Are you ready for the Battle of Guilford Courthouse? The reenactment, happening in Country Park today and tomorrow, demonstrates the battle that took place here on March 15, 1781. This is a special year, as it is the semiquincentennial (250th) anniversary of the founding of the United States. The Revolutionary War began on April 19, 1775; we date our independence to July 4, 1776; and, the war ended on September 3, 1783 with the Treaty of Paris. While the American Patriots, under Major General Nathanael Greene, lost the battle, this battle was a turning point in the the Revolutionary War.

If 18th-century history interests you, this is your weekend to head to Country Park. Activities and demonstrations will be happening all day today (10am-5pm) and tomorrow (10 am-3pm); however, the actual battle is scheduled for 2 p.m. each day. Reenacters and their families will be in character all weekend, and we love the serendipity of walking around and seeing what wecan experience. For example, one year, we were on the lower road by the lake on Sunday morning and, in the early morning, pre-battle still, an 18th century prayer/church service was being held on the science-center side of the lake.

The above photo is of a young man who had just driven in from Texas. This will be his first year at The Battle of Guilford Courthouse. You can tell by his smile that he is really happy to be here, and to have completed his 1,124 drive from Houston. His drum is strapped on his back and he did not yet have his coat on. He is representing the British force. Drummers were essential for facilitating communication, including locating the dead and wounded.

A heartfelt thank you to all of the volunteers for bring history alive for us in Greensboro, NC.

Happy Saturday!