Historic Battles Reenacted
Major battles have shaped the entire world. Who needs TV when you can watch two different sides fighting it out? You have drama, suspense and an epic battle. This is probably why many of the great historic battles have been re-enacted. Every year thousands of people take part in one of these re-enactments in front of huge crowds. Here are five of the most notable battles that have been re-enacted.
The Battle of Gettysburg
The Battle of Gettysburg took place in southern Pennsylvania on July 1-3, 1863 as part of The American Civil War. It was a fight between the Confederate troops and Union soldiers. It is considered to be one of the bloodiest battles that has ever taken place with over 51,000 American soldiers killed, wounded or missing.
Where To See It
Re-enactments each year occur around the beginning of August by The Gettysburg Anniversary Committee. They include field demonstrations on the original battlefield. Tickets for kids start out at $16 and $29 for adults.
D-Day
This battle was fought by the Allied troops of the U.S. and U.K and Nazi Germany. It occurred as part of World War II in Normandy, France on June 6, 1944. The Allies lost a lot of troops, but ultimately won the battle.
Where To See It
D-Day re-enactments often start in late May and go through August. In Conneaut, Ohio at Conneaut Township Park there is a re-enactment of the battle scheduled for August 21-22. There’s expected to be about 750 people “fighting it out” in the battle with many more spectators in attendance watching this free event.
The Battle of Bunker Hill
The Battle of Bunk Hill took place as part of The American Revolutionary War between the British colonial forces and the British troops on June 17, 1775. The British troops were able to preserve despite a large amount of casualties.
Where To See It
In May, a 250-acre pasture located in Epping, New Hampshire became the site for the re-enactment of The Battle of Bunker Hill. This year marked the 240th anniversary of the battle and the privately financed re-enactment was open to the public. No word yet on whether or not there will be another re-enactment next year.
The Battle of the Alamo
This battle took place as part of The Texas Revolution that occurred February 23- March 6, 1863 and was fought between the Mexican troops that were under Santa Anna and the Texians. Famous fighters in this battle were Davy Crocket and Sam Bowie. Both were killed and Santa Anna ultimately killed all of their opponents.
Where To See It
The Alamo is the number one tourist destination in the state of Texas. Visitors can tour the battle areas. Re-enactments do occur throughout the year, but don’t tend to be very authentic.
The Battle of Waterloo
The Battle of Waterloo took place on June 18, 1815 in Waterloo, which is now Belgium. It was part of the War of the Seventh Coalition and was fought between the French army and the Seventh Coalition. The French Army was beat by the Seventh Coalition and Napoleon was forced to exile.
Where To See It
For its bicentennial, a re-enactment of the battle was held in late June in Belgium. It consisted of 100 cannons, 300 horses and around 5,000 people re-enacting it.
