how to join a civil war reenactment group how to join a civil war reenactment group

Choose a Persona Their website is: www.CivilWarNews.com, Camp Chase Gazette is a how-to magazine for authentic reenactors. They should also have a list of recommended vendors that sell uniforms and equipment that meet their units standards. Mountains might be climbed. But if you've got the mettle and undying enthusiasm for history, we'll walk you through the basics of how to get involved. For instance, Revolutionary War-era equipment is generally more expensive than Civil War weapons. The troops do their best to mimic the movements of the actual battle, but as in real war, things often don't go according to plan . 2) Consider What You Want Out of Reenacting: Spend some time thinking about what aspects of reenacting interest you. If you asked to galvanize (switch sides) for a battle or event, dont complain. Living History Archive. Civil War Reenactment Groups The American Civil War, fought between 1861 and 1865, continues to live on in the form of living history reenactments. Some units have fifers and drummers. There are Federal Zouave units who wear bright red pants, red trimmed jackets, and turbans. Most reenacting units have both a website and a Facebook page, making it easier for people to find local units. One can read the history of how Confederate Major General Ambrose Powell Hills Light Division marched 22 miles from Harpers Ferry, Virginia to Sharpsburg, Maryland. Florida. A reenactor is a special breed of person. That does not mean that single, unit-unaffiliated Black reenactors in blue will not be allowed in ranks at reenactments such as Gettysburg, but it is not historically accurate. Unit Dues - Unit dues are typically the cheapest of all expenses. Reenactors wanting to get as close as possible to how the soldiers lived will use this resource. Or, Dad can stay in the military camp while Mom and the kids stay in a civilian camp. (May 8, 2009) http://www.salary.com/personal/layoutscripts/psnl_articles.asp?tab=psn&cat=cat011&ser=ser032, Miller, John. Prospective reenactors should research units to judge how accepting they are of family participation. Are you looking for something you can do with your family? The atmosphere is relaxed, allowing reenactors to recruit new members. That is my indication and EXPRESSED consent to be treated like a slave by all participating confederate soldiers. Mainstream is exactly what it sounds like, reenactors ranging in age from teenagers to well-beyond middle age who like the hobby, but who also do not fit the Civil War image of soldiers being thin and between the ages of 18-25. Both sides tolerate them. Uniforms are all wool for Federal portrayals, and a wool and cotton blend for Confederates. Historical reenacting gives you that chance. Sutlers Merchants who followed troops during the Civil War. Aside from physical distance, a reenactor needs to take into consideration a few factors. This is especially important when it comes to clothing and weaponry, as we'll see on the next page. Between a quarter and a third of the Union army was made up of European immigrants so real or imitation Irish and eastern European accents are welcome. Whether you've chosen to be a fur trapper, a soldier or a medieval princess, this clothing and accessories you select for your kit should match your persona. Just as in the 1860s, some reenacting gear can be shoddy (a Civil War era word), so taking knowledgeable advice from other veteran reenactors in ones unit makes sure newcomers do not buy the wrong gear. Which branch reenactors join is up to their interest in each branchand their financial resources. Are you interested in conducting research into tiny details of soldiers lives? Reenacting units organized around a specific regiment with a general type of uniform will not allow a Berdan sharpshooter or a Louisiana Tiger in the ranks. Reenactment groups and societies can be found all over the world, although they are especially active in the U.S., UK, Germany, Sweden, Canada, and Australia. Short of actually traveling back in time, however, there is no better way to learn about history than by living it first-hand as a reenactor. Arkansas Infantry Reenactors. Notify me of follow-up comments by email. They are encouraged to buy their opposite impression as soon as they can afford the cost. To a CIVIL WAR reenactment. American Civil War Reenactment Groups Historical reenactment groups and living history groups offer an insight into how men and women lived in past times. Don't be overwhelmed! This website uses cookies to improve your experience. Instead they staged brigade-sized snowball fights. Being a reenactor can not only put you in touch with your inner soldier, drummer, or fifer, but can also deepen your understanding of our country's past. and then went into battle to save Lees army, but until one has marched that same route, it is all theory. They are wondering if sleeping on the ground is as much fun as it was when they were young. Get a feel for the atmosphere and conditions of a living history event before you rush to buy vintage style military uniforms & equipment. Do your research before making any purchases to ensure that you get the most authentic bang for your buck. It was I who asked historian Shelby Foote some 20 years ago: Is there anything about The War you dont know? I got the quick answer: I still dont know how they did it.. Many units have loaner gear or special requirements. The state of Pennsylvania hosted thousands of former Union and Confederate soldiers during the weeklong event. Reenactment also takes time, but this can be as little as a 2-3 hour event once or twice a year, to a half-dozen three-day weekend encampments. 