Saratoga National Historical Park w/pictures!

Fishr · 2006-10-10T02:20:58Z

Howdy all! So, those who've been reading my blog are aware that It took a trip down to Saratoga, New York to check out the actual Battlefield in 1777. I was a very broad war, with many "mini battles." The participants - British - Simon Fraser, Gen. John Specht and Gen. Burgoyne, who was the commanding officer, and their Hessian allys. The "rebel" army - Danial Morgan and his Virgina milita Sharpshooters, Gen. Benedict Arnold (the commanding officer of the engagement), Enoch Poor, Gen. Ebenezer Learned, John Glover, John Patterson, and John Nixon. I've probably forgotten a few, but those are the ones I remember. Man, all I can say is, it was mega cool! The area is one of the most historically preserved sites in the States, and the prettiest. Leave it to the Brits to encamp in the more serene areas, lol! Also, there was a British Regiment - the re-created 24th Regiment of Foot, a group of humble New Yorkers who are as fond of the period as me, if not more so. In the group of men, I met up with a gentleman that is quickly becoming a good friend of mine, whom you will read about in an article I will also provide. Right before I left to finish my tour, a group of reporters apparently came by and my friend and a woman (a "campfollower") by the name of Laura, who I also had the pleasure to meet, was also in the article. Here's the link: http://www.timesunion.com/AspStories/story.asp?storyID=523919&category=SARATOGA&BCCode=HOME&TextPage=2 Inside the Visitor center, before taking the full tour, I took a few pictures of actual artifacts. I apologize for my lack of photography skills and the glare. The camera I was using didn't have the option of killing the flash. How about those hair brushes? Yikes! http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v622/raizenhell/IM001042.jpg I have forgotten what this was, but I took a picture because it looked barbaric, LOL! http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v622/raizenhell/IM001041.jpg http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v622/raizenhell/IM001040.jpg http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v622/raizenhell/IM001039.jpg One of the many battles and on a farm, not far from the Nielson's Farm actually. The Nielson Farm was just up the "ridge," (north actually). If you look at the pics, you'll see a faint path, and the posts; those were where the actual British soldiers were standing 230 years ago. The left of the Asa Chatfield Farm http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v622/raizenhell/IM001071.jpg The right of Chatfield's Farm http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v622/raizenhell/IM001070.jpg http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v622/raizenhell/IM001069.jpg http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v622/raizenhell/IM001066.jpg A cartoon of the Nielson Farm in 1777. http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v622/raizenhell/IM001056.jpg The actual Nielson Farm; the original house and foundation still standing 230 years ago! Apparently this house served as headquarters to Arnold, and other "Patriot" leaders of the War, as well housing eight children, John Nielson and his wife - all in one house! Yikes!! Another interesting fact, long before Arnold turned "traitor" when the ancestors of the Nielsons' took over the property in the early 1800's, the family made no mention of him but only the officers of the Continental Army that stayed in the house. They simpley didn't want to admit nor acknowledge Benedict Arnold slept within the walls. The Nielson House from afar. I wanted the tree in the picture because it was probably as old as the house was. http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v622/raizenhell/IM001055.jpg Side shot. http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v622/raizenhell/IM001059.jpg Closer shot. http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v622/raizenhell/IM001054.jpg Inside of the house. Now, we weren't allowed to step inside, which is perfectly acceptable. A historical landmark that old deserves the up most respect and it would be a real shame to have anything damaged. Because of the 24th camping nearby, the house was setup as if a military regiment was occupying it. This is to the right of the room. The picture doesn't show it, but inside the fireplace, there is a long medal hook with a wood hand piece. The purpose of the hook was to, well cook your meals, and the hand piece was set in the center of it, and used as a means of moving the hook towards or away from the fire so you didn't burn yourself. http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v622/raizenhell/IM001052.jpg http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v622/raizenhell/IM001048.jpg http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v622/raizenhell/IM001047.jpg Middle. http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v622/raizenhell/IM001049.jpg Left. http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v622/raizenhell/IM001050.jpg http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v622/raizenhell/IM001052.jpg I should also mention, there was a loft up stairs, which is probably where the children slept. There is also no mention of slaves being used on the Nielson Farm. http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v622/raizenhell/IM001057.jpg Adjacent from the house, there is a spectacular monument, in remembrance of the fallen soldiers - identified but will always be remembered by generations to come. http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v622/raizenhell/IM001060.jpg http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v622/raizenhell/IM001045.jpg What the tablet says on the monument: http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v622/raizenhell/IM001044.jpg Another tablet near the house itself: http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v622/raizenhell/IM001063.jpg A cannon on the Nielson property. There were actually many of these scattered about. One, which I didn't take a picture of, was forged in Boston, C1753. http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v622/raizenhell/IM001058.jpg A interesting picture, also on the property. http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v622/raizenhell/IM001065.jpg The best for last, just to whet your interests when I have the rest of my photos developed. This is shot of the encampment, and the woman walking ahead of me is my mom. :) When I have the rest of my picture developed, I have where my friend, Dave, is standing next to my left, and me grinning, shooting the "hang loose" sign. I met Dave originally online where I was posting facts about the Revolution, and, on a series that aired on the History Channel called The Revolution. I guess I made a strong impression because Dave willingly admitted he enjoyed my posts of the 18th Century, and that was the beginning of being exposed to "living history." I finally got the chance to meet Dave, face to face, back in Ticonderoga, New York in mid September. He was dressed as Royal Navy in "slops." The encampment from afar http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v622/raizenhell/IM000003.jpg Here's a link to the Royal Regiment of Whales (AKA the 24th.) The Regiment is still alive and kicking, which some are not, such as the 51st Reg't of Foot - departed in the 60's. I forgot the actual date but you can run a search on Wikipedia. Type in "51st Regiment of Foot" or "Kings Own Yorkshire Light Infantry" Royal Navy The re-created 24th's site: http://www.24thfoot.org. The whole group is really friendly, and if you live within the area, I highly suggest checking out one of their events. It's a lot of fun for sure, because everyone there shares the same interest on some grounds as you. Next year, there's going to be a big huzzah on the Saratoga Battlefield. The reason? 2007 and 1777, any connection yet? :) Yes, there will be a HUGE gathering of reenactors from different regiments. It'll be awesome!! A [url=http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Battle_of_Saratoga[/url]link to an article about the actual battle itself. There is a little know historical fact that concerns Horatio Gates and Arnold. The two DID NOT get along; Gates stealing the glory and taking credit for Arnold's accomplishments. These series of events were a slap to Arnold, who entered the War, not to assist specifically, but for his own selfish morals. He, like Gates, wanted to seek glory and make a name for themselves; become famous so to speak. In this article, you will read that Arnold was shot in the leg, and later was relieved by his commanding officer - General Gates - Ut- oh! Well, I hope you enjoy the small portion I supplied, and there will be more, as soon as the buggers are developed. Any questions, by all means feel free to ask. I can't promise I'll know all the answers but I do the best to my ability. Many thanks for taking the time in looking through and sharing a portion of the day with me. :)

