Flag lowering ceremony at the end of a wonderful day of 4th July celebrations in bright summer sunshine. Sulgrave Manor was bought by the British American Peace Committee in 1914 to be a symbol of peace between the two countries. The Treaty of Ghent was signed in 1814, which brought to an end the war of 1812. The Manor is therefore one of the most appropriate venues outside the States at which to celebrate the adoption of the Declaration of Independence in 1776. See following page for pictures of the many activities
An appropriate car for Independence Day…..
Many early visitors in the courtyard
British redcoat army at camp
An opportunity to get little hands on a big musket
Demonstration of well used carpentry tools
In the Buttery, Georgina prepares lunch for the soldiers…..
……a delicious curry for the officers and potage for the other ranks!
Scout activities on the front lawn…..
….with Boy Scouts of America and Scouts and Cubs from local troops
Visiting children pose with the bust of George Washington
A future groupie? Music from Acoustic Journey
Arrival of the Harley Davidsons…..
…the HOG Chapters from Nene Valley
The redcoats assemble….
….in two formations…..
…and visitors await the action in the Manor Orchard
Soon the air is filled with smoke from live musket fire
At the end of the skirmish in the orchard, the redcoats make a final charge….
….and then salute the King
Arrival of the Honour Guard from USAG 501 Com Wing at Croughton for the flag lowering ceremony
The immaculately performed ceremony was watched in respectful silence by the visitors
The Manor Team!