The British Are Coming! - Living History Event

Celebrate America’s 250th anniversary with an unforgettable day of living history!

It’s 1776. Battles are raging across Massachusetts, and Ellington’s militia stands ready to answer the Lexington Alarm. As our townsmen prepare to march, a company of British soldiers arrives in Ellington searching for deserters who may, or may not, be hiding among the good townspeople.

But the British have another mission: to find the legendary farmland of one of Boston’s most famous patriots, John Hancock. Yes, THAT John Hancock! Tempers flare. Loyalties are tested. Secrets are uncovered. And Ellington’s future may depend on what happens next. WILL YOU ANSWER THE CALL?T

This year, children become part of the story! Choose your side: Rebel or Loyalist? Sneak into the camps. Follow the clues. Uncover hidden plans. Help save Ellington… or prove your loyalty to the Crown! With the help of our friends from the 54th Regiment of Foot and Ye Olde Lebanon Militia, we invite families, history lovers, and the simply curious to experience the American Revolution up close.

Expect a day filled with hands-on activities, dramatic encounters, living-history demonstrations, a children’s spy game, and even an 18th-century soccer match!

EVENT SCHEDULE• 9AM - British and Colonial Camps Open

9:30AM - 18th-Century British Army Field Hospital Demonstration,

10AM - Military Drills for Children Register here.

10:30AM - Firearms of the 1700s (Colonial Camp)

11AM - British Officer Overview & Fencing Tutorial Register here

11:30AM - Children’s Mock Battle Register here

12:30PM - Children’s Spy Game Register here

1PM - Camp Tours & Lunch Break

1:30PM - 18th-Century British Army Field Hospital Demonstration,

1:30PM - 18th-Century Soccer Match Register here

2PM - Mock Trial of the Deserters! Guests are encouraged to heckle the British officers! Will the militia come to the rescue?•

3:00 PM - Camps Close

MAKE A DAY OF IT! Spend the day immersed in the sights, sounds, and excitement of the Revolution.

Stop by the Rusty Canteen Pub for fall treats and refreshments.

Visit our arts and crafts table where kids can create their  own tri-cornered hat. And come dressed for the occasion, costumes are encouraged!

Whether you choose the Rebel cause or remain loyal to the Crown, there’s a place for you in the story.