In 1936, the Union-Endicott Colonial Fife & Drum Corps was formed under the direction of Acton Ostling, the compiler of Music of ’76. They quickly became a very popular performing group and a unique symbol of the Union-Endicott High School for years until the end of the 1951-52 school year when U-E disbanded the group.

In 1954 the former Colonials met and decided to form a new Corps to continue the tradition of fife and drum music in the area. The name of the Corps became The Continental Ancient Fife & Drum Corps of Endicott, NY. In a few years they were able to earn enough money to buy their distinctive style uniforms, drums, and other equipment.

The Corps purpose is to preserve and perform the martial music dating from the Colonial period of our great country including through the Civil War period. During that time the fifes and drums were instrumental in moving our troops to battle and directing them during the battles when vocal commands could barely be heard above the roar of the cannons and musket fire.

 

 

 

 

 

The Continentals are one of the few Corps in Central New York State and are in great demand for parades and performances, locally as well as in neighboring states and Canada. We enjoy attending musters in the New England area where there may be up to fifty Corps marching and playing together.

We need new members! We encourage people of all ages, from teenagers through seniors to consider joining us. The Triple Cities and surrounding areas have many musicians that have been active with the high schools bands over the years, and we can also teach beginners to play the fife or drum, or to march in the color guard.  This is a unique and fun way to preserve American history and its musical traditions.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Rehearsals are held Wednesdays from 7:00 to 8:00 pm at American Legion Post 1700, 305 Maple St. Endicott, NY. For further information you may contact us by e-mail , by phone at (607) 748-9633, or by mail to:
The Continental Ancient Fife & Drum Corps, Box 406, Endicott, NY 13760

Memorial Day Service at the Vestal, NY Gazebo
May 27, 2007 (click on image for larger view)

(click on image for larger view)