CAMDEN— On Saturday, June 18, from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m., the Troops at Camden, Maine, living history interpreters of the period 1779-1814, will be encamped on the grounds of the 1770s Thorndike Homestead in Camden. This free, family-friendly event is an opportunity for the public to learn what life was like in Midcoast Maine during the Revolutionary War period and in the years that followed.

Archeological evidence found on the grounds of the Camden-Rockport Historical Society and neighboring Merryspring Nature Center support the theory that soldiers were garrisoned in the area during the last quarter of the 18th century. The interpreters will explain the military significance of the site and the role Camden played in both the Revolutionary War and in the War of 1812.

Visitors can also learn about 18th century daily living through demonstrations and participatory activities. There will be open hearth cooking demonstrations, with samples for the public, and tours of the historic home. On the surrounding grounds, there will be soldier campfire cooking with recipes from the period, as well as flint and steel fire-starting demonstrations. Camden militia reenactors from the Revolutionary War period, as well as from the War of 1812, will show the arms and accoutrements of a local soldier. Families will be able to try out a variety of Colonial games and toys. An 18th century medical expert will discuss common ailments and treatments from the period.

The event is part of a series of encampments that will be happening one Saturday a month, through October, on the grounds of the Camden-Rockport Historical Society’s 1770’s Thorndike Homestead (formerly referred to as Conway Homestead). The homestead entrance is located on Route 1, adjacent to Hannaford on the Camden-Rockport town line.

For more information please contact the Camden-Rockport Historical Society at CRHSME@myfairpoint.net, and be sure to follow Camden-Rockport Historical Society and the Troops at Camden on Facebook.