For instance, Revolutionary War-era equipment is generally more expensive than Civil War weapons. Civil War reenacting group in Colorado, Wyoming, Texas, and New Hampshire. Your mentor can also assist you in finding used gear either from unit members or outside resources like eBay or Facebook. Gear - How much a reenactor spends on their gear is a product of individual means, love for the hobby, and type of unit. The easiest way for children to get involved in reenacting is to do it as a family. Copyright 2023 All Rights Reserved by Milsurpia. The 26th North Carolina Troops and the 24th Michigan ran head-on into each other on the first day of Gettysburg in McPhersons Woods. Civil War Reenactment is one of the fastest growing hobbies in the United States, and with good reason. While reenacting is a hobby, it has some of the trappings of operating in an actual army. Figure the cost of your accessories into your budget, too. We do this by portraying soldiers and citizens at . Kimberly Powell is a professional genealogist and the author of The Everything Guide to Online Genealogy. Read more. However, it is important that you find a unit that is a good match for you if you want to continue to enjoy reenacting over the long-haul. And many battle reenactment societies require that you acquaint yourself thoroughly with the manual of arms. Immersion events are small reenactments that attract campaigners. Infoplease is part of the Sandbox Learning family of educational and reference sites for parents, teachers and students. What period of history most grabs your interest? 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. They should also have a list of recommended vendors that sell uniforms and equipment that meet their units standards. Finding a reenactment unit has gone 21st century. We are active from Virginia to New England. 3 rd Florida Volunteer Infantry, Co. Time and place generally work together, so while you're picking your time period, you will generally have a certain location in mind as well. 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. This manual includes such things as company tactics and firing details [source: Miller]. If you wear eyeglasses, consider purchasing period frames high on your shopping list as well. Also welcome are Black reenactors portraying slaves or free blacks, teamsters, horse handlers, or other roles common to the period. I receive a small amount of compensation when you purchase from my links at no additional cost to you. Any unit youre interested in joining should be eager to loan you a uniform and equipment for your first few events (if they are not or if youre pressured to purchase equipment right away, youre probably considering the wrong unit). There are essentially three types of reenactors; mainstream, campaigners, and stitch counters. ThoughtCo. 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. Unit Dues - Unit dues are typically the cheapest of all expenses. When you're starting out as a volunteer, the unit you're working with will probably have a spare uniform you can borrow. Here you can find a list of groups that portray the Great War period. 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. Their website is: http://www.citizenscompanion.com/. The reason is obvious. While this material is of interest to reenactors, our hobby requires a detailed knowledge of the daily experience of individual soldiers. How do I join a unit as a reenactor? That could be in California, Wisconsin, or even Russia. The same uniforms worn in the summer are worn in the winter. A reenactor could choose that impression by joining a reenacting unit following those uniform guidelines. 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. 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. Powell, Kimberly. Young Civil War Reenactor (photo by D. Farr). .com/us/military/civil-war-reenactor.html. There is no age requirement for being a Civil War reenactor, but, of course, minors will need to have their parents approval and support. Is there a list or quartermaster who do I need to contact to get involved as a reenactor for the civil war. Mountains might be climbed. That will mean pushing long hair under a hat, taking off ear rings, and doing their best to hide the evidence of being female. 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. 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. The stitch counters can belong in either the mainstream or the campaigner camp. The further that is away from the face, the better. The persona is sometimes referred to as an impression. Salary.com. To volunteer in historical reenactments, you'll be dedicating your time, sacrificing your modern comforts and paying a pretty penny. The totally geared up reenactor will invest around $2 500 to $3 000 however that equipment with the exception of brogans will last as long as the reenactor will. In a reenactment, a persona is a character and role that you choose to portray. By now you are probably wondering, "how much is all of this going to cost me? Arkansas Infantry Reenactors. In other words, you can try it out and see how you like it. Check out our article How to Join a Reenactment Group. Horses, though trained to expect loud noises from cannons, rifles, pistols and clanging sabers, sometimes throw their riders to the ground. 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. (2020, August 26). Perhaps a particular company or regiment in the war had distinctive uniforms. A canteen holding about two quarts of water is critical. 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. 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. It is up to reenactors to know if they have the stamina to participate in the action. The basic costs of outfitting an infantryman are between $1,500 and $2,000 which rises to $2,500 to $3,000 with the purchase of tents, ponchos, cooking gear, overcoats and other additional gear. If you're portraying a poor farmer during the Revolutionary War, then don't purchase a fancy rifle that would have been out of his financial grasp. If you can find material written by men from the unit you portray, even better. Scouring the sutlers' goods may also set you up for an impulse buy that your historic persona doesn't really need. 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). If you have an interest in our American History during the period of 1861-1865, we invite you to join our ranks. While the majority of soldiers were in the 1840 age range, in many enlistment cases birth years were overlooked, or were fabricated. Modern day work boots are not acceptable. 2022 Sandbox Networks Inc. All rights reserved. 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. Period clothing and accessories can be very expensive -- depending on the period and figure you're portraying. Once you invest time and money into historical volunteerism, you'll likely find great reward from all your efforts. Children were active participants in the Civil War. 