Those looking for a blast from the ancient past can help recreate a Macedonian infantry unit in Brookings this weekend.
A group of SDSU students spent the last three weeks recreating ancient Greek materials, as well as practicing with replica ancient spears ranging 13-20 feet long, called sarissas, in an experimental history class. The project culminates in testing the spears with volunteers while marching as an infantry, or phalanx.
The event is May 27 at Larson Park in Brookings from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. with a break for lunch. The event is partially sponsored by the South Dakota Humanities Council.
Graham Wrightson is an assistant history professor at SDSU and expert in Greek warfare. He said he hopes the event will inspire an interest in ancient history.
Also helping with the class is Lucian Staiano-Daniels, an expert in medieval pikes. He is currently a visiting assistant professor in Peace and Conflict Studies at Colgate University in New York.
Anyone can take part in the exercise. To register, email graham.wrightson@sdstate.edu or contact the SDSU School of American and Global Studies.
