how to join a civil war reenactment group
Still, American Civil War reenactments can take place wherever the hobbyists can find ground. The easiest way for children to get involved in reenacting is to do it as a family. By clicking Accept All Cookies, you agree to the storing of cookies on your device to enhance site navigation, analyze site usage, and assist in our marketing efforts. Reenactors adopt what they call impressions based on the type of person they want to portray. Reenacting events come in varying categories. 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. A few options to consider. WELCOME TO THE 49TH INDIANA CO.F. 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. 21st Virginia, F Company, inc., is a non-profit, tax-exempt 501 (c)3 , living history, educational and Civil War re-enactment organization. Both sides tolerate them. We come from in and around Shelby County. Stan Honda . 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. We seek to commemorate the great hardships and sacrifices of the soldiers and citizens of Indiana during our nation's most turbulent and defining moment in history, the American Civil War. 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. Read more. If its not, consider trying another group. She teaches at the Genealogical Institute of Pittsburgh and the Salt Lake Institute of Genealogy. Battle Cry of Freedom: The Civil War Era is a Pulitzer Prize-winning work on the American Civil War. Welcome! The largest event was the 135th Gettysburg reenactment which involved 15,000 reenactors. 1) Put the Credit Card Away: The absolute best advice anyone can give you is to delay purchasing any gear. What reenacting does is give men and women a chance to walk in the footsteps of those people who came before us just a little over 150 years ago. Check your local newspaper or reenactment Web sites for listings of upcoming reenactment events in your area. While there are several models such as an early war smoothbore musket, or a mid-war rifle musket, there are really only two brand choices for infantry. The United States Marines wear distinctive crossed white belts. Are you interested in conducting research into tiny details of soldiers lives? There are essentially three types of reenactors; mainstream, campaigners, and stitch counters. There is no age requirement for being a Civil War reenactor, but, of course, minors will need to have their parents approval and support. Invitation events are smaller events where organizers limit the number of participants in order to better manage the scale. Retrieved from https://www.thoughtco.com/getting-started-with-reenacting-1422852. 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. There are three types of reenactors; mainstreamers who do not fit the Civil War image of young thin soldiers and bring extra gear for comfort, campaigners who pride themselves in living rough in the open and achieving authenticity and stitch counters who pay attention to details of the history of uniforms and equipment and who generally maneuver with either mainstreamers or campaigners. 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]. Too far forward, and the percussion cap is exploding in his ear. 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. During fights with frequent firing, muskets have been known to cook off, a pre-mature explosion of the black powder poured down the barrel caused by a still-burning spark. Eric Tetreault/Connecticut Renaissance Faire. Reenacting units staged living histories to explain weapons and uniforms at venues like schools and public parks to recruit new hobbyists. The Centennial created some interest in Hollywood, resulting in some Civil War era television shows like The Gray Ghost (1957) and The Americans (1961), and movies like Shenandoah (1965). Oftentimes, a young person will find themselves interested in living history but struggle to get involved. 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. The reason is obvious. Powell, Kimberly. Experience being part of bringing our nation's most turbulent and tragic era to life. 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. By Robert Arvay. Reenacting units are organized in some of the same ways as Civil War companies and regiments. Civil War Encampment & Reenactment 2021 August 5, 2021 | Education, Events and Programs, Historic Hanna's Town Thank you to everyone who joined us for the biannual Civil War Encampment and Reenactment! Before showtime, pots and pans are some of the tools reenactor Tanya Haessly makes the most use of as a camp cook, feeding families and individuals taking part in a Civil War reenactment in Janney . Young Civil War Reenactor (photo by D. Farr). Powell, Kimberly. When brigaded with other units, a reenactor general may command 200-300 men. By now you are probably wondering, "how much is all of this going to cost me? Marches can range from a mile or so from camp to the battlefield to more than 20 miles at special events. We'll assume you're ok with this, but you can opt-out if you wish. Most units will be eager to help you select gear that fits with their authenticity standards and will offer up the unit commander, a non-commissioned officer, or another senior member to mentor you through your initial purchases. You must have a passion for history and an active imagination. While the three-banded musket is standard, there might be the occasional chance to carry something else. Of course, you might decide that Civil War reenactments aren't your cup of tea, and you'd prefer to dabble in the Colonial era. Reenacting the Civil War as a hobby got off to a shaky start during in the 1960s when authenticity was ignored in favor of doing something, anything, to commemorate the Centennial. Each reenactor has a specific role to play, so volunteers are expected to have extensive knowledge of the historical event as well as the time period in which it occurs. The Texas Rifles are seeking men and women of valor to join us and thousands of other history-minded hobbyists to experience, first hand, one of the country's fastest-growing, most unique recreational activities. Becoming a historical re-enactor requires an unquenchable thirst for history and abiding patience with uncomfortable accommodations and ridiculous outfits. While reenacting is fun, it is also a physically taxing hobby. Local living histories at venues such as historically themed parks are where many potential reenactors see their first living historians. If you're interested in volunteering as a Civil War reenactor, the entire kit (including uniform, canteen, weapon and leatherwear) will cost about $850 to $1,500 [source: Miller]. Speculation among reenactors is that smaller, focused events is where the hobby is headed. Once you invest time and money into historical volunteerism, you'll likely find great reward from all your efforts. This can be a great way to save money, but make sure you run all major purchases by your mentor to ensure youre buying quality gear and not getting swindled. In exchange for staging drill and firing demonstrations for the visiting public, the reenactment units (usually those with a reputation for authenticity) are allowed to camp on the actual battlefields. Like any hobby, there is a broad spectrum within reenacting with different informal clusters of individuals and groups focusing more or less attention on authenticity. 