Learn about soldiers’ fare prepared in an earthen kitchen.

Discover the life of a Revolutionary War soldier

The life of a Revolutionary War soldier is vividly portrayed in a re-created Continental Army encampment. Historical interpreters describe and depict daily routines of American soldiers, with demonstrations of military drills, musket and seasonal artillery firing, 18th-century surgical and medical practices, and the role of the quartermaster in managing troop supplies.

Enlist in the Continental Army, and explore the soldiers’ tents and camp kitchen. Throughout the day, historical interpreters demonstrate the steps to fire and load a flintlock musket (weather permitting).

Encampment features

Representing two companies of American soldiers (one-quarter of a regiment), the encampment features:

• Rows of soldiers’ tents and two captains’ quarters
• An office for an adjutant or secretary
• An earthen kitchen modeled after specifications in Baron von Steuben’s 1779 “Regulations for the Order and Discipline of the Troops of the United States”
• Several regimental features, including quarters for a colonel, surgeon and quartermaster
• Makeshift dwellings to represent shelter for female relatives of soldiers who followed the army and earned wages for performing domestic chores

Ticket options

Learn about the Siege of Yorktown and explore the life of a Revolutionary War soldier with our ticket and package specials.

There’s more to see and learn at the American Revolution Museum at Yorktown and Jamestown Settlement