, supported by fellow Grenadier Kish and some especially intimidating colonial support.  The story was this, as seen by the spectators on the tour: Jane Dey's 17th birthday was being celebrated with dancing and music in the main hall of the Mansion when some secret documents relating to Washington's spy network was passed onto Lizzie, played by the tour's own director.  The objective was to get these documents to the proper authorities elsewhere.  However, the King's men were vaguely aware of conspiratorial activities and arrested Colonel Dey, pulling him right out of his home in the midst of his daughter's party.  Col. Dey's cook, distraught to learn payment would be delayed upon her master's arrest, concocted a plan to rescue him.  Lizzie, on her way to deliver the documents, was beset by highwaymen (NJ historical highwayman Claudius Smith, no less) and accosted.  When rivalries among the highwaymen saw to their own quarreling, Lizzie was able make her way out.  Meanwhile, Mr. Kish was standing guard over the militia colonel, bound and held in a tent, when Jane Dey appeared and plead for her father's release.  Distracted, Col. Dey was "sprung" without notice, but the noise from Jane had roused the attention of the British superior (yours truly).  Demanding to see the prisoner, it was with shock and horror we discovered he had escaped.  Kish was threatened with hanging unless the prisoner was discovered and set off in pursuit.  Lizzie continued on her peril-fraught journey towards the tavern where she was to deliver the secret letters, eventually caught up to again by the villainous highwaymen who captured her.  Meandering down the road came Mr. Bartholomew, a Continental regular, with his family.  Sensing that all was not well, he confronted the highwaymen who scattered and ran, only to fall before the crack aim of he and his son's musketry.  Thus liberated, Lizzie carried on (the tour still following) and happened to find the Dey's cook en route to the tavern.  An examination of the papers showed that, if properly folded, a map of the spy network would be revealed.  From here on, Lizzie was able to deliver the dispatches to the tavern without further incident.  (Meanwhile, a court-martial acquitted Mr. Kish on the grounds that he assisted in the elimination of local highwaymen.)  As said earlier, this performance was done twice Saturday night, the first tour being rather large, but the 10pm tour about twice the size.  We retired for an evening of bawdy music and camaradery before packing up and heading home.

Fort Montgomery wanted to have a battle reenactment and ceremony to dedicate their brand new visitor centre.  The call went out to reenactors and the 35th Grenadiers reported.  We arrived after some short delays but hadn't missed anything yet.  Mme. Sharon came along with us to take pictures and see the event from a spectator's position.  The gallant Major Maxwell, a fine Scotsman, was going to be commanding the English troops, and presented us with a thorough plan for defeating the numerically superior Americans.  Our force was eventually expanded from the small British cadre to include loyalists and a Hessian as well, but the Americans were in possession of artillery.  Artillery was a key feature at the Ft. Montgomery site.  To salute the opening of the visitor centre, artillery crews demonstrated their cannon, including "George" (whom we redcoats assume is named for the King, while the Doodles claim it for Washington) which is a 32 lb. cannon, the largest cannon in the US Park Service.  George ate 12 lbs. of gunpowder in every earth-shattering blast, sending a raging thunder echoing down the Hudson River in a very long, impressive roll.  George was the star of the show, but the battle event to come was exciting as well.  Mr. Kish, a loyalist for the day, had taken our company through the manual of arms and we practiced light infantry maneuvers because of the heavily wooded and uneven terrain we were dealing with.  Once we had gone through the drills and conferred with the public, we had a light snack of some fruit, pastries, and other things provided by the site staff.  Our force was divided into two sections to confront the enemy and repulse them.  The area of action was a forested one with a fork in the road.  Company I took the high road, we, Company II, took the low road, and would've marched right onto Scotland had there not been a rebel cannon at the joining of the roads.  Our section was supported by two Loyalist Dragoons of the Queen's Rangers, providing reconnaissance for our infantry (grenadiers, Hessian, loyalist skirmishers).  Once Company I had pushed the rebel infantry down the hill towards their own gun, our section rushed forward in a street-firing maneuver in which the first line is loaded and fires.  Those behind the first advance forward as the others are reloading.  The second section fires, and the next line moves up, thus allowing a steady rate of fire and the rapid attainment of ground.  The dragoons dispatched with the enemy artillery and our British unit was reunited, firing off sectional volleys into the Americans.  Company II, however, was sent out to flank the Americans via the right, while Company I slugged it out directly.  We poured a rapid and fast-advancing fire into the colonials and they saw their situation hopeless and surrendered.  Our speed and maneuvering outmatched the American numerical superiority and carried the day.  We drew up our lines for the surrendering ceremony's pass and review, then marched off in columns towards the visitor centre.  The reenactors were positioned overlooking the dedication area while numerous speeches from various dignitaries were made.  We fired a few salutes and, to our surprise, were joined with a fireworks display from behind the visitor centre.  Also, unknown to us until then, an 18th Century ship (might nautical knowledge fails me, it was small--a sloop perhaps?  Cutter?) was hovering a short distance away on the Hudson to add to the effect.  From there, we were dismissed and retired for the day, contented, tired, and satisfied.

