how to join a civil war reenactment group

how to join a civil war reenactment groupshallow wicker basket

Notify me of follow-up comments by email. Perhaps you have a friend in the hobby who has encouraged you to give it a try. Now i ma American Civil War Reenactment Groups. Can one really hear a Civil War era term the rattle of musketry? At the reenactments of those battles, Federal reenactors with access to repeating rifles like the 1860 Henry or the Spencer rifle or carbine will brigade together to recreate those particular actions. Figure the cost of your accessories into your budget, too. Civil War reenactors attempt to answer Footes rhetorical question by putting their 21st century selves into the roles of 19th century people. There are essentially three types of reenactors; mainstream, campaigners, and stitch counters. To a CIVIL WAR reenactment. Nearly all of the muskets available today are made in Italy, but some used ones manufactured back in the 1970s and 1980s are available from Japan and England. 4 June 2009. Events Could Include: Reenactments, Living Histories, Round Tables, Battlewalks, Shows, Lectures & More. 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. This can mean everything from uncomfortable clothes and terrible food to inclement weather and a poor excuse for a bed. Germany . Units Groups of Civil War reenactors who participate as an actual unit that fought during the War, i.e., the 7th Texas Infantry, the 69th New York or the 19th Alabama. This Forum is for Posting Civil War Event Information. But if you're more interested in other wars or time periods, don't despair. Each unit also has a slightly different personality and quirks they might be laid back or intense, their members may all have similar backgrounds and have known each other all their lives or they may be more diverse, they may be highly social at events and the life of the party or they may be more reserved. Do your research before making any purchases to ensure that you get the most authentic bang for your buck. Mega events involve thousands of reenactors. An Authentic Civil War Living History Association, Top Five Tips for Getting Started in Civil War Reenacting. Hundreds of . https://28thmass.orgLately I've noticed quite a few of you showing more interest in Civil War reenacting specifically. And that will generally be a four-wheel-drive SUV as all reenactors will one day find themselves in a muddy field wondering if they will be able to get out in time to get back to work on Monday. There are reenactment groups for almost any era that captures your interest, such as ancient Rome, the Middle Ages, the American Revolution or either of the World Wars. 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. A colonial shopkeeper will have a pretty simple costume compared to a Civil War general's uniform. There is no age requirement for being a Civil War reenactor, but, of course, minors will need to have their parents approval and support. 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. They like to bring tents, camp chairs, hidden ice chests, and other gear that the original army would never have had. We'll assume you're ok with this, but you can opt-out if you wish. Odds are that youve already read a decent amount about the war, but most Civil War books focus on the movements of vast armies and the leaders who directed them. Special Thanks Don't be overwhelmed! And many battle reenactment societies require that you acquaint yourself thoroughly with the manual of arms. Kimberly Powell is a professional genealogist and the author of The Everything Guide to Online Genealogy. You'll have the Web at your fingertips to research an object's authenticity -- and to compare prices from multiple vendors. 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. Or, Dad can stay in the military camp while Mom and the kids stay in a civilian camp. Authenticity, while ignored in the 1960s, is now universally required by reenacting units. If the idea of volunteering in historical reenactments is appealing to you, the first thing you should do is attend some of these events as a spectator. Learn more about the world with our collection of regional and country maps. They, in turn, showed the VHS tapes to younger historians, who learned that the soldiers on screen were not actors, but young men acting out their historical fantasies. 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. And, they must already have relationships with the brigades and divisions they want to command. 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. These can range anywhere from $5 a month to $25 a month. Don't buy a uniform or other equipment until you've joined a unit, which might have its own particular rules for attire. People come to Civil War reenacting in a myriad of ways. It is common to find Black reenactors sprinkled in the Confederate ranks. Period clothing and accessories can be very expensive -- depending on the period and figure you're portraying. Only a handful of men will make generals and they must know how to command at that level. 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. Youre obviously interested in the Civil War, otherwise you wont be considering reenacting. Once you invest time and money into historical volunteerism, you'll likely find great reward from all your efforts. By Robert Arvay. Finally, there is the largest investment of all, the musket and bayonet. As they learn how to be a soldier, they take tests and advance through the non-commissioned ranks to corporals and sergeants. 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. There is nothing inherently better or worse about any of these clusters they are each different ways of experiencing the hobby and it is important that you pick the one that most closely matches what interests you. 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. 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. Salary.com. Experience being part of bringing our nation's most turbulent and tragic era to life. Particularly welcomeand neededat reenactments are Black reenactors. 