Hear ye, hear ye - passion be conscripting

Algoma 1812 has called in a field commander to whip the local troops into shape for the upcoming War of 1812. Or, to be more precise, the big centennial re-enactment of the War of 1812 this July.

Algoma 1812 has called in a field commander to whip the local troops into shape for the upcoming War of 1812.

Or, to be more precise, the big centennial re-enactment of the War of 1812 this July.

The problem is they need more troops to support the war effort.

“I’ve been brought in to assist the Algoma War of 1812 in recruitment, training of re-enactors, and coordinating historical components,” said Dave Brunelle. “There’s more to re-enacting than just the authentic attire; it’s a mindset and it’s about understanding the time to ensure an accurate representation of that period.”

Brunelle is shown with local re-enactor and volunteer Myril Lynn Brason-Lediett at the Ermatinger-Clergue National Historic Site on Queen Street East.

“It started out of plain old interest over 20 years ago," said Brunelle. "I continue it out of passion.”

Algoma 1812 is also looking for a whole bunch of other passionate folks to help out with the re-enactment this year.

“We’re not only looking for re-enactors but volunteers for all the War of 1812 events in July,” said Cindy Ellen Crawford, regional project manager with Algoma 1812.

“This is an opportunity to learn more about the role we played in one of the most defining moments in Canadian history and contribute to the success of these events.”

Among the events and re-enactments planned from July 17-21 will be a canoe flotilla from St. Joseph Island to Sault Ste. Marie.

This represents the alliance that was made between the British and tribes of the region that made a significant difference and led to the conquering of the American fort at Mackinac Island without firing a single shot.

“Most re-enactors have a significant appreciation for historical period they portray and look at it as a way to share knowledge of a historical event,” said Brunelle. “Some actually schedule their family vacations around historical re-enactment dates and participate as a group.”

Join Algoma 1812 from July 17-21, 2012, to commemorate the Bicentennial of the War of 1812.

To learn more on how to volunteer or sign up to participate in the reenactment, visit here or use e-mail.