Our last event of the year was one of our best. Most of us arrived on Friday and
set up camp by dinner time. In attendance were: Alex Ivanchishin, Eric Spaar,
Jordan Rowland, Lance Davis, Eric Bothur, Graeme Barclay, Gabe Everman, Tim Brieaddy, Kevin McClain, Nick Usenko, Nolin Jones, and Denis Messier.

The battle location and scenarios changed this year – I think most were pleased with the changes.

We were brigaded with the 33гd and 64th for both days. Both days were sunny and bright. Very large crowds turned out both days. Saturday had us recreating the Battle of Camden. The 23rd was on the right in line with the 33rd and 64th. Upon the opening cannonade from the Continentals nearly a third of the line was brought down in the initial salvos. During that fateful day in August 1780, the 33rd suffered terribly with nearly 50% casualties. Of the 324 British killed or wounded, 100 came from the 33rd. After the initial cannonade, the fallen arose to reenact the British advance. We were the strength of the British army on the right. We advanced with brisk musket fire and finally a strong bayonet charge which caused panic on the Continental left flank composed of militia, the weakest portion of the Continental line. Once they fled we turned to face the remainder of the Continentals and along with the dragoons and our left wing drove the Rebels from the field. General Gates led the retreat in full gallop towards the rear and beyond. The battle was fully narrated and from all accounts, it was quite well received.

On Sunday the Battle of Eutaw Springs, the last major engagement of the war in the Carolinas, was recreated. The battle started with the British army encamped at the edge of the battlefield (there was an actual encampment used for this scenario). We were milling about awaiting the return of a foraging party when a
member of the cavalry escort galloped back with word of the Continental advance upon our position. Being warned, the British deployed its forces. The 23rd was on the left with the 64th and others facing the first line of Continental militia which put up some heavy fire. They were replaced by a second line of NC Continentals advancing through the militia and putting forth a fierce and horrendous fire halting our advance. We fell back in an orderly fashion having suffered many casualties, including our entire NCO core. However, newly promoted LCpl McClain took over NCO duties and kept up our musket fire with the few remaining musket men until they ran out of ammunition. The officer left standing then ordered a disciplined maneuver to the rear where we regrouped with the remaining British army. The Continentals ransacked the camp whereupon Continental discipline broke down combining with the Rebels inability to dislodge our right wing causing an end to the battle with both sides claiming some sort of victory. This battle was well orchestrated with constant advancing, firing, retreating and counter firing along with artillery and cavalry integrated in between the action. The organizers did a great job. The armies followed the script perfectly, a not so common occurrence. The 23rd was quite engaged throughout and exercised to the fullest.

The company performed splendidly during both battles and made a very good impression on the crowd that ventured back to our camp to see us.

On Saturday eve, once again the organizers provided us with a Guy Fawkes Anniversary burning in effigy and a most excellent Tavern. Libations of various kinds were top notch and enjoyed by all in attendance.

Special Note:

Remains of 14 Revolutionary War soldiers were excavated at the Camden Battlefield site recently this past summer. They lay in some cases a mere six inches below the surface in seven separate locations across the battlefield. This historic discovery was announced on Veterans Day by the South Carolina Battlefield Preservation Trust (SCBPT). Archeologists and forensic scientists were called in to survey the site. They believe that 12 of the bodies are Continental soldiers from either Maryland or Delaware, one is likely a NC Loyalist and one served with the 71st Regiment of Foot, Fraser’s Highlanders. The British Embassy was informed of this discovery and I’m told the British Parliament was briefed on it as well. Planning is underway by the SCBPT, Camden area partners and the US Army for re-interment ceremonies from 20-22 April, 2023 in Camden.

If you want to read the full story: Remains of 14 Revolutionary War soldiers excavated at Camden Battlefield site