The 23rd returned to Camden to reenact the Battles of Camden and Cowpens and close out the year with our end of season dinner. Attendance was very good despite several last minute cancellations. The 23rd fielded 2 officers, 4 Sjts, 3 musicians and 15 muskets. The usual suspects from CA and AZ traveled far once again to support the Crown.
On Friday, after camp was established, we convened at Historic Camden Tavern for our end of season dinner and awards program. We enjoyed chicken wings, sides and drinks along with a birthday cake commemorating the 250th anniversaries of the Army, Navy and Marine Corps. Music provided by Shane Watson and Lance Davis. Songs were sung and presentations made for Campaign Awards to Jordan Rowland and Kevin McClain (1 st oak leaf) for incredible sustained attendance over the last three years.
Also two cannon trophies representing artillery captured at Guilford Courthouse (2024) and Mt Vernon (2025) were presented on behalf of the regiment to the Silver Collection. Both were credited to 23rd by British Brigade.
The 23rd , the largest Crown unit, along with 33rd, 64th and NC Volunteers made up one of the two British battalions. Other battalion consisted of Von Bose Regt, British Legion, Various Jaeger units and Royal Artillery (3 guns).
Saturday battle was a recreation of Cowpens. One of the more complicated scripted events where British attacked three lines of defense, stop and go action, dragoons, flanking moves, wild bayonet charge ending in massive counter-volley fire from withdrawing rebels wiping out the British bayonet charge and ending in our battalion being surrounded and mass surrender.
In the end, we reformed Continental and Crown forces in front of the crowd for ceremonial volley fires.
In the evening there was the Guy Fawkes parade and burning in effigy, bon fire and most excellent Tavern provided by the Camden sponsors for British and Rebel jollification. Our lads took advantage of the various snacks and libations offered.
Sunday we formed up, a few men short, for the traditional battle of Camden scenario. Jack carried the Kings Colors and Denis LeMay the Regimental colors
(aka Sjt. Lamb).
There was a PBS film crew on site so pretty sure we were highlighted. Believe everyone had a grand ole time. Kathy and Allen Hughes once again provided the hospitality of their Tavern which formed the center piece of our food program/kitchen and area to relax before and after battles.
Andrew Nedelka (23rd Fusilier) and his wife Pat even stopped by on their way home from Florida to attend the Friday night dinner. Additionally, we fielded 3 new recruits in ranks and recruited 2 new guys (Brian Reynolds and his son Wilson and Matt Oxley, an Army soldier stationed at Ft Bragg). Great way to end the year.
