A police officer grips a corner of a torn U.S. flag at a memorial ceremony in New York on Sept. 11, 2004. (2020, August 26). ThoughtCo. Finding a reenactment group isn't as easy as looking at a map and finding the unit closest to you. A haversack, a kind of handbag worn over the left shoulder, is generally black. Too far back and the soldier in the front rank is too close to the muzzle blast. A colonial shopkeeper will have a pretty simple costume compared to a Civil War general's uniform. Reenacting is at a cross-roads. Be prepared to be footsore! For a great description of womens clothing and textiles during the Civil War, read this Civil War Fashion piece by Kathy Dhalle on the Bits of Blue & Gray website. 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. If the unit is a horse-drawn battery, the reenactors are expected to help groom, water, and feed the horses. 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. Reenactors accept discomfort, port-a-johns, close quarters, and the aches that come with carrying gear that weighs 20 pounds or more. That means single reenactors in a specialty uniform must search out similar reenactors to fall in with at events. With the exception of events where rains flood the battlefield, reenactments are rarely cancelled for heat or cold. Most organization will not watch your 10 year old kid all day. Are you interested in conducting research into tiny details of soldiers lives? 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. We are a Civil War reenactment group based in Murfreesboro, Tennessee that portrays the 9th Kentucky Volunteer Infantry (US). Is there a list or quartermaster who do I need to contact to get involved as a reenactor for the civil war. To a CIVIL WAR reenactment. 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. 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. Civil War soldiers or civilians didnt have digital watches or plastic frame eyeglasses. With sound recordings, new generations could hear the Rebel yellyelped by 95-year-old men who still had the spunk to give it. While the three-banded musket is standard, there might be the occasional chance to carry something else. 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. Living Histories at original battlefields are by invitation by the National Park Service or the states that also maintain battlefields. Eric Tetreault/Connecticut Renaissance Faire. While these stories may transport you to Elizabethan England or ancient Rome, they're still fiction, after all, and don't always provide authentic history lessons. Check with your reenacting unit before buying any gun. st croix zillow dollar genetal near me bnha x innocent reader. Living history events include encampments, parades, and school enrichment programs. Most units will have a decent collection of clothes, gear, and even muskets that you can borrow, but it is often difficult to find loaner shoes since many reenactors only own a single pair. The state of Pennsylvania hosted thousands of former Union and Confederate soldiers during the weeklong event. There is no age requirement for being a Civil War reenactor, but, of course, minors will need to have their parents approval and support. The persona is sometimes referred to as an impression. And, if one wants, one can carry original muskets if they are safe. Once the basics are purchased, reenactors move on to acquire other gear like a canvas dog tent, or a larger A-frame tent, a gum or rubber blanket/poncho for putting down on the ground or wearing as rain gear, and cooking gear like tin frying pans and cooking grates. Hand to hand combat is heavily scripted, never engage on your own. Please Keep Reenactment Discussions in Proper Forum! They will take on the persona of one who is living through the period and will not speak in modern language. If you can find material written by men from the unit you portray, even better. Reenactors take their jobs very seriously. 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. Your mentor can also assist you in finding used gear either from unit members or outside resources like eBay or Facebook. Experience being part of bringing our nation's most turbulent and tragic era to life. The majority of reenactors choose to be soldiers, but even in a military reenactment group, there are other characters, such as wives, camp followers, surgeons, tinkers and sutlers (merchants). 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. A plastic mug would be farby as would a polyester uniform since they didnt have polyester in 1861. Reenactors sacrifice immense amounts of time, effort, and money to recreate history. For official duties, these youngstersoften between 10 and 14were called on to fill supporting roles such as drummers, buglers, messengers, and field assistants. The 49th Indiana Volunteer Infantry is Indiana's oldest, largest and best drilled civil war unit. Two TV mini-series, Blue & Gray (1982), and North & South (1985) drove interest in reenacting in the early 1980s. I. Delaware. Attend a few such reenactment events and talk to members of the involved groups to learn more about their reenactment focus and activities. 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. People come to Civil War reenacting in a myriad of ways. At some late-war battles such as Bentonville, North Carolina and Saylers Creek, Virginia, Federal units armed with repeating rifles chewed into Confederate ranks. Subscribe to our newsletter * indicates required. It is common to find Black reenactors sprinkled in the Confederate ranks. The stitch counters can belong in either the mainstream or the campaigner camp. 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. Otherwise, the 60 grains of powder and a piece of paper wadding for each charge is authentic. There are essentially three types of reenactors; mainstream, campaigners, and stitch counters. Real sticklers discourage men from wearing wedding bands as that custom was not around during The Civil War. We've got you covered with our map collection. They are great foundational introductions to the topic. 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. 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. 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. Young Civil War Reenactor (photo by D. Farr). We strive for accurate historical depiction of our original unit." YouTube Video Creator "History Boy" Drummer, 8th Connecticut Volunteer Infantry Co. This list is by no means complete. Here is a sampling of an infantry soldier's kit from the website of the 28th Massachusetts, Volunteer Infantry, 4th Regiment, Irish Brigade: Federal issue forage cap (dark or indigo blue) 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. . While those shows inspired then young, now-middle aged reenactors to study the war, the producers paid little attention to authenticity. Check out our article How to Join a Reenactment Group. No reenactor will respond to an unknown general who walks onto the field and tries to take command of units who do not know him. Colorado Connecticut. Focused events try to recreate parts of battles. Home | 49th Indiana Volunteer Infantry, Co.F Reenactments and national parks help reimagine what life was like for Or, Dad can stay in the military camp while Mom and the kids stay in a civilian camp. It might be a good idea to spring for the unit's annual fee for insurance coverage in case of an injury. Winter reenactors will want heavy overcoats which can cost upwards of $300. The 150th Manassas, Virginia event was held when the temperature on the field was 114 degrees. Civil War reenactors attempt to answer Footes rhetorical question by putting their 21st century selves into the roles of 19th century people. Kimberly Powell is a professional genealogist and the author of The Everything Guide to Online Genealogy. Do your research before making any purchases to ensure that you get the most authentic bang for your buck. 