British Invade Forsyth-Warren Tavern This Weekend

This weekend, the Forsyth-Warren Tavern Living History Farm and Museum in Cambria will host a Revolutionary War encampment, celebrating America's 250th anniversary. The event features British troops and American militias demonstrating period life, emphasizing the historical significance of taverns as vital centers for news and political discourse.

Taverns during the Revolutionary War period were not only places for lodging and meals but also informal relay stations for critical news and the era's political ideas. This reenactment will showcase how both British and American forces would commandeer these establishments for their own use, with local re-enactors portraying tavern staff.

Organized by museum trustee Amy Codding, the encampment involves four re-enactment groups, including the 64th Regiment of Foot (British) and Marinus Willet's Levies (American). The free public event offers ongoing demonstrations such as open-fire cooking, soldier pack inspections, butter-making, and traditional fire-building techniques.

A detailed schedule includes formations, military drills, musket demonstrations, discussions on women's roles, quill pen writing, and period-appropriate meals. Visitors can also learn about historic encampments, participate in activities like stoolball, and attend lectures on the Revolutionary War, providing a comprehensive historical experience.