Follow the Life of a Lexington, MA Reenactor
August 14, 2024
Do you ever wonder what it’s like to be a Lexington reenactor? Here is everything you should know about reenactors in Lexington, MA from what they do, what the job means to them, and where you can find them.
What Does A Lexington Reenactor Do?
A reenactor is an individual who participates in the reenactments of historical events. There can be two approaches to reenactors; some actors offer a first-person interpretation where the actor plays a specific character while other actors provide a third-person interpretation where they are not committed to a historical character. However, they are still dressed in the time period. Those who pursue this career must have a great stage presence and a deep love of history.
In Lexington, MA reenactors take on the colonial characters during the time of the American Revolution. Actors will play famous Patriots like Paul Revere or British soldiers like General Gage.
What It Means To Be A Reenactor In Lexington
Those who decide to become a reenactor in Lexington have pride in American History and the town of Lexington. For instance, Paul Revere reenactor Thomas Fenn followed in his father’s footsteps to participate in Lexington reenactments for the Revolutionary War.
Sarah McDonough is the Programs Manager at the Lexington Historical Society but has just joined the ranks as a reenactor. For Sarah, this is a perfect opportunity for her to share the history of the Battles of Lexington and Concord in real time. “There is something truly fascinating and unique about being in the place where something like this happened,” she explains. “When you hear the British drums coming up the street and you see that line of soldiers, it feels real. It transports you back into time.” Watch the interview below for more insight into Sarah’s time as a reenactor.
Where You Can Find Reenactors In Lexington
As Lexington gets ready to celebrate Lex250, you’ll find many events where you can watch historical reenactors in action. Past events include the launch of Lex250 Celebrations in April 2024, where the Bicentennial Band presented a Countdown-to-250 Concert. On July 15, 2024, Lexington celebrated Captain Parker’s 295th birthday where there were historical reenactments, music, activities, and food.
Upcoming events include the 200th Anniversary Lafayette Reenactment where actors will reenact General Lafayette’s 1824 visit. Explore the Lexington Minutemen, a group of actors who reenact the Battle of Lexington, Parker’s Revenge, and the Civilian Evacuation of the Town of Lexington. On tours, you’ll find guides, dressed in colonial attire. While they may not present as a certain character, they do offer a third-person presentation.
Discover historical reenactments in Lexington and visit today!
