Reenacting across Europe since 1984
History
The history of Free Company is a long one, and you’ll often hear us referred to with different names and epithets according to who, what, where, and when you may be talking about. At our core, however, we are centred around Sapper - who first attended the Battle of Hastings in 1984 (pictured above) and hasn’t given up since. Over the last 40-odd years he has been joined by an ever evolving group who followed his orders to events and celebrations across both the UK and wider Europe. Crucially, this group hasn’t just been about reenactment; friendships and relationships have lasted beyond the battlefield into a way of life that is important to many today, even if reenactment events are no longer possible for them. In 2024 Sapper stood down his leadership (although he remains at the heart of the the group), with a new committee elected and constitution developed through 2025. Free Company is the name under which this group continues to re-enact and participate in shows.
Today
Today, Free Company are a motley group of about 50 reenactors, based across England and Wales. Some have been with the group reenacting since the 1980s, while others have joined more recently in the 21st Century - some have even been born into the group, with 3rd-generation members frequently seen at events! Together, we have experience of demonstrating and performing at shows focused on Iron Age Celts and Roman Era Britain, the 11th Century Norman Conquest, 13th Century Crusaders and Barons Wars, 15th Century Wars of the Roses, 16th Century German Landsknecht Bands, and Napoleonic-era Infantrymen and Engineers (and smugglers...)
Outside of reenacting, our members include educators, performers, conservationists, archaeologists, heritage workers, and events managers, with many of our members having backgrounds in the military, emergency services, and public-speaking. This means we have a unique combination of individuals with both the knowledge of the eras we depict, as well as the skills to communicate this to wider audiences. Our members are able to demonstrate crafts such as weaving and metalworking, cooking and aspects of daily life, as well as the ever popular military demonstrations and armoury. Crucially, we also have a professional understanding of performance and risk management, and are able to work with you to ensure an immersive experience without compromising on visitor safety.
Tewkesbury 2025 - Daz's Photography
Battle of Evesham 2025 - Mark Sutherland
Living History - Daz's Photography
Templecombe 2025 - Daz's Photography
Puppet Show - John Finch