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Friday, May 18, 2012
Living past in the
History comes alive during Fort Rodd Hill encampment Kyle Wells News staff
It’s a chance for history buffs to geek out and for history novices to learn plenty. Usually peaceful, with only the wind off Esquimalt Lagoon normally breaking the calm, Fort Rodd Hill will come alive during this weekend’s 16th annual Historic Military Encampment. Marquee and bell tents spring up throughout the grounds of Fort Rodd Hill and Fisgard Lighthouse National Historic Sites. Military vehicles from a variety of periods are on display and men and women in historic military garb live at the fort just as soldiers once would have. Many historical periods will be represented, including the War of 1812, which is being recognized for its 200th anniversary this year. There will be an emphasis on the Second World War, but military history right up until the 1950s will come alive.
Kyle Wells/News staff
Keshia Palm, Young Canada Works student, drives interpretive officers Jon Barss, left, and Bob Campbell in a 1942 Willys jeep that will be a part of Fort Rodd Hill’s 16th annual Historic Military Encampment this weekend. One of the highlights of the equipment on display is the Canadian Military Pattern (CMP) truck, which is a Second World War era transport truck that has been used throughout the world at one point or another. The vehicles are now quite rare, but two are coming over from the mainland to be at the fort for the weekend. “They were one of Canada’s greatest contributions to the war effort,” King said. “It’s a very beloved, collectable vehicle if you can get your hands on it.” One of the fort’s buildings will be made up as a canteen from the Royal Garrison Artillery period, which ran from
1899 to 1906. Food reflectA crowd favourite is the ing rations from the period firearm demonstrations, WHEN: will be available. which run until the end May 19-20, On the fort’s grounds, of September but will be 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. larger than usual during the costumed participants representing the different time encampment. Second World period will be set up by era War era guns will be fired, WHERE: and give demonstrations using blanks, in a temporary 630 Fort Rodd and talks to visitors. range. The fort’s Bren light Hill Rd. “As you walk through the machine gun will be among site you’ll be going through the firearms demonstrated, the usual rolling meadows, daily at 2 p.m. but you’ll come across little different The encampment runs May 19 and 20, enclaves representing different periods from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Regular admission of history,” King said. “This is really a park prices apply. No pets allowed. labour of love for these people.” news@goldstreamgazette.com
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