For two days Lippman Park was transformed from a scenic family playground into a spectacular portal to the past. As part of the Town of Wawarsing’s bicentennial celebration, the Brigade of the American Revolution (BAR) descended upon the park to recreate the famous Burning of Wawarsing. Though the festivities officially began on Saturday August 12, many volunteers began to gather the evening before.

Two hundred and twenty-five years ago on the morning of August 12, 1781 a group of Loyalists and Iroquois raided the hamlet of Wawarsing. Led by Captain William Caldwell, the attack was unsuccessful. Though Caldwell had superior numbers, they were starving and lacked provisions. Colonel Pawling’s Levies succeeded in defending Wawarsing.

Upon arrival to the event spectators were greeted by re-enactors who wore outfitted in period dress- authentic wools and linens researched and hand-sewn by members of the BAR. Merchant tents dotted the perimeter of the encampment.

Once inside onlookers could view and handle artifacts re-created by skilled craftsmen. Each was eager to discuss their goods and perform demonstrations. One volunteer, Erwin Tschanz, a former soldier turned ‘horner’ demonstrated his skill- turning bull horns into every-day provisions such as drinking glasses, bowls and spoons. An active BAR member for over 30 years, Tschanz is a resident of Rochester, New York. Though some items were simply for show, many were for sale including books, cookware, buttons and hand-sculpted combs. In a variety of sizes and colors, each comb was unique. “These,” Tschanz gleamed, “were made by a late-member of the BAR. He was a fifth generation comb maker.” Tschanz explained that the comb maker’s craft had been passed down through each generation, dating back to the actual Revolutionary War.

Though many can, not all members of the BAR can trace their heritage back to the war. Regardless of lineage, anyone interested can become a member. The BAR is an organization comprised of nearly 3000 volunteers. Founded in 1962, the Brigade and its members are dedicated to preserving life throughout the period of America’s struggle for independence. Traveling throughout the country, available volunteers converge to recreate America’s past.

Once inside an encampment it is easy for one to get lost in the festivities. With the constant drum-roll of the troops and distant gun-fire, even a history-novice can appreciate the dedication of the actors. Through the BAR American history is able to come alive. Allowing Wawarsing to rise again was truly an event worth celebrating.

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