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, Civil War recreationists, or living historians. Reenacting. A Civil War Reenactment will have various units such as artillery, cavalry, or infantry units. It is up to reenactors to know if they have the stamina to participate in the action. Some units have fifers and drummers. And, if one wants, one can carry original muskets if they are safe. How to join a reenactment group is not the hardest part of this journey, it's just the beginning. For instance, the Stonewall Brigades list is located here. 4. Farby is a Civil War Reenactment term for anything not typical of the period. Here you can find a list of groups that portray the Great War period. Your email address will not be published. You may need to attend a handful of events with them before you get a good feel for the units personality and whether it is a good fit for you. Which branch reenactors join is up to their interest in each branchand their financial resources. Families wishing to stay together all weekend can portray civilians. Get a feel for the atmosphere and conditions of a living history event before you rush to buy vintage style military uniforms & equipment. A local company commander will be assigned to recruit new members, train them in the basics of military drill, and guide them in the purchase of the correct gear. Wearing historically accurate clothing is essential to your impression and attention to details is important, i.e. Infantry is the easiest branch to learn and to finance. If you asked to galvanize (switch sides) for a battle or event, dont complain. Most reenacting units have both a website and a Facebook page, making it easier for people to find local units. 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. Civilian A person, male or female, who reenacts any non-military impression during Reenactments. There are Federal Zouave units who wear bright red pants, red trimmed jackets, and turbans. Following are some useful terms to acquaint you with Civil War Reenacting. If its not, consider trying another group. For instance, the 26th Regiment of North Carolina Troops also portrays the 24th Michigan of The Iron Brigade when it reenacts as Federals. 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 . The Author (far right in a Derby) with Shelby Foote at a Reenactment in the Early 1990s, Photograph provided by: Color Sergeant Clint Johnson 26th Regiment of North Carolina Troops, Shelby Foote, a historian who spent more than 20 years writing a three-volume history of The Civil War, was surrounded by several reenactors outside of a university where he was speaking. Some of the young men who started reenacting decades ago when the 125th anniversary events attracted them are now passing through middle age. Finding a reenactment unit has gone 21st century. The only difference between the Civil War and the reenacting firing is that no Mini ball is rammed down the barrel. (May 8, 2009) http://www.2ri.org/become_a_member.htm, Bromer, Zachary. Your email address will not be published. Here are the facts and trivia that people are buzzing about. Emmitsburg Area Historical Society.http://www.emmitsburg.net/archive_list/articles/misc/re-enactor.htm, Special Offer on Antivirus Software From HowStuffWorks and TotalAV Security, How the Civilian Conservation Corp Worked. For example, most reenactors portray common soldiers, but maybe someone wants to portray a foreign-born ancestor so their impression will be augmented by speaking in an accent. 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. and then went into battle to save Lees army, but until one has marched that same route, it is all theory. Reproduction clothing can cost several hundred dollars, and reproduction period rifles as much as $1000. Once you've chosen a time period and character, you need to learn everything you can,from the way they dressed and ate, to their manner of speech, cultural beliefs, and social interactions. Both shows used reenactors for the first time, a revelation for Hollywood directors who suddenly realized that their extras knew how to act like Civil War soldiers. Now that the sesquicentennial is over, the future of reenacting is being debated. Sutlers Merchants who followed troops during the Civil War. Reenacting events come in varying categories. The largest event was likely the 135th Gettysburg reenactment where an estimated 15,000 attended. Perhaps you have a friend in the hobby who has encouraged you to give it a try. Reenactors often do more interacting with the visiting public such as performing drill and firing demonstrations, and giving flag and equipment talks. https://www.thoughtco.com/getting-started-with-reenacting-1422852 (accessed March 5, 2023). Civil War News is a monthly newspaper that covers news about battlefield preservation, and reenacting. Reenactors accept discomfort, port-a-johns, close quarters, and the aches that come with carrying gear that weighs 20 pounds or more. In 2014 the name was changed to North Florida Artillery Historical Foundation, Inc. was established as a non profit/IRS organization. They'll have fun watching the excitement, and you'll get to teach them about history. One of the last Civil War reenactments by Civil War vet erans was the Great Reunion of 1913, on the 50th anniversary of the Battle of Gettysburg. During the Civil War Native Americans, Blacks, Asians, and Hispanics fought on both sides. Powell, Kimberly. But if you want to portray a German soldier from World War II, the uniforms are pricier -- typically $300 to $400 [source: Miller]. With sound recordings, new generations could hear the Rebel yellyelped by 95-year-old men who still had the spunk to give it. These can range anywhere from $5 a month to $25 a month. Check your laws! "How to Get Started With Historical Reenacting." Your mentor can also assist you in finding used gear either from unit members or outside resources like eBay or Facebook. If they try for officer ranks like lieutenant and captain, they must take even more rigorous tests to demonstrate that they know the commands that moved men around the field. 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. American Civil War Reenactment Groups Historical reenactment groups and living history groups offer an insight into how men and women lived in past times. A haversack, a kind of handbag worn over the left shoulder, is generally black. 