As the United States approaches its 250th anniversary, a growing number of individuals are dedicating themselves to bringing the Revolutionary War era to life through historical reenactments. These "living historians" meticulously recreate the attire, actions, and even the sentiments of individuals from the 18th century, offering the public a tangible connection to the nation's founding.
Among them are Jack and Celeste Sherry, a couple from West Nyack, New York, who have spent nearly five decades participating in reenactment events. For this milestone year, the retirees are busier than ever, planning to engage in 80 colonial-themed performances, lectures, and meet-and-greets across the country. They often portray Benjamin Franklin and his wife, Deborah Read Franklin. Their journey into reenactment began in 1978, inspired by a magazine article about the bicentennial of the Battle of Monmouth.
Jack Sherry initially played a Loyalist soldier before dedicating himself to portraying Benjamin Franklin more than 20 years ago, after noticing a resemblance. He uses period-accurate bifocals, a walking stick, and a kite to embody the founding father, sharing stories about Franklin's life and contributions. Celeste Sherry, a retired teacher, acts as Deborah Read Franklin, a role she initially found surprising but grew to love. She often uses her spinning wheel to depict the daily tasks of a colonial woman.
"It's just an awful lot of fun bringing history to life," Celeste Sherry said. "People can see, feel, smell, hear and sometimes even taste history being created in front of them, and that's a wonderful feeling."
Voices from History
Linda Russell, a historical musician, discovered her passion for 18th-century music after a serendipitous encounter at the Theodore Roosevelt Birthplace National Historic Site in New York City. She worked as a singing tour guide for 16 years at Federal Hall, where George Washington was inaugurated, performing colonial tunes on period instruments like the penny whistle and hammered dulcimer while in costume. Russell emphasizes that music offers an emotional understanding of the past.
"Music can tell us the emotional side of history," Russell explained. "It's all about expressing feelings — it could be angry, sad, about love…I realized that you can understand the emotions of the past by singing the songs and seeing how people felt about things."
Her repertoire includes well-known songs like "Yankee Doodle" as well as lesser-known "broadsides" that served as news reports of the era. Russell finds that these songs reveal the humanity of people from the past, showcasing their joys and sorrows.
Tom Pitz, a retired school guidance counselor from Keswick, Virginia, has been portraying Thomas Jefferson for "hundreds" of events since 1987. The demand for his portrayal has increased, especially with the approaching semiquincentennial. Pitz, who was initially cast due to his height and once reddish hair, aims to bridge the gap between Jefferson's words and modern understanding.
"Once he puts the clothes on, the two personalities merge so perfectly together," said Linda Pitz, his wife, who often accompanies him and acts as his agent. "Because he's lived with this man for so long, has read his words, felt his heart and mind."
Pitz is scheduled to appear at Mount Rushmore for the annual July 4th celebration, joining actors portraying Washington, Roosevelt, and Lincoln to present on the events leading up to the Declaration of Independence.
These living historians, through their dedication and extensive research, provide an immersive experience, allowing the public to connect with American history in a unique and engaging way.