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Contact: David Slay, 601-446-5790 ext. 19
Yes! After officially departing the Natchez District in 1798, the Spanish are coming to Natchez again! Come see Spanish colonial artillerymen, soldiers, and civilian living historians as they recreate Revolutionary Era life and material culture in their encampment at Fort Rosalie on Saturday, June 10, 2017, from 10 am to 4 pm. This event is free to the public! Step back in time as you walk through their camp. Speak with the soldiers and listen to their stories of conquest and battle under General Galvez. Watch them drill on the artillery as they remain ever vigilant for a British counter attack! Meet fur trappers and settlers who came to Natchez in canoes, flatboats, and by foot, living off the land while braving the perils of a wild and untamed river, hostile natives, dangerous highwaymen, treacherous river pirates, and warring soldiers over 240 years ago when Natchez belonged to Spain. Perhaps you have always wanted to get into reenacting and did not know how. This is a perfect opportunity to learn more about the hobby. If you are really enthused by history or enjoy acting, so much so that you want to dress up like a French Marine, a colonial settler, or a famous (or infamous) Natchez historical figure and tell people from around the world about local history, then come to the encampment speak with Park Ranger David Slay about the soon to be established Ancient and Honorable Corps of Living Historians. Perhaps you know an 18th or 19th century trade, such as blacksmithing, cordwaining, candle making, pottery, woodworking, etc., like those demonstrated at Colonial Williamsburg, then come to the encampment and speak with David Slay. You can also reach out to him by phone or e-mail. Visitors can park at the Natchez Visitor Reception Center at 640 S. Canal Street and walk to the Green Street entrance of Fort Rosalie, across from the Old South Trading Post. Or you can park along the bluff downtown and walk to Fort Rosalie along Canal St. The Fort Rosalie site at 528 South Canal Street is now open to the public from dawn until dusk every day, with picnic tables and convenient parking. For more information, please contact David Slay by phone at 601-446- 5790 ext. 19 or by e-mail at David_Slay@nps.gov, or visit nps.gov/natc. |
Last updated: June 2, 2017