ONE of the nation’s most significant battles is set to be fought again this weekend, with an action-packed programme of historical recreations.
The Battle of Prestonpans Re-enactment Weekend will be held on the town’s Greenhills on Saturday and Sunday, 11am to 4.30pm both days, bringing to life the dramatic events of 1745.
The Battle of Prestonpans was the first battle of the last Jacobite uprising, and saw an army of Highlanders charge to an unexpected victory against the Redcoat forces loyal to King George II. The Jacobite army was led by the exiled prince Charles Edward Stuart, better known today as Bonnie Prince Charlie.
And just as happened in 1745, this year’s Jacobite prince will be leading his men into battle for the very first time.
The role of Prince Charlie will be played by Aidan Riley, 19, from Musselburgh, who has been preparing for the challenge through historical research, costumed performances at smaller events, and even riding lessons.
Reflecting on his part in the coming action, Aidan said: “I’ve always been interested in the history local to my area, and from a young age often went to see the reenactments at Prestonpans.
“The prince is an incredibly influential figure in Scottish history, casting a long shadow, and that feels like a lot to live up to.
“The re-enactment community is very supportive, and I feel I can bring a balanced portrayal of the prince’s character.”
As well as leading the Jacobites into battle, visitors to the weekend’s events will be able to meet Bonnie Prince Charlie – and his rival Johnnie Cope – in their historic encampments from 11am to 4.30pm each day. Both commanders will also hold a council of war with their officers, where visitors can listen in as the crucial decisions are made, as part of the immersive experience of the encampments.
In the arena, there will be military drill displays, cannon fire demonstrations, and an impressive display of horsemanship and mounted skill-at-arms. There will also be children’s crafts, a fun ‘Junior Jacobites’ training session, and an exhibition about the battle held in the main marquee.
The event is hosted by two charities, the Battle of Prestonpans (1745) Heritage Trust and the Scottish Battlefields Trust, who hope the re-enactments will raise awareness and understanding of the battle’s importance.
Lead organiser Dr Arran Johnston said: “At the Battle of Prestonpans Museum, we do a lot of fantastic work with schoolchildren. Now, this is an opportunity for what they’ve been learning to really come to life, making history as inspiring and exciting as possible.
“We also make a lot of effort to reflect that we are commemorating a real event and each day will begin with an act of remembrance for the soldiers of both sides in 1745.”
The Battle of Prestonpans re-enactment brings together re-enactors from different societies right across the country. This year, there will be cannons travelling from Northern Ireland and specially trained horses from the north of England. The result is believed to be the largest re-enactment of this period of history, and a dramatic visual spectacle.
The daily timetable is: 11am – camps open; 11.30am – opening ceremony; 12pm – Jacobite army in review; 12.30pm – Redcoat manoeuvres; 1pm – artillery display; 1.30pm – cavalry display; 2pm – Junior Jacobites; 2.15pm – General Cope’s council of war; 2.30pm – Prince Charlie’s council of war; 3pm – Battle of Prestonpans; 3.40pm – Lament for the Fallen; 4.30pm – Camps close.
Entry for adults is £5, juniors (6-15) £3, and those aged five and under free. To find out more, and to book tickets, visit battleofprestonpans1745.org/reenactment
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