History alive in Hubbardton - WCAX.COM Local Vermont News, Weather and Sports-

History alive in Hubbardton

Hundreds are preparing to fight in the small town of Hubbardton, just North of Castleton. 235 years after Vermont's only revolutionary battle, the historic encounter is about to begin again.

Dave Bernier - Portrays Gen. Arthur St. Clair, he said, "This is the beginning of the nation, this is why we are what we are today."

For reenactors, the field provides a rare opportunity to relive history **on** instead of near a former battleground.

Dave Bernier said, "You feel somehow as though you might be standing in the footsteps of someone who was actually here."

Tents line the historic Hubbardton battlefield, though as the American troops fled Ticonderoga more than two centuries ago, they slept under the stars.

The union troops did not prevail that day, but their surprisingly strong showing created the momentum for future victories.

It also led Vermont to declare sovereignty-- as its own Nation -- just one day later.

"As with any major decision, there were those who were kind of on the fence, this kind of pushed them over."

Vermont would later join the Union in 1791. For current Vermonters the exhibition is a chance to interact with history

The Saunders family spent the day exploring the American and British encampments.

Essex Resident, Jim Saunders said, "We're trying to introduce Vincent to American history and this is the perfect way to do it."

Jim Saunders, a self-described history buff, says coming to a reenactment fills in some of the more mundane details left out of history books.

Visitors also have the opportunity to bring a piece of history home with them.

"We've got some 18th century settler and tradesmen here with all kinds of things that they can buy, come on out, we'll give you a history lesson you'll never forget." said Saunders.

Just don't forget your 21st century plastic.