FAIRFIELD COUNTY – Fairfield County has plans to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution and the role it’s favorite sons and daughters played in it.
The celebration will be held April 25 – 26 on the green in front of the Fairfield County Government Complex.
“The re-enactment of Revolutionary War era events will celebrate Fairfield County’s rich history and contributions during the War,” said the Fairfield County 250 American Revolution Committee Chair Becky Swearingen.
“Professional re-enactment actors from across the country will present in period costumes, and in dramatic detail, the various historic events and characters from the war.”
The two-day event will be held from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. on Saturday and from 12 – 3 p.m. on Sunday.
Step into the past at the Fairfield County 250th Living History Event, Stories of the Backcountry: Fairfield in the Revolution. This immersive weekend experience brings Revolutionary War history to life through living history encampments, demonstrations, and engaging presentations featuring figures such as George Washington, his Valet Billy Lee, William Martin, and Lord Cornwallis.
Visitors can explore the daily realities of soldiers and civilians alike, including powerful stories from a slave dwelling project in that era that will include African American voices from Fairfield County.
Perfect for history enthusiasts of all ages, the event offers an engaging and educational look at the region’s role in America’s founding.
The continental troops and the militia will perform on the grounds across the green.
Attendees will experience a musket and cannon firing in an artillery salute to Washington during the Fire of Joy, followed by the 3rd Light Infantry Dragoons Horsemanship demonstration.
George Washington is portrayed by Revolutionary War actor John Koopman from Conneticut, and Billy Lee will be portrayed by Quinton Castles from Virginia.
The celebration and re-enactment is free to the public. It is being paid for by a $53,800 S.C. 250 Commission grant secured by the Fairfield County Historical Society and organized by community volunteers.
For more information or to volunteer, contact Swearingen at 803-899-1223.
