Sabers Clash At A Gallop in Wethersfield

Saber skills mesh with horsemanship - in Wethersfield
Members of the Sheldon’s Horse, Second Continental Light Dragoons demonstrated the fine art of horsemanship in Wethersfield with saber fights, horseback patrols, and firing period weapons.

“The 2nd Continental Light Dragoons, also known as Sheldon’s Horse, was commissioned by the Continental Congress on December 12, 1776 and was first mustered at Wethersfield, Connecticut, in March 1777 for service with the Continental Army. The regiment saw action at the Battle of Brandywine, Battle of Saratoga, Battle of Germantown, and the Battle of Yorktown. . . .The 2nd Light Dragoons are prominent in Colonel John Trumbull’s paintings of the American Revolution.” – from Wikipedia

Part of “Keeney History Day for Families” at Keeney Memorial Center, the gathered crowd watched as unit members displayed battle skills on horseback.

The rider has to be totally in tune with his horse to fight with a saber at a gallop.
The rider has to be totally in tune with his horse to fight with a saber at a gallop.

Ralph Whitney with the authorized replica of the battle flag of the Continental Army's 2nd Light Dragoons. The original sold for $11 million at auction.
Ralph Whitney with the authorized replica of the battle flag of the Continental Army's 2nd Light Dragoons. The original sold for $11 million at auction.

Sheldon’s Horse is a reestablished military ceremonial unit and educational organization. The unit participates in many ceremonial, educational, civic and historical activities, mainly in the Northeast United States. Sheldon’s Horse supports and participates in historical reenactments of American Revolutionary War throughout the region. Sheldon’s Horse is granted status as a reactivated “in service” military unit and serves on orders as a representative of the State of Connecticut. – from the unit’s site, www.dragoons.info.