Sunday, 20 March 2005

Fairfax Battalia

The Fairfax Battalia. is a re-enactment group that recreates the military and civilian life of a company of soldiers from the period of the English Civil War (1642-1651).  The Battalia recreate a 17th century infantry company based on Sir Thomas Fairfax's New Model Army regiment c. 1645.   They can, however, also present  other periods of the English Civil War era as required - including 1642 Trained Bands and the Restoration army of 1660.  Their dedication to producing quality interpretations of military and domestic situations has won them a high reputation amongst sponsors, public and academics.  They have also obtained an excellent record of working with event organisers, TV companies and other sponsors in a thoroughly professional yet friendly manner.  The Fairfax Battalia is a partnership of four regiments belonging to  the Roundhead Association of the English Civil War Society: the regiments of  Devereux, Walton, Fox and Overton of the English Civil War Society.

The Battalia are welcome visitors to the Almonry where they present living history events (see photo above, and Carmel inspecting a musket on the right).  Any civil war re-enactment photographs that you find on this web site have been reproduced by the kind permission of the Fairfax Battalia, who retain the copyright.

Some of the factors that have proven the Battalia's reputation are:

1. Commitment to authenticity of dress and equipment. 

2. Ability to field a convincing number of troops to represent a 17th century company marching with a single colour.

3. Relaying orders by beat of drum.

4. Drill and battle tactics based on existing period manuals.

5. Maintaining a single pike division flanked by two divisions of musket fighting only at 'point of pike'.

6. Use of minimum number of officers at events (surplus officers serve as common soldiers).

7. Endeavour to improve and develop.

Visit the Fairfax Battalia website