Step back into the 18th century with DeLancey’s Brigade Re-enactors, a volunteer living history organization based in Saint John, New Brunswick. Since 1981, the group has been dedicated to bringing New Brunswick’s Loyalist heritage to life through authentic historical re-enactments, educational programs, and immersive living history experiences.
DeLancey’s Brigade portrays Captain Edward Allison’s Company of the 2nd Battalion of Brigadier General DeLancey’s Brigade of the Royal Provincials during the American War of Independence. The organization was founded as preparations began for the bicentennial celebrations of the 1783 Loyalist Landings and the 1785 granting of Saint John’s Royal Charter. Inspired by visiting historical re-enactors and the discovery that Gabriel Ludlow, Saint John’s first mayor, had commanded the original 2nd Battalion, a local re-enactment unit was established.
What began as a ceremonial Fife and Drum Corps quickly grew into one of the highlights of Saint John’s annual Loyalist celebrations. Over the years, the organization expanded to include infantry, civilian camp followers, musicians, and a field artillery unit equipped with an authentic 3-pounder cannon, creating a fully immersive military encampment representative of life in 18th-century British North America.
Today, DeLancey’s Brigade participates in heritage events throughout New Brunswick and is one of the organizers behind Loyalist Day celebrations held annually on May 18 in Saint John. While military history remains at its core, the group’s research and presentations now explore many aspects of daily life in British North America between 1750 and 1790. Their educational demonstrations can range from short presentations to multi-day living history events.
As a member of the British Brigade Reenactment Society, DeLancey’s Brigade continues to preserve and share New Brunswick’s Loyalist history through engaging, authentic experiences for audiences of all ages.
Follow DeLancey’s Brigade Re-enactors on Facebook to learn about upcoming events and appearances. If you would like to invite the group to participate in your event, contact them at steve@delanceys.org
21-111 Sydney Street, Saint John, NB E2L 2L8
