About Us

Founded in 2017 by brothers Todd and Patrick Cornell, the Company of the Black Spear was established from a shared passion for teaching history and bringing the past to life through authentic living history. Our focus is the recreation of an English military retinue of the early 15th century, striving to portray the period as accurately as our research, abilities, and resources allow.

Our company is made up of dedicated, like-minded individuals committed to portraying an authentic representation of life in 15th-century England. Through the study of period sources, material culture, and historical practices, we continually refine our impressions to present a faithful interpretation of the people, military, and daily life of the period.

Although our members are spread across the country—from Florida to New Hampshire and from Pennsylvania to Kansas—we primarily serve the eastern United States. Throughout the year, we attend living history events, educational demonstrations, and historical reenactments across the East Coast, traveling as far west as Ohio to share our passion for history with audiences of all ages.

At every event, we strive to bring the early 15th century to life through authentic displays, hands-on demonstrations, and meaningful interaction with the public. By showcasing the equipment, skills, crafts, and daily life of an English military retinue on campaign, we offer visitors a unique opportunity to experience history beyond the pages of a book. Above all, our goal is to inspire curiosity, encourage a deeper understanding of medieval England, and preserve this remarkable period of history through research, authenticity, and education.