2nd Rhode Island Regiment. Take your hits (deaths) If you wish to fight in a different unit that a family member fought in during the civil war. The physically disabled cannot take the field as soldiers, but the impression of a wounded soldier in a period wheel chair being pushed by a civilian in period clothes is welcome. Living like a person in 1863, even if only for a few hours or a few days, would surely sharpen your skills as a historian, actor, and citizen. Men and boys threw on gray and blue pants and work shirts, grabbed whatever arms they could find, and marched out onto whatever fields were handy to recreate battles. https://28thmass.orgLately I've noticed quite a few of you showing more interest in Civil War reenacting specifically. Reenactors need a shirt, coat, pants, wool socks, and a hat. Across the United States, Civil War battles rank among the most popular events to reenact -- they're often held on the original battlefields for true authenticity. If you're thinking about volunteering in a historical reenactment, experienced reenactors will tell you that you shouldn't delve into this hobby without knowing what you're getting into. This list is by no means complete. Battle reenactments are scripted recreations of actual Civil War engagements, which spectators pay to come and watch. Civil War Reenactment is one of the fastest growing hobbies in the United States, and with good reason. Civil War Reenacting makes an effort to list the websites of reenacting units, but, as might be expected, many units are not listed here. We are a Union regiment of the Southern Skirmish Association which aims to bring the history of the American Civil War to life with battles, drill displays, and a taste of 19th century camp life. Farby is a Civil War Reenactment term for anything not typical of the period. We have committed ourselves to the education of the company membership and general public as to the lifestyle, military service and general values of the Black Civil War soldier through an authentic presentation of living history activities including battle reenactments, interpretive programs, training seminars, and similar programs. Also: Post Your Event Photos, Reviews, & Wrap-Ups. While military reenacting is popular in many countries and covering many wars, Civil War Reenacting has been a growing hobby since it began in the 1960s spurred on by the Centennial. Are you really excited about being a part of large battle reenactments? Confederate reenactors armed with single shot muskets have no choice but to fall or withdraw in the face of men using rifles that could carry upwards of 13 rounds that could be fired in a matter of seconds. Leather cartridge box, belt, bayonet scabbard and cap box come in a variety of types and colors such as russet brown, but most men choose black so the same accoutrements can be used for both Confederate and Union impressions. Horses, though trained to expect loud noises from cannons, rifles, pistols and clanging sabers, sometimes throw their riders to the ground. Units portraying the Vietnam War aren't nearly as prolific as World War 2 or Civil War impressions. But, for whatever reason, something about recreating the life of a Civil War soldier resonates with you and youre interested in joining the hobby. Learn more about the mythic conflict between the Argives and the Trojans. For official duties, these youngstersoften between 10 and 14were called on to fill supporting roles such as drummers, buglers, messengers, and field assistants. Colonial-era muskets run a few hundred dollars, and with the rest of the necessary kit, you're looking at more than $1,000 [source: 2nd Rhode Island Regiment]. We'll assume you're ok with this, but you can opt-out if you wish. Reenacting. First-person - When a reenactor speaks to fellow reenactors and the public as a person during the 1860s. Work with your unit point of contact to ensure that the items you select even from these vendors are appropriate, since not every jacket a particular vendor offers will fit your units desired impression. Reenactors refer to their clothing and equipment as theirkit. While it is rare, people have died from the exertion. The soldier in the rear rank must always keep his three-banded muskets middle band at the ear of the file partner in the front rank. The stitch counters can belong in either the mainstream or the campaigner camp. These would be reproduction arms originally manufactured by Springfield and copied by the Confederates, or Enfield, which was an English import used by both sides. Perhaps you attended a reenactment as a spectator and found yourself wishing you were in the midst of the smoke and confusion rather than watching it from afar. In FULL SLAVE garb. Cavalry reenacting is the most expensive branch to portray as the mounted soldiers have to buy period saddles, bridles, carbines, shotguns, pistols and sabers in addition to owning and transporting the horses to the events. Germany . clear this with both units and dont just show up expecting to be ok. Reenacting is