His Majesty’s Marines participated in the Chestertown Tea Party re-enactment and festival this past Saturday, May 28, 2011. There were literally thousands of spectators in attendance, and the entire town seemed involved with dozens of booths lining the sidewalks. The Washington Post captured the event in photos. The Marines joined their friends, the Maryland Loyalists, setting up a small camp behind the Customs House, on High Street, right by the Chester River and the HMS Sultana (stand in tea ship). The Marines also supported the Mount Harmon Plantation booth in town, helping to promote both their site and the upcoming fall national Rev War event to be held there September 24-25. The Marines talked to numerous tourists, both about the Marines and the Mount Harmon event. Later, the Marines formed with the Maryland Loyalists to try and turn away an angry mob storming a tea carrying cargo ship. While it was a hot day, Sergeant Wilson and the Marines held the left flank of the line. The mob, led by some armed rebels from the 1st and 6th Maryland Regiments, pressed down the street to the wharf. After exchanging a few volleys with the rebels, the Maryland Loyalist officer leading the His Majesty’s troops, wisely decided to withdraw instead of causing greater bloodshed and anger. A good time was had by all. Join us at our next event at Colonial Williamsburg, June 25 and 26. Hopefully, it will be cooler. God Save the King!
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Marines forming up to face the Tea Party mob on the USS Sultana |
