Photos: Living History Through Revolutionary War Encampment

Students at  got to live through the Revolutionary War period on Tuesday as they participated in the largest encampment at their school.

Dressed in uniforms, the fourth grade students marched in their ranks, carried muskets, bags, set up tents, "fought a war" by singing songs and took various workshops to learn more about what life was like during that time period.

By "living history," students not only learn the material they're taught in the classroom, but also remember it.

Living History is a method of teaching that is based on immersing the students into various historical settings. They experience it first hand by wearing the clothing, doing the daily chores, such as food preparation, marching or home industry.

On Tuesday, students participated in workshops, such as tin making, colonial songs, colonial cooking and gardening, military artillery, medicine, espionage, and sewing. Students also kept journals of their experiences. 

"This hands on experience gets them a little closer to reality," said Lana Sinagra, who was one of the parents helping at the event. "They're part of that time now. I think it stays with them longer. This generation, it will help them so much, especially in the world today and how we continue to fight for the freedom of our nation."

Their teacher John Pastore, who has been organizing the encampment for the last 10 years, got the idea through a former professor of his while he was taking a graduate course, "Teaching the American Revolution." Since the first encampment a decade ago, only 20 students could participate, but the interest in student participation has skyrocketed. 

Pastore said he wanted the kids to see how colonists battled and overcame enormous odds to gain the freedom that we all enjoy today.

Fun facts:

• Students were given their ranks based on good behavior, listening and helping skills
• Parents and staff members assisted in roping off areas for camp and making lunch
• The Sewing Committee sewed some of the kids' costumes. 
• Principal Ken Levy was dressed in his role of General George Washington

Check out the photos above for scenes from the Revolutionary War Encampment at Crompond School. 

For more information about the Living History Foundation and experiential learning, click here.

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