Several Revolutionary War living history units will be in attendance and will make the 18th century come to life during the weekend.
May 15–16, 2021 @ Sycamore Shoals State Historic Area
ELIZABETHTON, TN — On Saturday, May 15and Sunday, May 16, Sycamore Shoals State Historic Park hosts nearly 150 living history re-enactors for the 26thannualSiege of Fort Watauga. Colonial, British, and Native re-enactors converge at the re-created Fort Watauga at Sycamore Shoals to relive the days when America’s first frontier was the land beyond the blue ridge.
From 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. each day Sycamore Shoals becomes the scene of war during the Siege of Fort Watauga. Step back in time as you visit the fort, militia camps, British encampment and Native American camp. Be immersed in the 18th century as you witness daily aspects of colonial frontier life. See the clash of two cultures as the attack on Fort Watauga is recreated both days at 1:30 p.m.
During the event, take advantage of colonial merchants selling period wares in Sutler’s Row. There will be several vendors offering a myriad of 18thcentury reproduction items for the colonial enthusiast or the primitive decorator. Vendors this year include Ft. Vause Outfitters specializing in finished leather goods, Windhil Woolens offering hand processed and dyed woolen goods such as yarn, blankets, and clothing, Walnut Hill Embellishments specializing in 18th century reproduction and historically inspired jewelry, Trader Bob offering a wide selection of hides and pelts, and Wintergreen Farms specializing in antique and original items. Several other vendors will offer everything from 18th century reproduction clothing and gear, to replica housewares and military accouterments.
Several Revolutionary War living history units will be in attendance and will make the 18th century come to life during the weekend. Units include the 2ndRegt. SC Continental Line, the South Carolina Rangers, and Musgrove’s Mill Militia all based in South Carolina, and British units; the 71s tHighland Regiment, and the British Legion. The host unit is the Washington County Regiment of North Carolina Militia based at Sycamore Shoals State Historic Park. Also, enjoy musical entertainment from The Sons of Liberty, and the Watauga Valley Fife & Drum Corps.
Numerous individuals also participate in the event portraying many 18th century walks of life including Cherokee natives, backcountry hunters, farmers, housewives, indentured servants, commoners and gentry. This year Sycamore Shoals hosts the Scoundrels’ Alley,who represent the lowest class of colonial society and showcase the “dirty jobs” available in the 18thcentury through presentations entitledAn Honest Days Work.
Precautions will be taken to minimize the spread of Covid-19. All event activities occur outdoors. Visitors are asked to stay six feet apart from other guests. Face masks are required inside all state park facilities. Face masks are recommended outdoors if social distancing cannot be maintained. Park buildings are subject to closure if maximum capacity is exceeded. Restrooms will also close periodically for cleaning.
For more information on this and other events at Sycamore Shoals contact the park at 423-543-5808, visit the park’s websites atsycamoreshoalstn.organdtnstateparks.com/parks/sycamore-shoals. Visitfacebook.com/sycamoreshoalsfor a detailed schedule available soon.
Admission to the event is free and food concessions will be available.
This event is sponsored by The Washington County Regiment of North Carolina Militia living history organization and The Friends of Sycamore Shoals State Historic Park.
Category: Theatre