What we do
Historical re-enactment is an exciting hobby that brings history to life. The 2ème Legere aim to recreate the life of Napoleonic soldiers and their families through the use of recreated uniforms and equipment. This is a growing hobby with many regiments being portrayed from France, Britain and across Europe. Frequently we work together to put on larger and more spectacular displays to provide an experience of Napoleonic life to public who come to watch. We also aim to pass on our knowledge and enthusiasm for this fascinating period to those who come to see us.
The British charge shatters the French line.
Drill
Drill was a vital part of all Napoleonic armies. The tactics of the period required all soldiers to be thoroughly trained in the formations and use of their weapons. From their first days of training French soldiers were taught the ecole du soldat the "school of the soldier". We use the same drill manual dated from 1791 to instruct our recruits that French soldiers used 200 years ago.
Drill was a vital part of all Napoleonic armies. The tactics of the period required all soldiers to be thoroughly trained in the formations and use of their weapons. From their first days of training French soldiers were taught the ecole du soldat the "school of the soldier". We use the same drill manual dated from 1791 to instruct our recruits that French soldiers used 200 years ago.
A column on the march achieved with much dedication to drilling.
Battle Re-enactment
A central feature of the hobby is the recreation of Napoleonic battles. These can vary in size from a dozen aside to massive international events with thousands of participants from all over the world. We use reproduction muskets and black powder to recreate the sights, sounds and smells of a Napoleonic battlefield. Nothing beats the thrill of marching to the pas de charge or engaging in a skirmish duel with the British Greenjackets and redcoats.
A central feature of the hobby is the recreation of Napoleonic battles. These can vary in size from a dozen aside to massive international events with thousands of participants from all over the world. We use reproduction muskets and black powder to recreate the sights, sounds and smells of a Napoleonic battlefield. Nothing beats the thrill of marching to the pas de charge or engaging in a skirmish duel with the British Greenjackets and redcoats.
The 2eme Legere lead the ladder assault at Whittington Castle.
Living History
Away from the din of battle with have our encampment. You will find the 2ème Legere camping in period tents and recreate Napoleonic dishes over the camp fire. This provides an experience that nothing compare to by enabling us to experiment with period recipes and live the life of Napoleonic soldiers. Nothing gets you more in the mood than tucking into a dish of Chicken Marengo with a bottle of wine, whilst sat around the camp fire singing a rousing chorus of Le Chant L'Oignon (The Onion Song).
Away from the din of battle with have our encampment. You will find the 2ème Legere camping in period tents and recreate Napoleonic dishes over the camp fire. This provides an experience that nothing compare to by enabling us to experiment with period recipes and live the life of Napoleonic soldiers. Nothing gets you more in the mood than tucking into a dish of Chicken Marengo with a bottle of wine, whilst sat around the camp fire singing a rousing chorus of Le Chant L'Oignon (The Onion Song).
The 2eme Legere preparing their onion soup, the authentic pre-battle dinner of the French army.
Festivities
The 2ème Legere also engage in a wide variety of social and cultural activities, both at shows and between them. We are passionate about our hobby and are always eager to see historical sites or go to a regency ball.
The 2ème Legere also engage in a wide variety of social and cultural activities, both at shows and between them. We are passionate about our hobby and are always eager to see historical sites or go to a regency ball.
Bastille Day! The 2eme Legere recreate a 14th July celebration in a French army camp.
