World War I Commemorative Day
This annual museum event is a tribute to the soldiers of all nations that fought in what was then known as the "Great War" from 1914 to 1918.    To a background of period music recorded directly from the original phonograph records, reenactors costumed in original and authentic replica uniforms of the major powers will be available to entertain visitor questions and demonstrate weapons and equipment.  Expect to see the American "Doughboy", French "Poilu", German "Sturmpioneer", British "Tommy" as well as kilted Scots and Czarist Russians.   The museum's WWI collection will be brought out for special exhibit and will be amply complemented by the wonderful, andrare items accumulated by the private collectors who generously support this event.

WWI music is also performed live during the program by "Banjo" Pete Leonard and, weather permitting, comparative firepower demonstrations are conducted outside the museum to illustrate the differences between capabilities of the soldier of  today and those of 80 years ago.   This is a rare opportunity to see first hand and up close the artifacts of the "The War To End All Wars" It is held rain or shine on the second Saturday of April form 10:30 to 3:30.
Visitors questions are heartily encouraged.
Cpl. Bill Baldwin, portraying an infantryman of New York's own 107th Regiment, 27th Division, demonstrates the bolt action of his American M1917 Enfield rifle, the same type of weapon used by the famed Sgt. York in his Medal of Honor winning action
"Pack up your troubles in your old kit bag and smile, smile , smile…"  With no radio, singing was a popular pastime among soldiers of all nations. Here, museum supporters James Michaud (Imperial German), Alan Tulio (British Army) and "Banjo" Pete Leonard (US Army) strike up a tune for the entertainment of visitors.
An exhibit of an American officer's shirt sleeve order, equipped for campaign on the Mexican border chasing Pancho Villa in 1916.  Among many displays for visitors to examine.
Rich Farinelli, dressed as a French infantryman, presides over his display of weapons and accoutrements including the appalling Chauchat machine-gun (deactivated in this case) whose unreliability plagued the American troops unfortunate enough to be issued it.

Reenactor/historian Private 1st Class Pete Leonard wearing his own completely original uniform and equipment to portray a nighttime trench raider from the 107th Regiment, of New York's 27th Division.