Back in the 18th century, the Hudson Valley was an essential transportation route, controlling the route to Canada and to the Northwest (today the Midwest). That’s why so many battles of the Revolutionary War were fought in the region: a tumultuous chapter of local history that will be vividly brought back to life by the Brigade of the American Revolution, a non-profit living history association dedicated to recreating the life of the common soldier of the period.

The Brigade will be holding its “18th-Century Market Days and Militia Muster” on the grounds of the Senate House State Historic Site – a site that couldn’t be more appropriate: The 18th-century stone building, whose assortment of historic artifacts hints at the former wealth and prestige of Kingston, played a central role in local Revolutionary War history as the place where the state’s first Senate met, just as the British were about to invade and destroy the town. The Brigade will be stationed there on Saturday, June 25 from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and on Sunday, June 26 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

There’ll be militia drills and firing demonstrations of period muskets, costumed vendors demonstrating various crafts of the period, children’s games and presentations on 18th-century food, fashion and styles; there’ll even be instruction in an 18th-century dance, so you’ll learn not only how our ancestors made war, but also their courting customs and entertainments. Several authors – Norman Desmarais, Paul Huey and Tom Baker – will be on hand for book-singings at 4 p.m. on Saturday and noon on Sunday. The Senate House will also be open for tours; admission is $4 for adults, $3 for seniors and students and free for children age 12 and under. The event is otherwise free.

One of the surprises to some will be the ethnic and political diversity of the population 225 years ago: The Brigade members impersonate not only members of the Continental Army and American Militia, but also the British and Loyalist forces, as well as German, French, Spanish and Native American fighters and civilian men, women and children.

For further information about this and other upcoming events, call the Senate House at (845) 338-2786 or visit www.nysparks.com.