The First Mad River Light Artillery is a Charter Club of the National Muzzle Loading Rifle Association (NMLRA), and membership in that organization is encouraged of FMRLA members. The First Mad River Light Artillery welcomes both experienced and novice reenactors and living historians.
The First Mad River Light Artillery was founded in 2003 to participate in the 225th commemoration of the Battle of Peckuwe fought on August 8, 1780, between George Rogers Clark, with 1000 Kentucky militia and Virginia Regulars, and the Shawnee leader Catahecassa, “Black Hoof”, and his approximately 400 Native troops. The battle is the largest battle of the American Revolution fought west of the Allegheny Mountains, and the battlefield is located 5 miles west of the present city of Springfield, Ohio, at the current site of the George Rogers Clark Historic Park.
Get Involved
Interested in becoming part of the First Mad River Light Artillery?
To serve on the gun crew, members must:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Maintain good standing with the George Rogers Clark Heritage Association
- Complete the National Muzzle Loading Rifle Association (NMLRA) Cannon Certification Course, often hosted at George Rogers Clark Park by certified instructors from the FMRLA
Don’t want to fire a cannon? No problem—there are plenty of other roles to play in helping preserve and share this powerful history.
The Replica Cannon: An Engineering Marvel
Our replica British Light 6-Pounder was commissioned in 2003 and delivered in 2005. Built to exacting historical standards, this piece is more than a showpiece—it’s a fully functional field weapon used in live demonstrations.
Specifications:
- Barrel: Cast bronze by U.S. Bronze Foundry & Machine, stamped “W. Bowen Fecit 1755”
- Weight: Cannon barrel weighs 555 lbs; full system weighs approx. 2,200 lbs
- Carriage & Limber: Handcrafted from white oak with authentic ironwork
Local Ohio craftsmanship helped bring the piece to life, with custom ironwork from Hoffman’s Forge and wheels by Stutzman’s Buggy Shaft & Wheel Works in Baltic, Ohio.
Uniform & Equipment Guidelines
We aim for historical accuracy with a practical mindset. Members are encouraged to build a basic militia impression first, before branching into more specific portrayals.
- Revolutionary War Uniform (Artillery)
- Blue Continental-style coat with scarlet facings and brass buttons
- White breeches and waistcoat
- Cocked or round hat (yellow laced for artillery)
- Period-appropriate shoes, haversack, and canteen
- Infantry Attached to Artillery
- Blue coat with red or white facings
- Pewter buttons, white small clothes
- Black cocked hat, infantry cap, or helmet
We also portray War of 1812 artillery uniforms by request. For any new impressions, members should consult with the unit before purchasing gear.
Learn More or Join Us
Become a Member of the First Mad River Light Artillery
Whether you’re drawn by the boom of the cannon, the history of the frontier, or the camaraderie of the campfire, the First Mad River Light Artillery (FMRLA) offers a unique chance to experience early American life in an unforgettable way.
We welcome anyone with an interest in history, whether you’re a veteran reenactor or just starting to explore what living history is all about. Our unit portrays multiple time periods, with a primary focus on the American Revolution and War of 1812, and we participate in both educational and public events throughout the region.
We’re proud to be a Charter Club of the National Muzzle Loading Rifle Association (NMLRA) and encourage our members to join the NMLRA to support their national safety and training programs. While we’re not affiliated with national reenactment alliances like the Brigade of the American Revolution or Northwest Territorial Alliance, we hold ourselves to high historical and safety standards.
If you’re interested in early American history, teamwork, and being part of something truly unique, we’d love to have you with us.
We currently accept members in the following roles:
- Artillery Crew (18+)
Must complete NMLRA artillery safety certification (training offered locally after joining). - Infantry (16+)
With parent or guardian approval and supervision. - Musicians & Youth Participants
Too young to serve under arms? No problem! We welcome youth as fifers, drummers, and support crew. - Camp Followers & Distaff Roles
All ages and backgrounds welcome. These non-combat roles are vital to our historical interpretation and to building community within the unit.
While we don’t have loaner uniforms or weapons, our members are happy to guide you in acquiring the right clothing and equipment for your role. We’ll help connect you with trusted vendors and even offer advice on how to build your gear piece-by-piece as your involvement grows.
Not sure you’re ready to jump in? Spend a weekend with us! You’re welcome to observe or participate in a limited way to get a feel for how the unit operates. Just reach out, and we’ll help set something up.
Being part of FMRLA is more than just dressing in period attire. You’ll get hands-on with:
- Historical research
- Firearm and artillery safety
- Camp life and field maneuvers
- Public speaking and demonstrations
- Collaboration with passionate, like-minded individuals
Events vary in size and tone—from battlefield reenactments and living history days to school programs, community festivals, and even sporting events, where we’ve been known to fire the cannon for a touchdown or two!
The FMRLA is available to participate in parades, educational programs, and special events throughout the region. The firing of our replica British Light 6-Pounder cannon is always a showstopper and can be arranged for appropriate venues.
Please note: There is a fee for firing the cannon to help cover transport, safety requirements, and maintenance. Reach out to discuss scheduling and pricing—we’re happy to work with you.
President: Phil Campbell
Vice President: Rusty Cottrel
Treasurer: Cindy Jackson