at a cross-roads. These reenactors can make a modest living by working in museums or historic sites such as Plymouth, Mass., or Williamsburg, Va. Don't buy a uniform or other equipment until you've joined a unit, which might have its own particular rules for attire. Modern day work boots are not acceptable. Authenticity, while ignored in the 1960s, is now universally required by reenacting units. Copyright 2023 All Rights Reserved by Milsurpia. Civilian A person, male or female, who reenacts any non-military impression during Reenactments. For instance, the 26th Regiment of North Carolina Troops also portrays the 24th Michigan of The Iron Brigade when it reenacts as Federals. Reenactors often do more interacting with the visiting public such as performing drill and firing demonstrations, and giving flag and equipment talks. 4 June 2009. A reenactor could choose that impression by joining a reenacting unit following those uniform guidelines. These can range anywhere from $5 a month to $25 a month. Reenacting gear includes the uniform, accoutrements, a musket, shoes, hat and more, all purchased from sutlers, merchants specializing in reproduction products for reenactors. What period of history most grabs your interest? Still, the best plan for new reenactors is to join a unit and ask for help from the old hands in selecting uniforms and equipment. Each reenactment is a unique experience that allows participants to see through the eyes of a historical person and undergo all the hardships that go along with the times -- short of actually being killed in battle or catching typhoid. When events are not limited by the numbers of participants per side, some events have seen Confederates outnumber Federals by five to oneat battles which the Federals won. Reenactments are only fun if there are enough enemies on the other side. Required fields are marked *. Artillery reenactors are expected to know how to work all of the positions of the cannon, which can cost upwards of $15,000 and likely belongs to one person. The gear does not stop at just a firearm either. Most reenacting units are equipped to act as either Federal or Confederate troops in order to be able to balance numbers at reenacting events. If its not, consider trying another group. Otherwise, the 60 grains of powder and a piece of paper wadding for each charge is authentic. Reenacting events come in varying categories. Some states require even single shot, reproduction muskets to be registered with the government. If you crave intrigue and a dash of melodrama, historical fiction can make the past come alive. An Authentic Civil War Living History Association, Top Five Tips for Getting Started in Civil War Reenacting. Take the time to fully research your character and period, considering where yourpersonalives, his age, hisoccupation, and his social status, before purchasing items which may or may not be authentic or appropriate. Mechanicsburg, PA: Stackpole Books, 1999. Most units require members to be at least 16 years old before they can fall into ranks with a musket because of the maturity necessary to handle a firearm. Many units will choose opposite unit impressions that have something to do with the primary unit they portray, or perhaps a unit that passed through their home area. Following are some useful terms to acquaint you with Civil War Reenacting. While still too small in numbers to simulate actual Civil War battles, the mega-events at least gave reenactors a sense of what the major battles would have been like. American Civil War reenactment is an effort to recreate the appearance of a particular battle or other event associated with the American Civil War by hobbyists known (in the United States) as Civil War reenactors, or living historians.. There is no poll showing where reenactors live, but observation would put a majority of them in The South. For instance, the Stonewall Brigades list is located here. In 1913 elderly Union and Confederate veterans met at the 50th anniversary of Gettysburg and put themselves through their pacesbut without the muskets they had used against each other. Buy at a reenactment or with the help of an experience unit member. Our principal reason for existence is to promote an authentic portrayal of Civil War history to the . Mega-events made it hard to lose ones self in the moment when a narrator was giving blow-by-blow accounts of the battle over loud speakers. The ones below have been in business for years and may be considered the mainstays of the hobby. Confederate States or Confederate States Army. Your mentor can also assist you in finding used gear either from unit members or outside resources like eBay or Facebook. Any unit you contact should be extremely welcoming and do everything they can to have you join their ranks. Reenactments vary greatly in size, with events in New England typically showcasing 100500 infantry, while the 150th anniversary of Gettysburg in 2013 is expected to field more than 15,000 reenactors, plus thousands of civilian interpreters, 400 horses, and 100 cannon. By Robert Arvay. It is ultimately more important that you be happy and fulfilled in reenacting to ensure the hobby remains vibrant than for any particular unit to add an additional musket to the ranks. or C.S.A. That is what reenacting is all about; trying to live for a weekend like a Civil War soldier or civilian to figure out how