Vincennes, Indiana Rendezvous: Memorial Day Historical Re-enactment

One of the foremost historical re-enactment events in the Midwest takes place annually in Vincennes, Indiana. This is the Rendezvous, sponsored by the Spirit of Vincennes, Inc. on Memorial Day weekend. The dates for the Rendezvous this year are May 23 and 24, 2009. The Rendezvous brings back the history and lifestyle of the 18th century as it was here in the Northwest Territory. The historical importance of this event is reinforced by the fact that Vincennes is the oldest continually inhabited European settlement in Indiana. The battle was part of a military campaign that forged the Northwest Territory and opened the door for westward expansion from the colonies.

On the banks of the Wabash River, on the French Commons adjacent to the George Rogers Clark National Historical Park, a stirring Revolutionary War battle is re-enacted. The actual siege involved British Lt. Gov. Henry Hamilton and his garrison of 80 soldiers, and Lt. Col. George Rogers Clark with his army of 170 American and French-Canadian troops. Clark's army had previously defeated the British at the fur trading post of Kaskaskia, Illinois in 1778, and they had then marched across southern Illinois to Fort Sackville, the original post at what is now Vincennes. The trek across Illinois was made across flooded swamps during the middle of winter, as depicted in the image. The British, who had only recently taken Fort Sackville from the French, did not expect any kind of uprising until spring, so the February 23, 1779 arrival of Clark's militia was a complete surprise. The siege lasted only two days.

When you visit the Rendezvous, you will see more than a battle re-enactment. There are 500 re-enactors, many of whom make encampments as either citizens or militia. Visitors can walk through and see first hand what life in a frontier military camp was like in 1778. Or you can tour the citizen encampment and catch a glimpse of the frontier pioneer life of early settlers who were moving into the region before 1800. You will find that the lifestyles depicted in the encampments and the demonstrations are true to the period. Clothing is as authentic as possible, whether Native American, frontier settler, militia uniforms, or townspeople. The merchants at the festival provide entertainment and education, and they also have for sale just about whatever you might need if you would like to become a re-enactor yourself.

Authenticity is taken very seriously, and participants' campsites, food, clothing, etc. is all subject to inspection and approval. Everything from corrective eyewear to fabric to cooking utensils must be authentic to the 18th century. There are colonial games for children (of all ages), storytellers, and oxen teams trained as they were in the 1770s to work with only spoken word from their handler.

Other attractions include Grouseland, the home of William Henry Harrison, which is open for tours daily and for candelight tours in the evenings. Other historic sites are also within walking distance, and they include the Indiana Territory Capitol and the Stout Print Shop. A Grand Ball (FREE!) is held on Saturday evening on the grounds between the historic sites and Grouseland, with live music, a dance caller, and no costumes or experience necessary. Those who do not wish to dance can bring lawn chairs and enjoy the fun. Vincennes also is the home of the Old French House, the Indiana Military Museum, and the Old Cathedral.

The city of Vincennes is located at US Highway 41 and US Highway 50 in southwestern Indiana in Knox County. Contact the Vincennes/Knox County Convention and Visitors Bureau at 1-800-886-6443.

http://www.spiritofvincennes.org/rendezvous/index.htm
Personal experience. This is a great event!