The Free Press, Mankato, MN

Local News

Related Photos

  • Photo courtesy John Makepeace

    romans

September 18, 2009

A three-day battle in 30 minutes

Hermann's famous battle to be re-enacted today

By Brian Ojanpa

NEW ULM — John Makepeace will make war today — and he’s going to die trying.

He’ll be among more than 100 re-enactors reprising a 9 A.D. battle between Roman legions and Germanic barbarians as part of the Hermann Victory Celebration in New Ulm.

“The Romans take a hit on this one,” said New Ulmite Makepeace, who not only helped organize the 30-minute re-enactment but plunked down $2,000 for period Roman soldier garb.

“I bought all the armor — to my wife’s amazement.”

Will he ever use it in such fashion again?

“I have no idea,” he said. “First things first.”

German warrior Hermann (Arminius) led tribal warriors in a stunning conquest of Roman invaders.

The 12-scene reenactment of the three-day battle in Teutoburg Forest will employ Roman legion and barbarian actors from throughout the United States.

The performance will be enhanced with recorded sound effects of clashing swords and spears, and the battle will be simulcast on KNUJ radio.

Fittingly, the battle reenactment will be directly below New Ulm’s iconic Hermann statue. Nearby Center Street will serve as the Rhine River during the series of running battles.

The victory is regarded as pivotal in world history because it curtailed Roman expansion and shaped the foundations for modern Europe.

“We’re flying by the seat of our pants in some ways, but this will be outdoor living-history theater,” Makepeace said.

The Hermann festival continues through Sunday. Go to hermannmonument.com for a full schedule of events.

Text Only | Photo Reprints
Local News