the Romans Returned...

Back at Hardwick Country Park for the now annual Romans Return event.  It being Summer, Saturday it rained, but Sunday was Glorious.  Still the rain didn't worry the Deja Crew, we were under cover.

Our activities tent, with weaving, willow work and  Life in the Roman Army.

"How did they move around with all this weight?" - quote from one new recruit.

All the things you can try on, including Roman Underpants!

a quite moment in between the raindrops on Saturday,
however Sunday we didn't even have time for a photograph!

A grand event, hopefully we'll be back again next year, see you then.

6/7 August - The Romans Return to Hardwick Country Park

For the third year running The Deja Crew were invited to 'The Romans Return' Event at Hardwick Country Park, despite the torrential rain on the Saturday it was again a very popular event.

For some reason most recruits prefer the Offcier's Crest to that of the lower ranks!

The event gave me a chance to try out some of the new bits of kits I've been making -

Subarmalis or arming jacket

Wooden Practice Gladius

As far as I can tell, there is very little evidence about what Romans wore under their armour.  The word 'subarmalis' is mentioned in a few places, but none have ever been found (they are made of things that decay quickly).  There are some images on Trajan's Column and wall paintings, so my attempt is really a bit of guesswork.
There are references to recruits training with weighted wooden swords to build their strength, this one is twice the wieght of an ordinary gladius.

And finally...
                     ...Roman Underpants!

Subligaculum or 'little binding beneath!
A sort of loin cloth, there are images from Pompeii showing what Romans wore beneath their togas.