[Regia-NA] Fort Mac 2005

[Douglas Sunlin]

Well, as I write this, I am recovering from another great show. :)

Ottar (Jack Garrett), Aelfwynn (Jan Ward), Osweald (Douglas Sunlin), Robert 
(Ben Pyles) and Owyn (Adam Pettygrew), as well as Jan's husband Jack Ward 
(keeper of the camera and watch) have all returned from the Los Angeles area 
and a successful (fourth year!) appearance at the annual Old Fort MacArthur 
military reenactment show.

This was our largest Ft Mac turnout yet. The living history display and 
combat displays were great, earning us many compliments from reenactors in 
other groups, as well as from Members of the Public. Ottar's shade structure 
proved itself worth the small bother in setting it up by providing ample 
shade, allowing us to ignore the sun and concentrate on the matter at hand.

It was very interesting when Stephen from a neighboring group shot a 
bodkin-tipped arrow through a riveted-mail shirt. The result made for a 
provocative display. Owyn arrived without shoes, but quickly crafted a pair 
of pampooties from some leather that he and Robert borught along.

It was a privilege to meet Jan and see her textiles presentation; the 
"distaff" side is often under-represented at such events.

Having lively young (and skilled!) combat wombats like Owyn (sp?) and Robert 
along really kicked butt. I missed the final event on Sunday, where people 
from all the non-gunpowder groups did a mock charge on the ACW shooters, 
most of them falling down on cue. I wish I had taken pictures of that.

In addition, we met many enthusiastic people, members of the public, some 
just to look, learn and share, and a good number who were excited to see our 
encampment and showing interest in joining.

So, overall, a really satisfying event. I want to thank everyone who came 
and participated.

Osweald
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