That being said, if anyone asks me to do that again in January, the answer is a resounding no!

All in all, it was an incredibly worthwhile experience. It really put into perspective the respect we should hold for those who had to deal with conditions like this for real.

It also sheds light on how certain bits of kit are absolutely essential and how to keep clean in such conditions.

When in camp, we still dealt with the challenges of the extreme cold, but at least we had a hut between us and the sky. We took part in drills, lectures a church parade and finally a pay parade before our 2½ days in 1915 were up!

I was the corporal in charge of number 1 section. It was a test of endurance through our 26 hour trench phase. I had to make sure that our duties were carried out (sandbagging and sentry duties) and that the welfare of my section was looked after. I slept for less than 2 hours in this phase.

Temperatures were well below freezing for the majority of the event, adding to the drain on energy that the motions of army life already have on individuals.

We were recreating conditions faced by the 2nd West Riding Regiment (Duke of Wellingtons) 110 years ago.

It was particularly well received.

We were given the honour of taking the Spanish surrender at the end of the event as well (extra photos because it is a fantastic colour)!

(2/2) ...carried by the Scots-Dutch Brigade (brought to my attention by @profmurdoch.bsky.social back in the bird app days!)

What a weekend it was!
#livinghistory

If you are interested in women immigrants simply go to the "Simple search" & type FEMALE

This should bring up over 400 records. Of these there are about 100 robust bios.

Read about some here: www.academia.edu/44219200/Ber...
🗃
@womenknowhistory.bsky.social
@emwjournal.bsky.social

If you ever do decaf, the young or old pretender!