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. Immersion events are small reenactments where reenactors carry everything with them with no resupply from vehicles. BOOK TIP: "The Illustrated Battle Cry of Freedom: The Civil War Era". Reenactors adopt what they call impressions based on the type of person they want to portray. They carried Sharps rifles. Since 1974, we have represented Indiana's civil war heritage in movies and documentaries, for newspapers and TV, and at schools, museums and reenactments across the US. 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. Reenacting units are organized in companies and regiments by reenactors from the same geographic area, much as Civil War companies and regiments were organized. The United States Marines wear distinctive crossed white belts. CIVIL WAR REENACTING | How to Join a Unit 9,438 views Premiered Mar 6, 2019 405 Dislike Share Save Studio T Reenacting 3.33K subscribers https://28thmass.org Lately I've noticed quite a. Hand to hand combat is heavily scripted, never engage on your own. Camping with ones friends can be an attractive incentive to pack up the gear and drive away rather than staying home doing chores. While headquartered in Richmond, Virginia, our membership encompasses Maryland, North Carolina and Pennsylvania. "How to Volunteer in Historical Reenactments" Learn fife or drum. When looking through our list of reenactment groups, be sure to really think about what is important to you. A love of history of all time periods is common though reenactors focus on the 19th century. Reenactors believe that a weekend playing soldier or civilian brings them closer to understanding the experiences of the men and women who lived in that time. The website also lists a number of sutler websites. 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! Most reenacting units require members to own dual impressions; both Union and Confederate. Thanks for reaching out John we just got in touch to provide you some additional information. This list is by no means complete. 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. Not only does it reinforce our sense of pride in our heritage, but its something in which the entire family can participate. 21st Virginia, F Company, inc., is a non-profit, tax-exempt 501 (c)3 , living history, educational and Civil War re-enactment organization. What's more, you could get hurt. 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. You will need to visit a sutlery (supply store run by a civilian, a "sutler"), either online or in person, in order to get your basic gear, called a "kit". There are alternative ways to get your history education. 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. 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 . But, for whatever reason, something about recreating the life of a Civil War soldier resonates with you and youre interested in joining the hobby. Load more. I. Delaware. How do war reenactments work? Battle Cry of Freedom: The Civil War Era is a Pulitzer Prize-winning work on the American Civil War. 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. Most reenactment organizations also won't allow children under 16 to bear arms. Marches can range from a mile or so from camp to the battlefield to more than 20 miles at special events. The Event Wire - Information. 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. Many organizations, particularly Civil War, offer family friendly scenarios. Although most common in the United States, there are also American Civil War reenactors in Canada, the United Kingdom, Germany, Australia, Italy, Denmark . For many people, there's nothing drier than a dense history book. It was anticipation of the 125th anniversary events, starting in 1986, when reenacting turned into a serious hobby. Event Dues - This can really depend on the event and what is provided with the fee. Most people choose a reenactment group that operates fairly close to home - at least within a day's drive. Unit Type - Not all organizations are the same. A Civil War Reenactment will have various units such as artillery, cavalry, or infantry units. 53rd Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry Company C, Inc. Company B of the 71st Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry, 87th Regiment, Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry, Company C, 97th Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry Company A, 97th Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry Co B, 151st Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry, Company D, 10th Virginia Volunteer Infantry Regiment, 12th Virginia Infantry, Companies A, B, C, D, E, F, G, H, I, and K, Co. E of the Second Wisconsin Volunteer Infantry, 33d Regiment - Wisconsin Volunteer Infantry, Company K, 2nd Wisconsin Volunteer Infantry Association, Company E, 3rd Regiment, Confederate Engineers. 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. Most organization will not watch your 10 year old kid all day. Infoplease knows the value of having sources you can trust. Too many curious volunteers have spent hundreds of dollars on costumes and equipment only to find out that the experience is more grueling than they bargained for. 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. Reenactors sacrifice immense amounts of time, effort, and money to recreate history. 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 main thing one has to learn is the infantry drill, and to follow orders to execute maneuvers. 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. Shopping online is a good alternative to making purchases at a reenactment. These characteristics can be challenging to identify by examining a units website or Facebook page or by chatting with the members at an event. It is one of the rich ironies of reenacting that Black Confederates march side by side with white Confederate reenactors, while Black Union troops usually only participate in battles where the USCTs were present such as New Market Heights, Virginia., and Olustee, Florida. As a Civil War reenactor you will become a soldier, or a civilian, wearing authentic 1860s period clothing and learning to live as . Sutlers Merchants who followed troops during the Civil War. 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. Are you really excited about being a part of large battle reenactments? Most units have a list of acceptable gear and approved sutlers. But if you're more interested in other wars or time periods, don't despair. To submit a reenactment group for consideration, please contact us here. 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. Once the leather gear, muskets, and bayonets are purchased, only the opposite sides coat and pants are a necessary purchase to correctly portray the other side. The N word season pass premium + membership is in full effect for the day. No detail about a reenactors appearance should be ignored. Mega events involve thousands of reenactors. So, many die-hard history-lovers volunteer in historical reenactments for an action-packed and enlightening experience. New reenactors start as privates and promotion to non commissioned officer or officer status depends on passing tests and demonstrating an ability to command larger bodies of men in maneuvers on the field. 