A Margate Packet. The effects of a squall, or a sudden shift of ballast. [1821]
Hand-coloured aquatint, Published by George Humphrey, London, after Captain Frederick Marryat
The crowded cabin tilts to the right, to the dismay of a family party dining at a table in the foreground. There is a second table in the background with a meal in progress. The cabin is bordered on left and right by two tiers of berths, apparently for two persons, set in panelling, and with curtains festooned along the upper edge. These are filled by suffering travellers. A bench runs along the front of the berths; other passengers sit on camp-stools. Phases of misery, discomfort, resignation, and (by exception) complacency are realistically illustrated. A sailor pushes a mop-stick through an open hatch in the roof.
Looking at this image makes me think about all the trouble that we would have gone through to travel to foreign lands. How did you get to where you are now? How long were you on the packet to get there? Which one of these poor people would best represent you and YOUR voyage?
Here is a humorous 'day in the life' look at what you might have done today in the Regency era.
The Pleasures of Margate [1800]
Rowlandson, London Pub 25 July 1800 by R. Ackermann at his Repository of the Arts 101 Strand
Four compartments on one sheet.
Morning: An overweight man sits in a chair looking through a telescope whilst his family sit eating at table. A group of figures at the right seem to be offering him food for sale. Noon: Enjoying a hearty meal. Evening: Going for a ride. Night: His wife throws dice in one of the libraries whilst his daughter is flirting with a soldier.
A post purely for fun. See how many familiar faces, locations and costumes you recognise from your favorite period flicks! Be the first to post your findings on the RSA Forums...
AUTHENTIC CAMPS 1790-1815
War of 1812 U.S. and British Regular Army, Militia, Indians, Craftsmen, and Traders attend this event. Visitors may wander through the camps throughout the weekend. Participants are available to answer questions and to do demonstrations.
Vendors will provide a wide array of goods including: Clothing, Art work, Reproductions, Various Sundries, all representative of the early 1800s.
The RSA's own Miss Waterman gives a talk.
Demonstrations will involve young and old alike. Learn about: 1800's Medical techniques, Ladies Fashion, Gunsmithing, Woodworking, Spinning, Soap Making, Blacksmithing, Children’s Games, and more!
Food will be provided by several non-profit groups and are enough to tempt any visitor: The menu and fair change each year, come see what tempts your palette.
Relive authentic encampments of the War of 1812 and Indiana Territorial Period as you witness the confrontation between Governor William Henry Harrison (later 9th U.S. President) and Shawnee Leader Tecumseh. Experience the daily battle, patrol with Harrison's troops, gentlemen's duel, cannon, rifle and musket demonstrations and children's activities while strolling the grounds of historic Fort Knox II. Food and period vendors complete the atmosphere in portraying early Vincennes history! Fort Knox II was built in 1803, three miles north of Vincennes on the Wabash River. In 1810, Captain Zachary Taylor strengthened the fort and Shawnee Leader Tecumseh visited it. In 1811, Indiana Territorial Governor William Henry Harrison "mustered" his troops here before the Battle of Tippecanoe. The fort's stockade is marked with short posts and interpretive signs.
Soldiers and Civilians in camp.
Common Stock, traveling entertainers with their wagon of treats.
The Doctor gives a talk in the Art and Mystery of his profession.
Warning: They haven't updated their website with THIS year's dates yet, but I have confirmation from the event coordinator that the dates I list at the top of this article ARE in fact the correct dates for this year.
The Fair at New Boston covers a wide time period, traditionally from 1790-1810, but perhaps in honor of this year's special anniversary, the Fair at New Boston's Facebook page proclaims that "It'll be 1812 at this year's Fair at New Boston!"
The Regency Era contingent at the Fair has been growing steadily for the past few years, and promises to be bigger than ever this coming year. And so, in keeping with the continued implementation of Directive #4, we give you more information about an event that has something to interest everyone.
Step 200 years back in time at the Fair at New Boston! September 1 & 2, 2012 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Both Days
George Rogers Clark Park, Springfield Oh.
Your full day of historical adventure will begin with cheering and huzzahs as Revolutionary War hero General George Rogers Clark rides into the Fair on horseback. Cannon fire will salute General Clark, Daniel Boone, and other heroes of the frontier, as they are formally welcomed at Opening Ceremonies. After the 15 star flag is raised over the Fair ground, stay around to hear food vendors brag about the quality of their delicacies and merchants urge the Fairmasters to stop by their booths.
Artisans, and merchants
Explore the marketplace and unique shops that surround the public square. Find special treasures you will not find in regular stores. Pottery, herbs, dried flowers, handmade chairs, silhouettes, jewelry, books, lanterns, material, clothing of the frontier era and much more can be found in the tents and booths of more than three dozen merchants and artisans. The tinsmith will be making lanterns, while the blacksmiths work on the necessary tools needed by everyone. The lace maker will be making lace while he tells of his need to hire children as indentured servants.
Entertainment
Need to rest your feet? Join the audience and share in the hearty laughter at the Cheapside Theater area. Can Dr. Balthasar’s elixir really cure all that ails you? What will Mr. Bailey, the Magician, pull out of his hat next? Can Professor Thompson S. Gunn really lie down on a bed of nails?