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. Do not make the mistake of spending a lot of money on gear that ends up gathering dust in your basement or up for sale on eBay. Don't buy a uniform or other equipment until you've joined a unit, which might have its own particular rules for attire. Tacticals are unscripted battles which are usually not open to the public. Attend a few such reenactment events and talk to members of the involved groups to learn more about their reenactment focus and activities. Reenacting Civil War battles began during the War when both sides staged mock battles when heavy snows kept the men in camp from going out and killing each other. 2 nd Connecticut Volunteer Heavy Artillery Regiment, Co. In other words, you can try it out and see how you like it. The persona is sometimes referred to as an impression. This list is by no means complete. Reenactor A person, male or female, dedicated to recreating the War Between the States or Civil War. On the downside in terms of authenticity, they operate in much smaller groups that sometimes preclude them from being able to do the complicated drills that Civil War regiments would have done, and which the mainstreamers relentlessly practice. Most large re-enactment events take place outdoors, so spring through fall are very active times of the year for the majority of these groups. For instance, Revolutionary War-era equipment is generally more expensive than Civil War weapons. Choose a Persona So, many die-hard history-lovers volunteer in historical reenactments for an action-packed and enlightening experience. Civil War Traveler lists a variety of events, including reenactments, searchable by state so newcomers can see some reenactments in person and talk to unit members. The thinking is that events where only several hundred troops are participating can be much more manageable and affordable to stage than the huge events that required hundreds of acres of land for the reenactment itself, plus parking for thousands of participants and spectators. If the unit is dedicated to historical accuracy, the accommodations will be meager. Learn more about the mythic conflict between the Argives and the Trojans. 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. Your email address will not be published. If you have the time, it can even be fun to learn to make some of your clothing or items yourself, just as it was done in the past. It is where the Civil War soldier carried his food and where the reenactor will carry his food, wallet and car keys. "How to Volunteer in Historical Reenactments" They will speak as though the War Between the States is current. Photos from the time period show some men marching in ranks with M-1 Garands, World War II semi-automatic rifles. Children were active participants in the Civil War. While those shows inspired then young, now-middle aged reenactors to study the war, the producers paid little attention to authenticity. The future of reenacting rests on the shoulders of younger generations. American Civil War Society. 8th Confederate Cavalry / 7th Kentucky Cavalry, 3rd Arkansas Volunteer Infantry Company A, 1st Arkansas US Volunteer Infantry Regiment, 2nd Connecticut Volunteer Heavy Artillery Regiment, Co. There is at least one Civil War era brass band using period instruments and playing period music. Some of the young men who started reenacting decades ago when the 125th anniversary events attracted them are now passing through middle age. They should also have a list of recommended vendors that sell uniforms and equipment that meet their units standards. They'll have fun watching the excitement, and you'll get to teach them about history. The hobby of Civil War reenacting continues to attract participants and spectators who care about Civil War history and the 19th century people who lived it. Most reenacting units require members to own dual impressions; both Union and Confederate. That inattention to historical details led to groan-inducing scenes (for reenactors anyway) in Shenandoah where Jimmy Stewarts teenaged son grabs a Trapdoor Springfield and starts fighting. Campaigners are usually young and pride themselves in carrying a minimal amount of gear, sleeping in the open, and being as uncomfortable as they can be, which was the way it was. Reenacting remained a small hobby during the mid-1970s when events numbering several hundred reenactors were common. 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. Most reenactors are everyday people from all walks of life, with ages ranging from 16 to people in their sixties. If you've gotten this far then hopefully you've put some thought into this endeavor. Perry's Headquarters Flag, Authentic, Original, Antique Civil War Cavalry Boots, 1840-Civil War Authentic Mechanic/ Wheel Cap Campaigner Repro by Mike Anderson, A RARE AUTHENTIC ORIGINAL EARLY CIVIL WAR CAVALRY UNIFORM, Authentic General US Grant Civil War Currier and Ives Lithograph Original Frame. Instead they staged brigade-sized snowball fights. Need a reference? 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. Germany . 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. Most reenactors collect their kit over a period of time, borrowing from generous fellow soldiers until they are fully outfitted. Muster A gathering, especially of troops, for service, inspection, review or roll call. There are scores of sutlers who operate regionally and nationally. 5) Purchase Slowly and Strategically: When you are ready to start purchasing gear, take your time and make your purchases strategic. Check out our article How to Join a Reenactment Group. Living histories take place at the actual battlefield by invitation from the National Park Service. In a reenactment, a persona is a character and role that you choose to portray. Other less expensive options are impressions of a civilian water boy, drummer boy, messenger, or just a regular kidthey were certainly, if unfortunately, caught up in the war. This manual includes such things as company tactics and firing details [source: Miller]. The age restriction on handling firearms does not prevent one from taking part in the hobby. These organizations will often have a camp life where young ones can partake in 1860's life styles. To submit a reenactment group for consideration, please contact us here.