The Society had, up until this point, participated primarily in Victorian 1880's-themed activities.  We do emphasize the American Revolution and build our impression around the 35th Regiment of Foot, Grenadier Company.  Unfortunately, the supply convoy from England was struck by a nasty squall, scattering the ships about, and delaying our new uniform coats from arriving in time.  However, Pte. Arthur had his uniform from the previous year and was able to appear in full kit.  Pte. Maxfield fought alongside the King's Troops as a Loyalist soldier during our activities at Long Pond.  Threatening weather reports had indicated a 60% chance of thunderstorms but we were lucky that the weather held quite well with only the slightest occasional drizzle.  After going through the Manual of Arms 1764 with the men, Pte. Arthur as 35th Grenadier was given the honour of commanding the composite Crown Forces unit, joined with grenadiers of the 64th Reg't.  Our objective for the scenario was to defeat the militiamen, capture their camp, and interrogate the audience.  The American objective was to prevent us from doing any such thing.  The action started in the woods as the small Anglo/American column approached a foot bridge.  Our presence was detected and soon we were met by the New Jersey militiamen.  A brief exchange of musket fire repulsed them from the road and we approached the village.  There we discovered the main body of militia, exchanged another series of volleys resulting in casualties on both sides.  To our dismay, we watched as the militia vanished into the surrounding woodlands.  The British forces pursued into the woods with bayonets in an attempt to secure the position.  It was discovered that the enemy was far more numerous and that our situation most precarious, our visibility short and the Americans skirmishing cowardly behind trees and rocks.  We withdrew to the village and began our interrogation of the public.  We found them to be thoroughly stubborn New Jerseyians all, opposed to any taxation, British or domestic, and unenthusiastic about remaining subjects of the king.  The militia had returned, as expected, and flanked our small position.  With little other choice, the British company began a fighting "tactical withdrawal" with bayonet and sword (an advantage to being a grenadier!) combat along the way.  We withdrew to the foot bridge and once again engaged the militia who had begun to appear in all direction in superior numbers.  Those who had not fallen to the enemy's bullets were captured after a most valiant resistance, and northern New Jersey remains a hotbed of insurrectionist sentiment.  Afterwards, we mingled with the public, chatted, and spent the afternoon among our friends.  We had an excellent time and believe that of the public who came to watch, many left with a greater understanding of 18th Century conflict.  It was also a learning experience for yours truly, particularly so when reflecting on the frustrations of the British commanders who had to face "unconventional" warfare as was waged by the militia two centuries ago and also thinking on the current world conflicts and the difficulties, not all too far removed, our military faces today.

The Society set up a static Victorian military display at the Proprietary House in Perth Amboy.  The Proprietary House was the Royal Governor's Mansion of the colony of New Jersey, the last governor being William Franklin.  Our presence there was to provide another look on British history and the empire, but in this case, 100 years after the American Revolution.  Tours of the House either began or ended with our display in the large receiving room.  We were happy to have elegant surroundings and an original painting of His Majesty King George III hanging on the wall as we spoke with school-children and their parents about Queen Victoria's campaigns and the Royal Sussex Regiment which fought in them.  Early reports of bad weather lead us to believe that it would be a lightly attended occasion, but fortunately, only a drizzling now and then appeared and public attention was, happily, more than we anticipated.  The event had been advertised in the local school system and, from what we understand, extra credit would be given to students who made an effort to take part in our educational program.  We found the discussions to be quite rewarding and the Proprietary House staff very welcoming.

The Society was present at Ringwood Manor for a Sunday event with a static Victorian military display.  We were fortunate to be joined by Private D.J. Ciarletta on this occasion, a seasonal soldier whose current postings in the Militia Battalion often have him stationed in England.  Nevertheless, we had three soldiers and Miss Albin.  Maxfield saw to making lunch in our cast iron pot and experimenting with "rustic tea."  We performed a firing demonstration with the Martini-Henry rifles, conducted drilling, and spoke with the public about the life and times of Queen Victoria's redcoats.  The weather was perfect--cool with a slight breeze--and the staff of Ringwood Manor particularly friendly and accommodating.  We struck our camp and marched out the Colours about 4:00.

The American Civil War re-enactment at Neshaminy Park was visited by the Royal Sussex.  Arthur, Maxfield, and Miss Albin made the trip to witness the Union and Confederate States of America in their struggle and take advantage of the vendors and better understand some of the fascinating characters found there.  In addition to recruiting efforts and making new friends as well as encountering old friends such as John Sr. and John Jr. and Captain Jicha serving with General Grant.  There was a bit of photography and merry-making.  We took tea towards the end of the afternoon and departed contented.