How Is a Historical Reenactor Different from a Living Historian?
A passionate historian who maintains a YouTube Channel, podcast, and retail business selling historical artifacts, Chase Pipes has been heavily involved in preserving and sharing history for more than 10 years. In addition to his professional pursuits, Chase Pipes enjoys volunteering as a historical reenactor and living historian guide.
Many people use the terms historical reenactor and living historian interchangeably. However, Washington Crossing Historic Park (along with several others) believe that the two terms, although related, are quite different.
Washington Crossing Historic Park categorizes historical reenactment as a type of living history, along with historical interpretation. Historical reenactors are knowledgeable about specific events and will recreate those events for the public to watch. These may include historical battles that are recreated on or near the actual sites where they occurred. In essence, reenactors are actors who are performing a particular historical occurrence.
Meanwhile, historical interpreters, as noted by the Washington Crossing Historic Park, educate the public about what life was like in a particular time. These individuals dress in clothing that is entirely period-accurate, and are very knowledgeable about the period they are showing. Historical interpreters often do not play a specific character, but instead bring history to life by either explaining or acting according to what general life would be like within a specific time period.
