I returned home yesterday evening feeling very tired, but feeling privileged to have taken part in one of the best re-enactment events that I can remember.
We all know that the main object of such an event are the various historical spectacles, mock battles etc. which attract both the re-enactors and the spectators, but good events include so much more.
Among the events at Austerlitz 2004 we had an excellent battle at Santon on Saturday with over 7000 spectators. The movements of the troops were wonderful to watch, and the burning buildings added to the whole impression.
The torchlit procession and the music and fireworks on Saturday evening in the crowded town square were very atmospheric.
Perhaps the most impressive thing about the weekend however was the incredible organization and logistics which had so evidently been put into the event.
This was only equaled by the warm comradeship of friends from all over Europe who came together for what can only be described as an International Napoleonic Festival!
Certainly many of the press representatives to whom I spoke over the weekend were most impressed by the whole event, and I am sure that they, like myself, look forward to what will be an even bigger celebration in 2005. The organizers are already working on sponsorship and have expressed hopes that they can attract members from the United Kingdom, USA, Australia, New Zealand, for the Celebrations in 2005. There is even interest from Chinese enthusiast ! A truly International Festival!
To the organizers, and especially to Mr. Miroslav Jandora, President of the Project Austerlitz 2005, I say – Thank You!
We all know that the main object of such an event are the various historical spectacles, mock battles etc. which attract both the re-enactors and the spectators, but good events include so much more.
Among the events at Austerlitz 2004 we had an excellent battle at Santon on Saturday with over 7000 spectators. The movements of the troops were wonderful to watch, and the burning buildings added to the whole impression.
The torchlit procession and the music and fireworks on Saturday evening in the crowded town square were very atmospheric.
Perhaps the most impressive thing about the weekend however was the incredible organization and logistics which had so evidently been put into the event.
This was only equaled by the warm comradeship of friends from all over Europe who came together for what can only be described as an International Napoleonic Festival!
Certainly many of the press representatives to whom I spoke over the weekend were most impressed by the whole event, and I am sure that they, like myself, look forward to what will be an even bigger celebration in 2005. The organizers are already working on sponsorship and have expressed hopes that they can attract members from the United Kingdom, USA, Australia, New Zealand, for the Celebrations in 2005. There is even interest from Chinese enthusiast ! A truly International Festival!
To the organizers, and especially to Mr. Miroslav Jandora, President of the Project Austerlitz 2005, I say – Thank You!
David Banks
Hon.
Hon.