News Release

Military Saber Training Program Returns to Fort Vancouver National Historic Site

Date: September 22, 2021
Contact: Elaine Dorset, 360-558-0828

Beginning in October 2021, Fort Vancouver National Historic Site and Academia Duellatoria will offer training sessions in 19th century military saber methods and drills. Participants in this seven-week program will learn about the daily lives of US Army dragoons and how this distinctive weapon was used.

In December of 1855, nearly 100 troops and officers of the US Army’s 1st Regiment of Dragoons arrived at Fort Vancouver to help keep peace in the region. Dragoons were mounted infantry who carried a variety of personal weaponry, including sabers, a single-edged, slightly curved sword.

“We are pleased to be able to bring this program back with additional Covid safety protocols. Drills for sword work naturally require distancing, so this is a great way to get exercise, learn military history, and do something fun and unusual on your own or with your family,” said Elaine Dorset, National Park Service Supervisor of the Saber Training Program.

The training course is held on Sunday afternoons over seven weeks, October 17 through November 28, 2021. The cost is $100.00 per person and is open to ages 12 and up. Training sabers and safety equipment are provided, but all participants are required to bring and wear their own mask meeting Covid safety protocols. The sessions take place at Fort Vancouver National Historic Site. To learn more, click here.