The Historical Society of Easton and Easton's Parks and Recreation Department, have organized a day of living history on Saturday October 11th when the 5th Connecticut Volunteer Regiment encamps on the grounds of the Bradley-Hubbell Homestead for an unforgettable experience that young and old will enjoy.
Children and adults can drill with the regimental soldiers and watch as they fire their weapons. Practice loading and drilling with a Revolutionary War cannon. Learn about life at camp and on the home front from soldiers, surgeons, cooks, and other colonial re-enactors. There will even be a surprise attack by British marines!
The 5th Connecticut Volunteer Regiment is made up of local individuals that enjoy learning and teaching about the history of America. Members include men, women, and children from the surrounding areas that are dedicated to the creation of a living history experience for their community. By including women and children in the regiment, a broader representation of colonial life beyond the military is brought to each event.
This Regiment was created in 1974 and is based on the original 5th Connecticut regiments during the Revolutionary War. The original 5th Connecticut was mustered in May 1775 as one of the six regiments formed by Connecticut in response to the events at Lexington and Concord, MA. It was made up of officers and men from Fairfield County. Easton (which was then part of Fairfield) would have sent soldiers to this regiment. Due to illness and casualties, the regiment only lasted one year. It was re-formed in early 1777 under the direction of Colonel Philip Burr Bradley. As the regiment was being mustered, the British launched the raid on Danbury and Colonel Bradley responded with roughly 50 untrained troops. The 5th Connecticut played a vital role in the defense of Ridgefield and two of its soldiers, Private Bradley Dean and Sergeant Clement Lloyd, were killed. The connection to local history makes this encampment a truly spectacular opportunity for the Historical Society of Easton.
This event will take place on Saturday October 11th between 11 AM to 3 PM at the Bradley-Hubbell Homestead 535 Black Rock Road, Easton, CT. (Rain Date: Saturday October 18th). The admission cost for the event will be $5 per person, $20 per family, and children under 5 will be admitted for free. Admission will be half-price for Historical Society Members.
