Experience Centuries of Military History at Jamestown Settlement’s Military Through the Ages

Get ready to step straight into centuries of military history—all in one unforgettable weekend—at Jamestown Settlement’s time‑honored Military Through the Ages, happening Saturday and Sunday, March 21 and 22. For more than forty years, military reenactors from across eras have gathered here to create one of the most unique chronological displays of military history anywhere.

Throughout the weekend, you can wander through military encampments, talk with more than 500 reenactors, and see firsthand how uniforms, weapons, and battlefield tactics evolved over thousands of years. It’s immersive, hands‑on, and unlike any other history event in Virginia.

A Living Timeline of Military History

From hoplites and Vikings to privateers, sailors, and modern soldiers, nearly 40 reenactment units bring global military history to life—from 500 B.C.E. to today. On Sunday at 3 p.m., the narrated military pass‑in‑review showcases armed forces across the centuries, ending with modern‑day soldiers from the Virginia Army National Guard.

As you explore, you’ll move through encampments representing Ancient Greece, the medieval world, the Hundred Years’ War, the War of the Roses, the American Revolution, the War of 1812, the Napoleonic Wars, and the American Civil War. The 20th century comes alive through World War I, World War II, the Vietnam War, and Operation Urgent Fury in Grenada. The Virginia Army National Guard 111th Field Artillery anchors the present day.

Kids can jump into Morse code challenges with the 1st Canadian Parachute Battalion HQ, try a bayonet dummy drill with the 3rd U.S. Regular Infantry Regiment, help make inert musket cartridges with the 42nd Royal Highlanders, or join in period dancing with the Piper. You’ll also find sailors working on the jolly boat with American Forces, Hampton Roads, War of 1812, and a Nieuport 11 aircraft on display with the Old Dominion Air Squadron.

Artillery, Military Music & Historic Sutlers

Across both days, you’ll see demonstrations of military equipment used on land, at sea, and in the air, with appearances by Legio XIIII GMV, the 111th Field Artillery of the Virginia Army National Guard, the British 1st Airborne Division, the 42nd Royal Highland Regiment, No. 3 Coy, Cavaliers and Roundheads, the 39th Tomsk Infantry Regiment, and the 51st Engineer Combat Battalion.

At 12 noon on Saturday and Sunday, artillery‑firing demonstrations compare cold steel, black powder, and modern firepower—from a 17th‑century cannon to a 105mm howitzer.

Live music fills the weekend as Ladies for Liberty and the 29th Infantry Division Band take the stage.

Historic sutlers set up shop throughout the event, offering everything from reproduction jewelry and pewter to leatherwork, blacksmithing, and gunsmithing. You’ll find artisans such as Clay Smith Guns, Georgia Colony Smiths, Fort Vause Outfitters, K. Walters at the Sign of the Gray Horse, Phil the Glassblower, and White Historic Art.

Military History at Jamestown Settlement

Inside Jamestown Settlement’s galleries, you can explore 17th‑century arms, armor, and military equipment year‑round. Permanent exhibits combine artifacts, films, and interactive displays to tell the story of America’s first permanent English colony and the intertwined histories of Powhatan Indian, English, and West Central African cultures.

Outdoors, the museum’s living‑history areas bring early Virginia to life with a re‑created 1610–14 English fort, Paspahegh Town, and replicas of the 1607 ships that carried English colonists to Virginia.

Military Through the Ages is presented with support from James City County and contributions to the Jamestown‑Yorktown Foundation, Inc. Annual Fund. You can also explore other programs and events happening throughout the year.

About Jamestown Settlement

Jamestown Settlement is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. (closed Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day). The café and museum shop are open during museum hours. Admission tickets can be purchased online or in person.

Plan your visit today or call (757) 253‑4838 for more information.