PLATTSBURGH, N.Y. -
This is not your ordinary boot camp in Plattsburgh.
"I think everyone probably wants to live in a different time period of their own," says Margaret Empsall of Chatageauy Lake.
This boot camp is not designed to whip people into physical shape, but to get them ready for battle.
"I have always wanted to do re-enactments so I figured this would be a good learning experience and a good way to get into re-enacting," says William Votra of St. Regis Falls.
Numerous re-enactments are held in Plattsburgh each year -- the biggest is the recreation of the Battle of Plattsburgh. Thousands watch as local militiamen stop the British Invasion -- a decisive turning point in the War of 1812.
"Living history is a very effective way of getting people to understand the past," says Craig Russell with the Battle of Plattsburgh Association.
The boot camp is part of the county's destination master plan to help keep the past alive with volunteers and offer something unique to tourists. During this boot camp, these future re-enactors learned about drill marching and firing a musket.
"I thought I would jump a foot in the air, but it wasn't that bad," Empsall says.
The future re-enactors also learned the difficult process of starting a fire like soldiers did 200 years ago.
The fire was needed to prepare lunch.
"The amount of time to make a stew just boggles my mind," Votra says.
The day concluded with cannon fire.
A trip back in time these future re-enactors hope to bring to life.
"What better way to get prepared for it then get involved in the action," Empsall says.
"I've had the time of my life," Votra says.
Several more boot camps are planned for this summer. For more information, visit www.champlain1812.com.
