Brien McWilliams, Re-enactor Coordinator, Reports on the 2007 Commemoration

The smoky haze has once again lifted over Fort Mims. The clamor of battle, screams of agony, and cries of victory that echoed through the forest have now faded into oblivion for yet another year. Anniversary number 194 has been faithfully presented. A small cross- section of the population has seen this stellar performance and perhaps taken home a greater understanding and appreciation of what went on in the steamy south Alabama backwoods so long ago. It is said that those who do not learn from history are destined to repeat it. Is there any more legitimate reason that we as reenactors do what we do?

It is hard to improve upon perfection, but we keep trying. I have heard nothing but rave reviews from many of you. Yes, it was a good one. One of the best. More reenactors than ever, more spectators as well. Good weather, virtually no mosquitos (wish the same could be said of the yellow jackets) and many fine people. Yes the nasty little stinging critters did mess up the good time for a few of us. Sure it was painful and all, but in every tragedy a little humor can be found. Steve Thomas stated he had never seen the militia flee the skirmish at Burnt Corn more realistically and with more enthusiasm, weapons and equipment flying in all directions. Can't help it but the mental image that brings to mind makes one chuckle. Little did the white men know that the Indians had called in an air strike. Beardog, you and the boys just can't win for losing!

The wonderful stockade walls really set off the whole stage we perform on. Thanks to the continued efforts of Davis, Martin, and the other FMRA board members, plus numerous volunteers and prison help, the Fort Mims attack was able to come through the east gate for the first time in 194 years. The settlers and militia were surrounded and forced to the center of the fort area before fleeing to the sanctuary of Patrick's Loom House. There the survivors put up a determined fight before yielding to the onslaught of superior numbers. The little fort on the Tensaw "burned" and history repeated itself, more accurately than ever.

Other highlights included our beloved plunge in Majors Creek, a fine meal from FMRA, a great trade blanket, and some of the best down home music you can find around a campfire (thanks Claudia and Darrell). Over $1,000 was raised through your generosity on the raffle of a new rifle to benefit the fort. Davis and Martin received commendations from the Governor, Farris Powell gave a wonderful talk on Creek clothing and accoutrements to the warriors, and the yellow jackets took no prisoners.

Many thanks to all of you who came, participated, and went away vowing to be back again and again. With your help Fort Mims is rising from the ashes as a lasting monument to the many who gave their lives on both sides in that historic conflict. See you again next year..."the good Lord willin' an' the Creek don't rise!"

Brien McWilliams Reenactor Coordinator

FMRA Board Member