2) Consider What You Want Out of Reenacting: Spend some time thinking about what aspects of reenacting interest you. 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. By the time Ken Burns PBS special The Civil War debuted in 1990 interest in the War was on an upswing. Think about who you are in real life,or the person you secretly want to be, and translate that to an individual who lived during your time period of interest. 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. Living Histories at original battlefields are by invitation by the National Park Service or the states that also maintain battlefields. 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. Also: Post Your Event Photos, Reviews, & Wrap-Ups. 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. The problem with these specialty impressions is that they only operate as units. Reenacting is at a cross-roads. 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. Becoming a historical re-enactor requires an unquenchable thirst for history and abiding patience with uncomfortable accommodations and ridiculous outfits. Living histories take place at the actual battlefield by invitation from the National Park Service. Reproduction clothing can cost several hundred dollars, and reproduction period rifles as much as $1000. 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. Threadcounter A reenactor who insists on a historically accurate impression, down to fabric and buttonholes having the same threadcount typical of the time. 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. Local living histories at venues such as historically themed parks are where many potential reenactors see their first living historians. 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. While the three-banded musket is standard, there might be the occasional chance to carry something else. How did my ancestors survive battles, diseases, and prison camps on far away battlefields then return home to produce me? These events help reenactors immerse themselves in the reenacting experience, gaining first-hand knowledge of war, battle strategy, and the hardships of combat. Experience being part of bringing our nation's most turbulent and tragic era to life. Once you do, it's time to create your own historical persona. AUTHENTIC Civil War Flag General W.F. 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. 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. Germany . Many reenactors are completely outfitted with clothing, packs, gear, and vehicles their typical persona would carry. Get a feel for the atmosphere and conditions of a living history event before you rush to buy vintage style military uniforms & equipment. Families wishing to stay together all weekend can portray civilians. While reenacting is fun, it is also a physically taxing hobby. The youngest vet eran was 61 and the oldest was 112. Brogans are broad-soled half boots with leather soles worn by the common foot soldier. That means single reenactors in a specialty uniform must search out similar reenactors to fall in with at events. 4. American Civil War Reenactment Groups Historical reenactment groups and living history groups offer an insight into how men and women lived in past times. Have you often wondered what it might have been like to actually live in the past? Learning an instrument is typically the easiest way for children to get involved. 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. Choose a Persona Historical reenactors are known for being sticklers for accuracy. Prospective reenactors should research units to judge how accepting they are of family participation. Colorado Connecticut. 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. If you are up to the task, here's some information to get you started. Check your local newspaper or search the Internet to find a reenactment near you. I show up. The Stonewall Brigade is an authentic living history association concentrated in Virginia, West Virginia, Maryland, and Pennsylvania dedicated to accurately portraying the common soldier of the Civil War. Learn more about the world with our collection of regional and country maps. Attend a few such reenactment events and talk to members of the involved groups to learn more about their reenactment focus and activities. . 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. Perhaps you have a friend in the hobby who has encouraged you to give it a try. Events Could Include: Reenactments, Living Histories, Round Tables, Battlewalks, Shows, Lectures & More. If its not, consider trying another group. 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. Some people do take the "authenticity" to an extreme, but most groups welcome anyone with an interest. Reenacting. Our principal reason for existence is to promote an authentic portrayal of Civil War history to the . Some civilian reenactors may choose to portray professions such as mortician or battlefield surgeon with some women roaming the field as nurses. 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. Most reenactment groups have extra clothing, uniforms,costumes, and props that they are willing to loan to newcomers. How to Get Started on a Literature Review, Discovering the Occupations of Your Ancestors, Ancient Sources on Persian or Iranian History, Fun Family History Activities for Family Reunions, 3 Practical Ways to Become a Better Homeschooling Teacher, Certificate in Genealogical Research, Boston University. Focused events try to recreate parts of battles. The derogatory term for this same person is stitch nazi.. 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. Encampments allow visitors to wander through a Civil War camp and observe soldiers training, resting, playing, and simply relaxingall without television, iPods, or computers! The age restriction on handling firearms does not prevent one from taking part in the hobby. The largest event was the 135th Gettysburg reenactment which involved 15,000 reenactors. Post Advance Schedules Up to 1 Year in Advance. Just as in the Civil War armies, men who take on the rank must be able to perform at that rank. Before you start investing cash in reenacting, attend enough events to ensure that its a hobby that you truly enjoy and want to purse. Authentic Campaigner is a blog dedicated to events, impressions, goods, etc. A Civil War Reenactment is the recreation of past battles for the education and entertainment of both spectators and hobbyists alike. In particular, take notice of the grisly conditions a reenactor has to deal with -- especially in battle reenactments. Infantry is the easiest branch to learn and to finance. Civil War Reenactment Groups The American Civil War, fought between 1861 and 1865, continues to live on in the form of living history reenactments.
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