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Battle of Fort Washington Reenacted at Fort Tryon Park

By DNAinfo Staff on November 15, 2010 12:50pm

By Paul Lomax

Special to DNAinfo

WASHINGTON HEIGHTS — Fort Tryon Park reverted to its origins Sunday as an historical Army campsite during the American Revolution as more than a hundred people gathered to mark the 234th Anniversary of the pivotal Battle of Fort Washington.

The day featured live musket fire by the Brigade of the American Revolution, actors hosting walking tours, a blacksmith plying his trade and a military lecture by local historian Barnet Schecter.

Event organizer Steve Simon, who brought the historical battle back to life after 28 years, was thrilled with the turnout.

"This is a significant historical event. I am so happy to be part of this," said Simon, "It’s a great pleasure to communicate history using real life examples."

Also up front and on duty was Commander Alan Morrison Jr., taking charge of the Brigade of the American Revolution.

"I love to make people aware of what this battle meant for the freedom of America. I admired what these men endured, their courage and the conditions they fought in as a minority fighting against a huge British majority."

Hitting another historical note was seventh generation Master Blacksmith Bill Fitzgerald who was demonstrating how the colonists created household tools and weapons.

"I love this event! It’s a great opportunity to educate all the public, particularly the children," Fitzgerald explained. "I like to show how things were made back in those days."

Actor Erin McGuirk conducted a walking tour of the battlefield playing the role of Margaret Cochran Corbin, the wife of fallen General John Corbin.

"As an actor I love history. This is a great role to play," said McGuirk, "It’s a battle and I take charge of a cannon. It’s great to play a heroine."

Washington Heights residents Sarah Carosi and pal Veronica Bainbridge chimed in saying, "This is such a fun event. It’s historical and really great for the kids. "

Also amid the smoke, bullets and historical resonance local residents enjoyed the Celtic hymns of bagpiper Jerry Dixon.

"For me these events bring history alive," Dixon said. "I love connecting with people ... this will always be better than the Internet and computer games."