The Vikings (reenactment group)
The Vikings are a society of reenactors, dedicated to the study and re-enactment of the culture of the Viking Age (790 – 1066) and the display of authentic dark ages living and combat.
Origins
Founded in 1971, The Vikings are the oldest and largest Viking Age re-enactment society in the UK, and probably the world, with over 700 members throughout Britain, Europe and North America. While the Society concentrates mainly on the 10th Century, events are often set in the wider period from 790 to 1066, with the appropriate modifications to dress and equipment used.
Despite the name, the groups portray Saxon, Norman, Celtic, and Viking cultures.
Objectives
The society aims to provide an accurate and educational portrayal of the Viking period, with an equal emphasis on the daily life of the period, and on the more warlike aspects of life in what was a formative period in European history. Events are renowned for the high standard of presentation, historical accuracy and attention to detail, and for the scale and impact of our combat displays, as well as for our extensive static displays which present a cross-section of life in the tenth century.
Educational Visits
The Society includes a number of primary and secondary level teachers amongst its membership and, in may areas offers school visits by experienced and knowledgeable personnel in full period dress. These visits include a variety of activities based around the UK National Curriculum framework of Key Stage Two's “Invaders and Settlers” topic.
The Society also provides resources for schools, including a teacher's resource book for KS2. In some cases, clothing and equipment can be loaned to schools for short periods to assist in classroom work.
Membership
Full membership of The Vikings is open to anyone over the age of 18. In the UK, children under 18 years of age may become junior members, but due to our safety regulations are not allowed to participate in combat displays
Battle Of Hastings
They are the primary organisers for the Battle of Hastings re-enactment event planned for October 2006 Battle_of_Hastings_reenactment