By Becky Robinette Wright
The couple stood close together, the lady with a stylish black English dress and the gentleman with blue-colored colonist attire. The lady gave a last look around with a faraway look in her eyes. Perhaps she was dreaming of the new land she would see or was solemn at the thought of leaving her family, friends, and homeland. Pocahontas, the Powhatan Indian girl known in English circles as Lady Rebecca, and her husband John Rolfe were preparing to set sail from the Citie of Henricus to England.
It’s Sept. 17, and Henricus Publick Day has begun. In addition to Pocahontas and John Rolfe’s story being re-enacted, the opportunity to view life like scenarios of over 400 years of history is available at Henricus Park.
The captivating experience transports one back to 1611.
The Henricus Militia can be seen marching and guarding the settlement, their drum echoing through the park. In the nearby Arrohateck Indian site, Native American historical interpreters are busy burning out and scraping a large felled tree that soon will be a dugout canoe, and a native woman cooks a meal over an open fire. The scent of meat roasting and the Appone cakes cooking make one’s mouth water in anticipation of the delicious traditional native food. Nearby, the longhouse or “yehakin” beckons to the curious to enter and see the center warming and cooking fire as well as, the furs, pottery and gourds that enable the natives to survive.
Since Henricus offers over 400 years of history, during special events one may view soldiers of different eras, such as Union and Confederate soldiers or Redcoats and local militia. The guns are not silent as demonstrations are given by firing the cannon on the bluff, and soldiers firing their guns.
A blacksmith steadily works pounding iron. A Colonial doctor is nearby with his traveling medicine kit; there were no ambulances in the 1600s.
Authentic time period buildings stand ready for exploring at the park, including Mt. Malady, the first hospital, an Ordinary and a church.
The community came together Saturday for a trip back into history and they were not disappointed. Henricus has programs for home schoolers, campers, Scouts, and for those who just want to visit. For more information Henricus.org