they did it. Eric Tetreault/Connecticut Renaissance Faire. Just as in the Civil War armies, men who take on the rank must be able to perform at that rank. During the Civil War Native Americans, Blacks, Asians, and Hispanics fought on both sides. BOOK TIP: "The Illustrated Battle Cry of Freedom: The Civil War Era". At battles where the 24th Michigan with its distinctive long frock coats and tall black hats was not present, the men of the 26th North Carolina Troops put on common Union shell jackets and portray whatever Union units were present. Finding an organization for a child to partake in is not difficult. Historical reenactment groups and living history groups offer an insight into how men and women lived in past times. Threadcounter A reenactor who insists on a historically accurate impression, down to fabric and buttonholes having the same threadcount typical of the time. Too far forward, and the percussion cap is exploding in his ear. Living histories take place at the actual battlefield by invitation from the National Park Service. Reenacting remained a small hobby during the mid-1970s when events numbering several hundred reenactors were common. The North Florida Artillery was incorporated as a non-profit organization in the state of Florida in March 2007. Local video entrepreneurs filmed those 125th anniversary reenactments on VHS tapes, selling them to the reenactors who hoped to see themselves acting as Civil War soldiers. Many reenactors are completely outfitted with clothing, packs, gear, and vehicles their typical persona would carry. They like to bring tents, camp chairs, hidden ice chests, and other gear that the original army would never have had. Extreme Points of the United States (States & Territories), Federal issue forage cap (dark or indigo blue), State issue forage cap with McDowell visor (dark or indigo blue), Federal fatigue blouse ("sack coat," dark or indigo blue) with four brass buttons, Federal trousers, foot pattern (sky blue), Issue muslin shirt (or other period pattern), USM1855 cartridge box, .58 caliber, mid-war model (black leather), USM1855 bayonet scabbard (black leather, one-piece Springfield style), M1853 three-band .577 caliber Enfield rifle musket and bayonet, Musket sling for M1853 Enfield (untreated leather), Haversack, U.S. regulation wartime issue (black tarred canvas), USM1858 smooth side canteen (jean cloth or dark blue wool cover) with strap (leather preferred over cotton drill or linen). Immerse yourself in the time period by reading books and primary source documents related to the area, and the type of person you've chosen to portray. Welcome to the official website of the Georgia Division Reenactors Association! What's more, you could get hurt. Gear - How much a reenactor spends on their gear is a product of individual means, love for the hobby, and type of unit. Perhaps you have a friend in the hobby who has encouraged you to give it a try. Few units allow people in 21st century garb to camp in the military camp as it detracts from the reenactment atmosphere. "How to Get Started With Historical Reenacting." Reenacting units are organized in companies and regiments by reenactors from the same geographic area, much as Civil War companies and regiments were organized. Stitch counters are authenticity historians who know the history of hats, shoes, uniforms, muskets, buttons, even how a uniform was manufactured thus the nick name. Used by permission of Kathleen Smith. While the three-banded musket is standard, there might be the occasional chance to carry something else. I receive a small amount of compensation when you purchase from my links at no additional cost to you. Now that the sesquicentennial is over, the future of reenacting is being debated. Invitation events are smaller events where organizers limit the number of participants in order to better manage the scale. Most people take their roles seriously and pride themselves on representing history as accurately as possible. Perhaps a particular company or regiment in the war had distinctive uniforms. "Dream Job: Historical Reenactor." . As you build your knowledge, there is a wealth of information available in online archives and books drawn from soldiers letters, diaries, and post-war memoirs. Attend a few such reenactment events and talk to members of the involved groups to learn more about their reenactment focus and activities. Special Thanks "Become a Member." Civilian reenactors are the least expensive impressions to achieve, and have the most flexibility since the clothes chosen can range from elegant to simple. The troops do their best to mimic the movements of the actual battle, but as in real war, things often don't go according to plan! Most reenactment groups have extra clothing, uniforms,costumes, and props that they are willing to loan to newcomers. This practice of changing uniforms to fit the reenactments needs is called galvanizing based on a real term applied to captured Confederates who were released from prison camps if they joined the Union army to go west to fight Indians. Most reenactment groups are very welcoming to new people and will show you the ropes and even outfit you until you can gradually acquire your own kit. Their website is: www.campchase.com), The Citizens Companion focuses on civilian reenacting and is also published by the same company that publishes Camp Chase Gazette.