Battle of Okeechobee | Historical Reenactment

On the banks of Lake Okeechobee, Florida, USA, I had the pleasure of observing the Battle of Okeechobee Reenactment; fought by the Seminole Indians, the 1st, 4th and 6th Infantry Units and 132 Volunteers, also known as The Second Seminole War.

The Battle Of Okeechobee, reenactment in full swing

The time was 1837, the reason was forced relocation of the Seminole Indians. Seminole Warriors Billy Bowlegs, Alligator and Abiaca led the deadly resistance against the US commander Colonel Zachary Taylor. Both sides eventually declared victory!

132 Volunteers from Missouri were sent forward on the first line of the sawgrass swamp strike. The Seminoles fierce attack sent the volunteers scattering, but not before the Volunteer’s commander Colonel Richard Gentry was killed.

Volunteers head to war in The Battle of Okeechobee reenactment

Of the enlisted men, 112 were wounded and 26 were killed. Due to the exceptional tactical skill of the Seminole indians, their losses were considerably less at 11 killed and 14 wounded. Due to slowing down the forces, Seminole elderly, women and children were able to escape to their Everglade hideouts.

Enlisted Men, Battle Of Okeechobee - Reenactment — Enlisted Men, Battle Of Okeechobee – Reenactment

The Battle of Okeechobee reenactment was tastefully chronicled as it played out, allowing the audience to learn and understand the history of The Second Seminole War.
Other attractions included Artisan Booths, Horse rides, Alligator, snake and turtle presentations by Native Village and the Presentation of Colours. The song Seminole Wind was also sung at the pre-battle show.