Medieval reenactment punctuates Washtucna’s Fourth of July

Jennifer Larsen | Last updated Jul 21, 2011 12:0pm0

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TAKE THAT. Representing the Duchy of Brunico in the Adrian Empire, Jason Smith (left) and Bethany Hiemstra use blunted swords during a battle demonstration at the Fourth of July celebration in Washtucna. Although blunted weapons are used, the battle intensity is real and so are the bruises that appear from the blunted strikes.

The traditional community gathering at Bassett Park for the Fourth of July featured homemade treats in the potluck, a medieval/early renaissance re-creation, horseshoe tournament and more.

Several members of the Duchy of Brunico chose to remain in Washtucna after a local ‘war’ the weekend prior and present a medieval/early renaissance re-creation.

According to the organization’s website, “The Adrian Empire is dedicated to the study and re-creation of Western European culture between the Battle of Hastings (the year 1066) and the end of the reign of Queen Elizabeth I of England (the year 1603)....