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Easton Community Turns Out For Revolutionary War Re-Enactment

EASTON, Conn. – A sunny September day served as a perfect backdrop Sept. 19 as state Sen. Tony Hwang (R-28) joined the community and the Historical Society of Easton for a Revolutionary War Re-enactment of the Burning of Morehouse Farm.

State Sen. Tony Hwang at the re-enactment.

State Sen. Tony Hwang at the re-enactment.

Photo Credit: Contributed

The story goes, according to the Society’s website, that “On July 18, 1782, Lt. Ebenezer Morehouse along with five other men were taken prisoner by a British raiding party of approximately 60 men who landed at Compo Beach, Westport. The raiding party was bent on plunder and destruction. Morehouse so irritated his captors that the British marched to his farm and burned it.”

Four regiments of British and Continental Patriot troops (totaling more than 100 armed and uniformed men), horses and cannons were on the site for the two-day celebration to re-create the historical event. In addition, costumed actors dressed in period fashion demonstrated camp life, cooking, Colonial crafts and surgery throughout both days.

“The Historical Society of Easton did a great job creating this celebration,” Hwang said. “The citizens of this town are fortunate to be able to experience an authentic re-enactment of this nature in their own backyard.”

According to Emlyn Duemmler, who heads up marketing and public relations for the Historical Society of Easton, organizers hope to make this an annual event. 

“Though this is just our first year, we hope to keep building momentum and have another great reenactment next year,” Duemmler said.

Tom Sephen, who participated in the event as a member of Fifth Connecticut, explained that the primary goal is education.

“Many reenactments just focus on the battles,” Sephen said. “With our event, we want to emphasize the education of the public. Every participant can showcase their individual skills, from surgeons to spies to tavern keepers. It truly is a great event.”

Hwang said that supporting the Historical Society of Easton is important to him. 

“It is a great way to preserve the fascinating and rich history of the town of Easton. You can see how passionate the volunteers are about what they do,” he said.

Duemmler also expressed her appreciation for the people who came to the event and who take an interest in history. “We are truly dedicated to our mission,” she said.

Formed in 1968, the Historical Society of Easton’s mission is to keep the people of Easton and nearby communities connected with the past through events and education about the town’s history and the history of its people.

Hwang summed up his thoughts on the event this way: “This weekend was the perfect blend of history, community, education and fun. I encourage locals to learn more about the Historical Society and to support its important mission.”

Katie Owens is a junior at Fairfield Ludlowe High School and the Assistant Editor of the school newspaper.

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