Northeast Reenactor's Fair

This past weekend, members of Baker Company, 1st Battalion, 21st Marine Regiment participated in the Northeast Reenactor's Fair held in the Mallory Complex at the Big E fairgrounds in West Springfield, MA. It was a great experience and we feel fortunate indeed to have met so many of our fellow reenactors as well as members of the public, some of whom were interested in becoming members of B/1/21.
     We did not portray B/1/21 at this event, instead we were asked to be part of the main exhibit on the Tet Offensive of the Vietnam War. We passed on our World War II uniforms and instead donned the uniforms of the Marines in the 1960s. For one of our members, Plt. Sgt Leo Tucker, it was not reenacting at all, but a journey back in time to a younger version of himself. That was one of the great things about this event; he got to share his experiences with so many interested people. 

Photo thanks to A Timeless Collection

     The event had over fifty vendors with displays ranging from the Roman Empire, through the Vietnam War. It was truly wonderful to see all of the display items, as well as the various wares that could be purchased. So many of the visitors walked out with more than just material goods, but a deeper understanding of a life that seems so distant from the digital age we live in. Everything from civilian clothing, to uniforms, and accouterments could be found for sale.

Photo thanks to A Timeless Collection

     In previous years the fair has attracted vendors that were predominantly focused on the early colonial era, the Revolutionary War, and the Civil War. This year it was wonderful to see that expand to include both earlier eras and more modern eras. It was truly a walk through time in so many different ways. There were vendors selling clothing from the Revolutionary War, and Civil War, as well as our good friend at Emily's Vintage Visions selling clothing from the early and mid 20th century.

     For the reenactors who were participating and visiting the attractions, it was a great place to network and learn about upcoming events, insurance options, and explore other eras that they may not be as familiar with. B/1/21, A Timeless Collection, and The Vintage Express got information, and invitations to the Massachusetts Military History Weekend in Orange, MA on May 19 & 20. We will all be setting up together there. B/1/21 will be focusing on the Guam Campaign (21 July- 10 August 1944). Our plan is to set up a small foxhole and camp to represent the life of Marines in the Pacific. This will be one of the public display events that I referenced in last month's post. 

Photo thanks to A Timeless Collection

We are very excited for this year's reenacting season and look forward to seeing many of our friends out in the field. We have several events lined up, as well as potential photoshoots, and immersive events. The Northeast Reenactor's Fair was a great way to kick off this year's reenacting season!! We can't wait for the next one!