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. Fit for Effective Service: Virginia Arms Her Stonewall Brigade, Its Ancient Reputation: The Stonewall Brigade at Cedar Mountain, The Stonewall Brigade at Gettysburg Part Four: The Fate of the Flags, How to Adapt a Confederate ANV Impression by Time Period, Top Tips for Transitioning From Mainstream to Authentic Reenacting. Both sides tolerate them. Some units focus on the military side of reenacting, preferring to keep civilian women in a separate camp while other units allow children to run around the military camp. After all, every one of the reenactors at an event arrived in a 21st century vehicle of some kind. A reenactor could choose that impression by joining a reenacting unit following those uniform guidelines. Perhaps a particular company or regiment in the war had distinctive uniforms. It publishes articles such as how to cut and pack rations of raw pork, how to properly do bayonet drill, calendars of events, and how to contact different reenactment units. American Civil War Society. "How to Volunteer in Historical Reenactments" Whats not to like? Learn how your comment data is processed. I, Eighth Regiment Connecticut Volunteers, Company A, Incorporated, 11th Regiment Connecticut Volunteer Infantry, Company G, Fourteenth Regiment Connecticut, Van Dyke's Howitizers 1st Florida Artillery. These events were often staged with paying spectators in mind, leading to sights that irritated reenactors such as rushing the enemy in a chargebut with multi-tiered bleachers behind the enemy. For the Bray family in Brunswick, American Civil War reenactment is more than just a historical hobby it's a family affair. Gear - How much a reenactor spends on their gear is a product of individual means, love for the hobby, and type of unit. Civilian - A person, male or female, who reenacts any non-military impression during Reenactments. 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. Becoming a historical re-enactor requires an unquenchable thirst for history and abiding patience with uncomfortable accommodations and ridiculous outfits. Mega-events also created problems for reenactors such as too little and too far away parking, too little drinking water, and too few port-a-johns. Copyright 2023 All Rights Reserved by Milsurpia. They are great foundational introductions to the topic. That means single reenactors in a specialty uniform must search out similar reenactors to fall in with at events. 7th Florida Infantry Regiment, Company F. 21st Georgia Volunteer Infantry Civil War Reenactment Unit, 24th Georgia vols Company B civil War reenacting group, Company A, 2nd Battalion Georgia Sharpshooters, 104th Illinois Volunteer Infantry Company H, First Maryland Volunteer Infantry Regiment, 28th Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry Company B, 4th Texas Co. E / 16th Michigan Co. B Civil War Reenactors, Reynolds' Battery L 1st New York Light Artillery, 75th Ohio Volunteer Infantry Regiment, Company A, Company "C" 2nd Regiment Berdan Sharpshooters. If you choose an active reenactment role, you'll need to be in good health, capable of the physical activity and lack of everyday comforts that are inherent in reenacting. Some civilian reenactors may choose to portray professions such as mortician or battlefield surgeon with some women roaming the field as nurses. We come from in and around Shelby County. 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. Children were active participants in the Civil War. "Dream Job: Historical Reenactor." The problem with these specialty impressions is that they only operate as units. For the sake of authenticity, women do not bear arms. The problem with modern day reenacting for USCTs is that they were not at many of the major battles because the original Union generals refused to put them into ranks beside white soldiers and because significant numbers werent enlisted or trained until the middle of 1863. For official duties, these youngstersoften between 10 and 14were called on to fill supporting roles such as drummers, buglers, messengers, and field assistants. 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. Just how much does it cost to be a Civil War reenactor? Welcome to the official website of the Georgia Division Reenactors Association! A canteen holding about two quarts of water is critical. The persona you select should have some personal significance to you. A love of history, a desire to better understand what Civil War era soldiers and civilians experienced, the pleasure of camping with friends and cooking over an open fire all explain why reenactors follow this hobby. 21st Virginia, F Company, inc., is a non-profit, tax-exempt 501 (c)3 , living history, educational and Civil War re-enactment organization. Reenactors sacrifice immense amounts of time, effort, and money to recreate history. Living History Archive. During the Civil War Native Americans, Blacks, Asians, and Hispanics fought on both sides. While headquartered in Richmond, Virginia, our membership encompasses Maryland, North Carolina and Pennsylvania. Battle reenactments are scripted recreations of actual Civil War engagements, which spectators pay to come and watch. For further reading suggestions and links to many of these online resources, please see the Stonewall Brigades Recommended Reading list. Speculation among reenactors is that smaller, focused events is where the hobby is headed. Reenactors living near each other form around a company that comes from that same geographic area. Most reenactors join the infantry, which is followed in popularity by the artillery, then the cavalry and there are a few naval interpreters. Many groups may bridge these labels and there is a great degree of variation within the clusters, but generally reenacting organizations fall into one of the following categories: 3) Do Your Research on Units: The current reality of the reenacting hobby is that every unit is eager, if not borderline desperate, to add new recruits to their ranks. The granddaddy of all Civil War sutlers started outfitting reenactors in the mid-1970s. Just as in the Civil War armies, men who take on the rank must be able to perform at that rank. If you