Myth

Gender

Points 890

Reviews 820

Fri Oct 13, 2006 9:22 am

Myth says... · Fri Oct 13, 2006 9:22 am

I want to go :cry:

! It looks fun and I always miss out on historical events/fairs. The colouring of the photos make it look almost surreal/dreamy or am I the only one with the weird vision.

I ought to try and write something set in 18th C. America and I'll have to "pester" you with questions, like Samuel. :wink:

.: ₪ :.

'...'

Quote

Fishr

Gender

Points 42

Reviews 368

Fri Oct 13, 2006 11:45 am

Fishr says... · Fri Oct 13, 2006 11:45 am

I want to go ! It looks fun and I always miss out on historical events/fairs. The colouring of the photos make it look almost surreal/dreamy or am I the only one with the weird vision.

Perhaps it's the gun powder giving off that "dreamy" appearance?

I'm very sorry you missed out on the event or fairs, Myth, but as they say, there's always next year!

I ought to try and write something set in 18th C. America and I'll have to "pester" you with questions, like Samuel.

Well, I'll try and not be a "Welcome" then, LOL! In all honesty, it's great that you're taking to the period, and I guess I have a minor sense of pride for fullfilling that interest within you.

But no, by all means ask whatever you want, and what I don't know, I'll drag out my notes, books, research the Net, or call upon others far more knowledgeble than I for help. Currently, I'm versed in the pre-years and not so much in the wars. That'll change VERY quickly though. By 2007, I'll be familer with all the armies, mechanics of war and the battles.

When I return from my job, I'll have the rest of the photos put up, but right now, time to get ready.

The sadness drains through me rather than skating over my skin. It travels through every cell to reach the ground. I filter it yet strangely enough, I keep what was pure and it is the dirt that leaves.

Quote

Myth

Gender

Points 890

Reviews 820

Fri Oct 13, 2006 1:15 pm

Myth says... · Fri Oct 13, 2006 1:15 pm

I honestly can't see you as Welcome, you're much more informative.

I'm going to make sure I'm ready next summer for all events.

.: ₪ :.

'...'

Quote

About / Info

Forums & RPG

Literary

Resources