BECOME A  Reenactor AT
OLD FORT nIAGARA

We are often asked by visitors, "How do you get involved in the fascinating world of living history?"  There are several ways to accomplish this. If you are interested in becoming an historical interpreter (a person who works at an historic site sharing the site's history with visitors) please visit our volunteer page under "Join Us." Old Fort Niagara can always use volunteers who wish to portray soldiers or civilians from the Fort's past. We can provide guidance in obtaining the necessary uniform/clothing and equipment as well as the training you will need to become an effective and safe interpreter.

If you would like to get involved in the hobby of reenacting, we suggest that you become a reenactor as a member of a reenactment unit. Reenactment units are volunteer organizations that present living history events at historic sites throughout North America. Most of Old Fort Niagara's special events like the French and Indian War Encampment, Soldiers of the Revolution and the War of 1812 Encampment feature reenactment units that have been invited to camp and perform at the site. Most reenactment units portray a specific impression from a specific time period. For example, one local unit portrays French artillery from the French and Indian War period. Another portrays British regulars from the era of the American Revolution.

To determine which reenactment unit to join, you should first decide upon the time period and historical impression that interests you the most. Here at the Fort we host units that portray 17^th century, French and Indian War, American Revolution, War of 1812, Civil War and World War Two. Is your interest military or civilian? What nationality interests you the most? French, British, American, Native? Once you decide these questions, we can help you find the unit that best suits your interests.

Send us an email summarizing your interests and we'll gladly refer you to the appropriate unit. Send your request to [email protected]