are up to the task, here's some information to get you started. It is where the Civil War soldier carried his food and where the reenactor will carry his food, wallet and car keys. But, there are legitimate roles for reenactors in their early teens to act as runners, or fifers or drummers if they are musically inclined to join units which have field musicians. Not all organizations allow family's along for the ride. Before you purchase a musket and show up to your first event, you may find the following tips useful. This is especially important when it comes to clothing and weaponry, as we'll see on the next page. They are also made from a relatively standardized style, so they can be used across a wide variety of impressions should you ultimately decide to join another unit or develop a different impression. These groups often focus on reenactment of wars, offering members (and sometimes the public) a glimpse of what life was like during the conflicts that shaped history. Event Dues - This can really depend on the event and what is provided with the fee. If you have any specific ideas, try to make those known as far in advance as possible so the re-enactors know what to expect and can plan to do what you wish. 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. After a near disaster where one reenactor was hit by a Mini ball fragment left in a musket that had been live fired before the event, the National Park Service thereafter banned reenactments from being held on its battlefields. Check with your reenacting unit before buying any gun. They are encouraged to buy their opposite impression as soon as they can afford the cost. While Confederate regulations called for a kepi, most men opted for a slouch hat, a broad-brimmed hat of varying styles. Once a prospective reenactor joins a unit the next step is to buy gear from sutlers, merchants specializing in the hobby named after the original civilian shop keepers who catered to the needs of Civil War soldiers. Historical reenactment groups and living history groups offer an insight into how men and women lived in past times. Most units have a list of acceptable gear and approved sutlers. If youre interested in an immersive, authentic experience, joining a mainstream unit will be a poor fit. Although most common in the United States, there are also American Civil War reenactors in Canada, the United Kingdom, Germany, Australia, Italy, Denmark . Most reenacting units are equipped to act as either Federal or Confederate troops in order to be able to balance numbers at reenacting events. Too far forward, and the percussion cap is exploding in his ear. 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. Many organizations, particularly Civil War, offer family friendly scenarios. "Become a Member." Muskets are real guns and fire a full powder charge but no bullet. Keep attending reenactments until you find a period that suits your specific interests and talents. Aside from physical distance, a reenactor needs to take into consideration a few factors. They will take on the persona of one who is living through the period and will not speak in modern language. Living history events include encampments, parades, and school enrichment programs. 5) Purchase Slowly and Strategically: When you are ready to start purchasing gear, take your time and make your purchases strategic. Subscribe to our newsletter * indicates required. Powell, Kimberly. 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. A basic infantryman's kit can be assembled starting around $1,000, but once you start adding in costly replica weapons and period-authentic accoutrementsor you have your heart set on being a cavalry officeryou could easily spend many thousands. When looking through our list of reenactment groups, be sure to really think about what is important to you. Florida. They are wondering if sleeping on the ground is as much fun as it was when they were young. 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. Unit Dues - Unit dues are typically the cheapest of all expenses. A police officer grips a corner of a torn U.S. flag at a memorial ceremony in New York on Sept. 11, 2004. 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. 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. 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. A plastic mug would be farby as would a polyester uniform since they didnt have polyester in 1861. 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. BOOK TIP: "The Illustrated Battle Cry of Freedom: The Civil War Era". While some of the research is now a bit dated, there is no better place to start than Bell Wileys classicsThe Life of Johnny Reb: The Common Soldier of the Confederacyand The Life of Billy Yank: The Common Soldier of the Union. The further that is away from the face, the better. 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. Brush up on your geography and finally learn what countries are in Eastern Europe with our maps. How to Get Started With Historical Reenacting. or C.S.A. Members may portray either a military impression, or one of many civilian roles which are appropriate to the Civil War period. Hand to hand combat is heavily scripted, never engage on your own. This website uses cookies to improve your experience. While this material is of interest to reenactors, our hobby requires a detailed knowledge of the daily experience of individual soldiers. In particular, take notice of the grisly conditions a reenactor has to deal with -- especially in battle reenactments. Both firearms are basically the same, but it is critical that reenactors choose the longer 3-banded models over the sometimes available two-banded models. - Confederate States or Confederate States Army. Most people take their roles seriously and pride themselves on representing history as accurately as possible. The most famous reenactment of the 1960s was the July 1961 Battle of First Manassas or Bull Run, held on the Manassas National Battlefield. The same uniforms worn in the summer are worn in the winter. 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. Too far back and the soldier in the front rank is too close to the muzzle blast.

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