Living history reenactors will bring World War One to Governors Island National Monument on Saturday and Sunday, Sept. 15 and 16, 2018. This is the largest free public WWI exhibition in the United States. Reenactors representing the Allies and Central Powers—as well as civilians in 1918-era attire—are invited living history participants. Governors Island is in New York Harbor, accessible via ferry.
The centennial of the Armistice is in 2018 and this group of volunteer reenactors will share the story of WWI participants. See living history, weapons and equipment displays, and vintage vehicles.
This is the third annual WWI event on Governors Island. The events are free, open to the public, and run 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM at Governors Island National Monument. The displays will be on the Parade Ground. Ferries run from Brooklyn and Manhattan. Ferry info here.
If you are a WWI reenactor you are welcome to attend. We will bivouac overnight Saturday night, September 15. All participants must register in advance. Only living history participants are permitted to camp overnight, no exceptions.
FAQ AND RULES (updated July 8, 2018)
More details on sponsors, participants and supporting groups is forthcoming. Direct all questions to event organizer Kevin Fitzpatrick, program director for the WWI Centennial Committee for New York City. Contact here.
Organizations/Participants:
EAST COAST DOUGHBOYS
The East Coast Doughboys is an organization of World War I reenactors. The mission is to connect the community about events in the NY, NJ, CT, and PA region. We support the living history community at events and cultural institutions. All A.E.F. impressions, women in uniform, and civilians.
LONG ISLAND LIVING HISTORY ASSOCIATION
A group of dedicated military historians whose main purpose it to educate the public about military history through educational displays of uniforms and equipment. The goal of the Long Island Living History Association is to keep history alive through the stories of our Veterans.
GENERAL PERSHING
Actor/Historian David Shuey provides the most accurate and compelling portrayal of General John Pershing. Audiences enjoy a unique experience. Shuey portrays General Pershing with his horse, Aura Lea. His first-person portrayal is lively, realistic, and interactive.
Supporting Organizations:
Governors Island National Monument (nps.gov/gois) manages 22 acres containing Fort Jay and Castle Williams. The U.S. National Park Service provides education and historic interpretation of the island.
World War One Centennial Committee for New York City is dedicated to planning, producing, and coordinating events and activities commemorating the First World War in New York City and the surrounding areas.
U.S. World War One Centennial Commission was created by Congress in 2013 to provide public outreach, education programs, and commemorative events for American involvement in World War I. The Commission was also authorized to build the new National World War I Memorial in Washington DC.