Entertainment can be found throughout the Fair. Let the Clockwork Clowns amaze you. The beautiful Slackrope Walker and cheery Fair Wynds have captivated visitors for years. Puppet shows, singers, and magicians set up in various locations and sometimes move around.
Food and Beverages
If you are thirsty, beverages can be found in three taverns, The Black Horse, Little John’s, and the Hickory in addition to the Dancing Goats Coffee House, which is located right in the middle of everything. In addition to lemonade, ice tea, a sarsaparilla, and bottle water, taverns also serve beer. (Although we claim to be in 1799 - a 21st century ID is still required of guests!)
There is an even bigger variety of food available this year, so do come hungry to the Fair! Pork chops, turkey legs, sausages, buffalo meat, chicken and noodles, bean soup, corn, peaches and pound cake, raspberries and cream, creampuffs, bread and butter, green beans and potatoes, and much more will delight even the pickiest eaters.
Woodland Indian Village
After stuffing yourself, take a short walk down a forest trail to visit a Woodlands Indian Village of the time period. This is particularly appropriate since the Fair is on the former site of two Shawnee villages Peckuwe and Kispoko. Handicrafts, games, and demonstrations of Shawnee, Mingo, Miami, Wyandotte, and other tribes are featured.
Heroes of Frontier return
At various times during the day, Gen. Clark, Daniel Boone, and other persons from the frontier will meet at the Fairmasters tent to tell about the Battle of Peckuwe, and other things that happened in this area. A professional actor will portray each of the visiting frontier heroes. Mel Hankala, from Kentucky Chautauqua will be Gen. George Rogers Clark. Daniel Boone will be portrayed by Steven Caudill, who has portrayed Boone on film. Bob Anderson, as descendant of a member of the Lewis and Clark Expedition will portray his ancestor Private Shannon. Eva Lail will tell of her time in captivity with the Shawnee. Phyllis Wheately will read her poetry. Having a photo taken with at least one of these frontier heroes will be a must!
Music and Dancing
Later in the Fairmasters tent the Liberty Dancers will demonstrate dances of the time period enjoyed by Washington, Jefferson, Clark and many of the founding fathers and mothers. Visitors will be given an opportunity to join in an 18th century dance.
Music was enjoyed in many different forms then as it is now. Relax in a colonial tavern while listening to music of the colonial era. Musicians playing violins, mandolins, guitars, and even bagpipes move from tavern to tavern. The coffeehouse is as center of entertainment and a quiet place where you can enjoy a game of checkers or chess.
Battle Re-enactment and Cannon
Thrill to the boom of the full-sized Revolutionary War cannon. The Mad River Light Artillery sets up there bronze British Light Weight Six-pounder at the top of the hill near the flagpole and militia encampment. This group will demonstrate cannon firing many times throughout the day.
Each afternoon features the excitement of a battle reenactment! The Fairs of the 1790 – 1810 time period sometimes featured reenactments of famous battles. The reenactment features militia on foot and on horses, cannons, Shawnee warriors, and British troops. It always promises to be exciting.
Premier Living History Event
Why is the Fair at New Boston recognized as a premiere living history event? All the music, entertainment, clothing, methods of cooking, foods served, merchandise booths, and equipment used by the artisans are juried (or judged) to assure authenticity to the period. It is also special because it is held on an actual historic site. The site of the Battle of Peckuwe and the Shawnee villages of Peckuwe and Kispoko and later the town of New Boston. All are now gone and are replaced by George Rogers Clark Park.
You can see some great pictures from past years at the Fair by visiting GraphicEnterprises.net,
or by visiting the Fair's site itself at:
As part of the ongoing effort to promote 'Directive #4' (our attempt to bring more gentlemen into the fold), the RSA suggests that you might consider attending:
Located at the Mississinewa Battlefield, north of Marion, Indiana
October 12 - 14, 2012
Mississinewa:1812 is planted firmly in the middle of our favorite era. This event boasts long, multiple roads filled with food, vendors and demonstrators of all sorts. The shops are flanked by huge British and American military encampments as well as Indian and River Pirate camps, with multiple battle reenactments each day. It can truly be said that this event has a little something for everyone.
From their website:
Faithful attention to authenticity has made Mississinewa 1812 the premiere living history event in Indiana. Here you will step back into the wilderness life of early Indiana Territory.
It was the morning of December 18, 1812, the morning of the Battle of the Mississinewa. Above the sound of fighting, smell of gunpowder and feel of death rose one of the most significant chapters in the War of 1812 and dramatic moments in the history of Grant County, Indiana.
Where a step back in history is measured by 200 years...
Mississinewa 1812 is the largest War of 1812 living history event in the United States. Sponsored by the Mississinewa Battlefield Society Inc, Marion, Indiana with the support of the Department of Natural Resources. It is a historical commemoration of the Battle of Mississinewa fought there on December 17-18, 1812.
The Belletrist Magazine is devoted to the Late Georgian and Regency eras and those who love them. Written and published by many of the RSA's very own... have a look!
