July 9, 10 — HUBBARDTON, Vt. – The only Revolutionary War battle fought on Vermont soil will be honored at the annual Battle of Hubbardton Revolutionary War Encampment weekend at the Hubbardton Battlefield State Historic Site on July 9 and 10. Hundreds of reenactors gather from all over the Northeast to present this colorful, full-scale history pageant, one of the largest Revolutionary War living history weekends in northern New England.
Reenactors, who participate in Revolutionary War events from Mount Vernon to Lexington and Concord, portray the American, British, and German forces who fought the battle 239 years ago. At least 16 American and 10 British units, with about 300 participants, will be at the weekend encampment to offer the Revolutionary War sights, sounds, and scents of campfires and gunpowder. They enjoy talking with visitors and sharing their knowledge.
The weekend has activities for all ages and interests. New this year is a Saturday morning, 10 a.m., tactical near the stone wall at the top of Monument Hill and showings of reenactor Bob Franzoni’s 15 minute film, “The Voices of Hubbardton.” Visitors can walk through the camps, talk with reenactors, watch the tactical and artillery demonstrations, see camp life activities, learn how to drill, and take in guided battlefield tours. Hands-on activities for children are offered near the museum. Sutlers’ row provides as colonial shopping experience. Bruce Venter, author of the 2015 “Battle of Hubbardton” book, will give a talk and sign copies of his book. The museum is open both days, with a shop that has an excellent selection of books and other items relating to the American Revolution. Local groups provide a food stand both days.
The narrated military tacticals on the slope of Monument Hill will be held weather-permitting. Saturday’s are at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. The Sunday morning battle starts forming at 7:30 a.m.—this battle formation is the weekend’s highlight. Muskets will sound in the distance, just before the soldiers emerge over Monument Hill. Sunday’s afternoon tactical is at 1 pm. Call 802-273-2282 to confirm all times.
Admission daily is $6 for adults and free for children under 15. There is nearby parking and a “people mover” from the parking area to the visitor center.
The Hubbardton Battlefield State Historic Site is located on Monument Hill Road, 6 miles off VT Route 30 in Hubbardton, or 7 miles off exit 5 on US Route 4 in Castleton. For more information, call 802-273-2282 or visit historicsites.vermont.gov.
