Historical re-enactors and re-creationists don't have the highest reputation either with the general public or among scholars. since I have spent more than my fair share of time running around in armor, I have a different opinion. Part of it goes back to the attitude that "historians don't own history" ( or at least not all of it :-)) but also because I know a number of people who have come out of the reenactment and become masters of some historical-based skill. Their accomplishments deserve the highest praise.
One such person is Darrell Markewitz, whom I've known for almost 40 years now. In that time has grown from a young eccentric to a mature eccentric who knows things other people don't know and can do things that other people can't do. He loves researching historical techniques and has done valuable work in connection with Viking culture in North America, but he is also a contemporary person who makes iron – based art for modern clients. Here, too, he might be seen as a reenactor – reenacting some of the graphic innovations of the 1970s. Whatever you call it, I say it is good, and better than good. The picture above is an example of a commission piece for a patron/client. Go here to have a closer look and, if you've got the cash and share Darrell's belief in the beauty of iron, give him a call.
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