Members of Lace Wars: Re-enacting the Mid 18th Century

What are we?
Rose & Thistle are a group of experienced historical re-enactors who portray members of British society, both civilian and military, during the middle of the eighteenth century. From Highland Clan Chiefs to stylish English Gentlemen, and from Peasants to Craftsmen Rose & Thistle aim to educate and entertain the public. Our members have worked for the BBC as well as many independent television companies. Rose & Thistle is also happy to provide historical advice as many of our members cover several different fields of expertise.

What does Rose and Thistle do?
The simple answer would be re-enactment, however what we aim to do is educate as well as entertain. We can set up a living history camp with tentage and displays of both the skills and life during the middle of the eighteenth century. Our members include experts in the weapons of the periods who can give exciting displays of both swordsmanship and musketry. Plus within the living history display you will find the tradesmen of the period making rope, working with leather, and of course the essentials of providing a meal or making and mending clothing.

Who can join Rose and Thistle?
Just about any one. If you have an interest in the eighteenth century then we are the group for you. We welcome men, women and families and can find a role for every one. If you have a modern day skill why not do some research - we can help with that, and carry it out as it was done in the mid 1700's. If you prefer you can become a Jacobite soldier or even a minister of religion! For women there are a huge variety of roles to take on, Rose & Thistle also allows cross dressing which means that if you want to be a soldier you can.

Where do I get my costume and what should I wear?
Rose & Thistle can put you in touch with several experts in eighteenth century costume, or if you prefer to make your own we can advise you as to where to get patterns and also what material to use. Of course we have a kit list but this is a guide, however before buying or making any thing we strongly recommend you speak to one of our officers so that they can advise you to as to what is acceptable and what isn't.

How much will it cost me to join Rose and Thistle?
Membership is £5 per year for adults and free to those under 16. We estimate that to fully kit your self out it will cost you about £250, this can be reduced if you make some of the costume your self, we also have a small supply of kit that we can lend out to new members.

Where do Rose and Thistle hold their events?
Rose & Thistle is a member of the Lace Wars Re-enactment Society. This is an umbrella group for mid eighteenth century re-enactors. Most of our events will be with that group although we will be holding our own events. Membership of Lace Wars is essential as you cannot attend events unless you are a member, this is for insurance purposes. Events are held all over Great Britain, from the north of Scotland down to the south coast of England. You can attend as many or as few events as you like there is no pressure to come along, but we are sure that once you have been a couple of times you will be bitten by the bug.

What to do next.
If you think that you would like to discuss becoming a member of Rose & Thistle please e-mail us and we will reply giving you the phone number of one of our officers. We have found through experience that it easier for us to explain about over the phone or at an event than it is by mail. You can be assured of a friendly and enthusiastic response and if you decide to join you will be made to feel very welcome. If you from any section of the media please contact us in the same way and we will reply to your enquiry immediately. .