Rose
and
Thistle
Members of Lace Wars: Re-enacting the 1745 Jacobite Rebellion
and the Mid 18th Century
What are we?
Rose & Thistle (RaT) are a group of experienced historical re-enactors who
portray members of British society, both civilian and military, during the
middle of the eighteenth century. From Highland Clan Chiefs to stylish English
Gentlemen, and from Peasants to Craftsmen Rose & Thistle aim to educate and
entertain the public. Our members have worked for the BBC as well as many
independent television companies. Rose & Thistle is also happy to provide
historical advice as many of our members cover several different fields of
expertise.
What do we portray?
RaT re-enact Jacobites as John Roy Stewart's Edinburgh Regiment (1745 Jacobite Rebellion). On our camp you'll find men, women and children. John Roy Stewart's (Stuart - alternative spelling) Regiment consisted of both Highlanders, Lowlanders, English and Redcoat deserters. It also had links with the Princes Lifeguard. We also have members of French Irish/Scottish units that came to Britain to support Prince Charles Edward Stuart (Bonnie Prince Charlie).
Derby 2010
We also recreate Highwaymen, Rogues, and Thief takers. At these event we usually set up an inn and estate office where members can recreate the characters of the mid 18th century and be part of an unfolding story of villainy and intrigue.
Kedleston Hall
What does Rose and Thistle do?
The simple answer would be re-enactment, however what we aim to do is educate as
well as entertain. We can set up a living history camp with tentage and displays
of both the skills and life during the middle of the eighteenth century. Our
members include experts in the weapons of the periods who can give exciting
displays of both swordsmanship and musketry. Plus within the living history
display you will find the tradesmen of the period making rope, working with
leather, and of course the essentials of providing a meal or making and mending
clothing.
Who can join Rose and Thistle?
Just about any one. If you have an interest in the eighteenth century then we
are the group for you. We welcome men, women and families and can find a role
for every one. If you have a modern day skill why not do some research - we can
help with that, and carry it out as it was done in the mid 1700's. If you prefer
you can become a Jacobite soldier or even a minister of religion! For women
there are a huge variety of roles to take on, Rose & Thistle also allows cross
dressing which means that if you want to be a soldier you can.
Highland Folk Museum Newtonmore
Where do I get my costume and what should I wear?
Rose & Thistle can put you in touch with several experts in eighteenth century
costume, or if you prefer to make your own we can advise you as to where to get
patterns and also what material to use. Of course we have a kit list but this is
a guide, however before buying or making any thing we strongly recommend you
speak to one of our officers so that they can advise you to as to what is
acceptable and what isn't.
John Roy Stuart (Stewart) cairn
How much will it cost me to join Rose and Thistle?
Membership is £5
per year for adults and free to those under 16. You must also join Lace Wars of
which RaT are part the annual fee is £10.
Culloden Visitor Centre filming
Where do Rose and Thistle hold their events?
Rose & Thistle is a member of the Lace Wars Re-enactment Society. This is an
umbrella group for mid eighteenth century re-enactors. Membership of
Lace Wars is essential as you cannot attend events unless you are a member, this
is for insurance purposes. Events are held all over Great Britain, from the
north of Scotland down to the south coast of England. You can attend as many or
as few events as you like there is no pressure to come along, but we are sure
that once you have been a couple of times you will be bitten by the bug.
What to do next.
If you think that you would like to discuss becoming a member of Rose & Thistle
please e-mail
us and we will reply giving you the phone number of one of our officers. We have
found through experience that it easier for us to explain over the phone
or at an event than it is by mail. You can be assured of a friendly and
enthusiastic response and if you decide to join you will be made to feel very
welcome. If you are from any section of the media please contact us in the same way
and we will reply to your enquiry immediately.
For an up to date list of events please check the Lace Wars web site www.lacewars.co.uk
Members of RaT will be on the Foxblade Trading stand in February 2012 at the International Living History Fair. Bruntingthorpe Proving Ground, Bath Lane, Bruntingthorpe, LE17 5QS
Links
Lace Wars www.lacewars.co.uk
Lace Wars forum (open to non members) http:/lacewars.freeforums.org/index.php
Foxblade Trading and re-enactment shoes www.foxblade.co.uk www.re-enactment-shoes.co.uk
No images from this web site may be copied or reproduced with out permission of RaT. Thanks to Geoff Buxton, Brain Austin and the members of Lace Wars for the pictures.
Last up-date 21.11.11
