More than 1,000 re-enactors will populate the forest of western Howard County on Sept. 19-21 to bring the French and Indiana war to life as part of the 14th annual Koh-Koh-Mah/Foster Historical Encampment.

As in past years, organizer Bob Auth promises new features and plenty of excitement at the event, which is being billed as “a perfect family adventure.”

The three-day event kicks off on Friday, Sept. 19, with a school field trip day. Fourth graders from the central Indiana region will spend the day learning about French, British, and Native American culture from the 18th century, as re-enactors from all across the nation play out gun battles, set up camp, and practice the craft skills common in that time.

The public is invited to take part on Sept. 20-21 as the encampment comes alive with food, demonstrations, and a host of activities. According to re-enactor and organizer Brian Wilson, each annual encampment offers something new to see or do, and this year is no exception. At the top of the list is a unique dinner that visitors won’t want to miss.

“The re-enactors aren’t just into the battles; they’re into the lifestyle,” said Wilson. “We’ve been their guinea pigs for awhile. They’ve done a lot of research, and this year they’ll set 32 place settings with servants and have a seven-course meal in 18th century style.

“There will be officers and their orderly sergeants, with both the French and British at the table. In those days, it wasn’t uncommon for a battle to be going on, and at lunchtime, one commander would send an invitation to the other. They would meet at a tavern and have dinner.”

Wilson said the entire dinner will last nearly two hours, as the commanders exchange pleasantries and talk with their men about the ongoing conflict being played out at the encampment. The menu for the meal will be on display, and a narrator will be on hand to explain what is taking place and to answer questions.

Support Local Journalism Now, more than ever, the world needs trustworthy reporting—but good journalism isn’t free. Please support us by making a contribution. Contribute

Auth is excited about the number of demonstrations that are scheduled for the weekend. The public will be able to learn how to make handkerchiefs and powder horns and watch horse and artillery demonstrations. And for the first time in a decade, driver Jim Whelan will be on hand with his team of oxen to show how these beast of labor help early settlers farm the fields.

Other notable events taking place over the two days include a children’s parade on Saturday, plenty of period music, a Sunday morning church service, tomahawk throwing, and appearances by Chief Koh-Koh-Mah and David Foster.

Of course there will be battles. Two skirmishes between the British and French will take place on Saturday and another on Sunday, and the air will be filled with smoke and the booming of guns and cannons. To keep things interesting for re-enactors and visitors alike, Wilson said that one of the fights will be played out as a battle of opportunity, where the outcome will be determined on the field instead of by a script.

And Auth is enthused about the stories that will set the stage for each battle.

“We’re going to include a firing of a guard shack to kick off one of the battles,” said Auth. “A native will come in, attack the shack, run off the guard, and set it on fire. It will be exciting. Anytime you can add a little flavor, that makes it fun.”

Tickets for the encampment are $6 for adults and $5 for seniors and children. Children under age 5 are admitted free. For additional information and directions to the encampment, visit www.kohkohmah.com.