America's 250th Anniversary Sparks Surge in George Washington Reenactments

The semiquincentennial of the United States has created a banner year for historical reenactors, particularly those portraying George Washington. John Koopman III, who began reenacting nearly three decades ago, now performs full-time after retiring from an alternative energy company. He recently set a personal best with three events in one weekend, traveling between sites with his horse Bear. Koopman commissioned a friend who was a tailor at Mount Vernon for an authentic uniform, and his dimensions match Washington's exactly. Manager Brad Fay, whose ancestor served under Washington, booked 31 events from May through July 4, including popular evening dinners with 13 toasts for the 13 colonies. At Mount Vernon, first-person interpreter Doug Thomas, who has played Washington for seven years, engages students on class trips, discussing Washington's horses, religion, and his stance against bigotry. Thomas also performs at corporate events, such as a financial group in New York City, where he speaks about Washington's branding lessons. The encampment in Millstone Township, New Jersey, included a hospital tent, farm animals, and a portrayal of enslaved cook Hannah Till by Leslie Bramlett, who highlights the 850 women and children encamped with Washington at Valley Forge. Mount Vernon CEO Doug Bradburn notes that even Washington's Cabinet had political divisions, emphasizing the need for tolerance.