Anna Puckett Bester: The American Revolution Re-enactment Years

Anna and her family settled in Columbia, South Carolina in the mid-1970s. There they found themselves actively involved in the living history group known as the “Second Regiment South Carolina Line Continental Establishment.” The infantry regiment was created for the United States Bicentennial, a 200th Anniversary celebration of the creation of the United States of America as an independent republic. The 2nd South Regiment became the official living history group for the state of South Carolina.

It was within this re-enactment group that Anna’s sewing expertise, historical clothing design, and cooking skills would be put to good use. The 200th Anniversary of the Battle of Yorktown, Virginia was held in October of 1981. Anna’s job was to make sure their regiment was properly clothed for the week-long event. Two sets of clothing were required for each soldier and their family members. During each battlefield re-enactment, Anna would explain the life of a soldier’s wife and family traveling under the protection of General George Washington’s Army from the British troops and Tory raiders.

All of the 18th Century clothing seen in this exhibit, with the exception of General Washington’s coat, was lovingly made by Ms. Anna. Here you will see ladies’ well-worn day dresses, beautiful formal gowns, a 2nd South Regiment soldier’s uniform, and various gentlemen’s attire.