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. Youre obviously interested in the Civil War, otherwise you wont be considering reenacting. And many battle reenactment societies require that you acquaint yourself thoroughly with the manual of arms. 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. 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. Reenactors living near each other form around a company that comes from that same geographic area. Most units have a list of acceptable gear and approved sutlers. 21st Virginia, F Company, inc., is a non-profit, tax-exempt 501 (c)3 , living history, educational and Civil War re-enactment organization. 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. Some units have fifers and drummers. 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 the Civil War Native Americans, Blacks, Asians, and Hispanics fought on both sides. The three types seem to always be warring with each other in blog posts with the campaigners laughing at the age of the mainstreamers; the mainstreamers laughing at the campaigners with their dirty faces; and the stitch counters laughing at both of them for wearing a uniform that was proper in 1862, but which wasnt worn in 1864. How To Get Started With Historical Reenacting - ThoughtCo Help/Ideas for Organizing a Reenactment - American Civil War Forums Becoming a historical re-enactor requires an unquenchable thirst for history and abiding patience with uncomfortable accommodations and ridiculous outfits. Reenacting. I receive a small amount of compensation when you purchase from my links at no additional cost to you. 21 Virginia F-Company American Civil War Society. The 52nd Tennessee Infantry .com/us/military/civil-war-reenactor.html. The easiest way for children to get involved in reenacting is to do it as a family. (May 8, 2009) http://www.2ri.org/become_a_member.htm, Bromer, Zachary. Reenactors do not dwell on that terrible human cost. Historical reenactors are known for being sticklers for accuracy. Reenacting for many is a serious, but fun, event. How to Get Started With Historical Reenacting. Since the war took place in the South, it is more difficult for Yankees in Northern states to make the events in the Southern states. Aside from physical distance, a reenactor needs to take into consideration a few factors. The age restriction on handling firearms does not prevent one from taking part in the hobby. Be sure to look into this. These organizations will often have a camp life where young ones can partake in 1860's life styles. A more specialized type of reenactment is living history, which requires reenactors to adopt specific historic personas and engage directly with the public to educate them about a certain period. BOOK TIP: "The Illustrated Battle Cry of Freedom: The Civil War Era". The dues are an important aspect of keeping reenactment groups operating. Depending upon your reenactment scenario, this may be a real individual or a fictional one who could have lived during your time period of interest. These reenactors can make a modest living by working in museums or historic sites such as Plymouth, Mass., or Williamsburg, Va. 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. Reenactors generally participate in three types of events: Battle reenactments are scripted recreations of actual Civil War engagements, which spectators pay to come and watch. How Civil Wars Start - Foreign Policy Powell, Kimberly. Larger regiments will combine those companies to form a state-wide organization. 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. Mega-events, reenactments where reenactors number several thousand, are likely gone forever now that the 150th anniversary events ended in 2015. 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. 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. Whoever is physically able can take to the battlefield with certain age restrictions. The largest event was the 135th Gettysburg reenactment which involved 15,000 reenactors. 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. 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. Keep attending reenactments until you find a period that suits your specific interests and talents. Reenactor Groups by State Listing presented by the Quartermaster Shop She teaches at the Genealogical Institute of Pittsburgh and the Salt Lake Institute of Genealogy. How the Civilian Conservation Corps Worked, Historical Reenactment Costumes and Equipment, 2nd Rhode Island Regiment. While headquartered in Richmond, Virginia, our membership encompasses Maryland, North Carolina and Pennsylvania. If youre interested in an immersive, authentic experience, joining a mainstream unit will be a poor fit. The further that is away from the face, the better. 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. 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. "How to Get Started With Historical Reenacting." 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. If you crave intrigue and a dash of melodrama, historical fiction can make the past come alive. Reenacting units staged living histories to explain weapons and uniforms at venues like schools and public parks to recruit new hobbyists. 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. The granddaddy of all Civil War sutlers started outfitting reenactors in the mid-1970s. While some historians downplay or even deny the existence of gun-toting Black Confederates, insisting the only Blacks in Confederate gray were body servants, Black reenactors often have family knowledge that their ancestors did fight for the Confederacy. Are you really excited about being a part of large battle reenactments? Scouring the sutlers' goods may also set you up for an impulse buy that your historic persona doesn't really need. This can mean everything from uncomfortable clothes and terrible food to inclement weather and a poor excuse for a bed. The main thing one has to learn is the infantry drill, and to follow orders to execute maneuvers. The USCTs fought as all Black units commanded by white officers. The N word season pass premium + membership is in full effect for the day. Some units are thinking of staging parts of battles as authentically as possible, complete with the scaled down, but statistically correct numbers of casualties, and the maneuvers mentioned in survivor accounts. Unit Type - Not all organizations are the same. 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. Confederate States or Confederate States Army. 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. Becoming a Civil War Reenactor - InfoPlease What does it take to start a civil war? - American Thinker A group of men this size can engage in brigade drill, practicing the same types of maneuvers the Civil War soldiers learned in order to face an enemy coming from any direction. Over the past weekend, the Brays hosted the first encampment training of 2021 at their home for the 3rd Maine reenactment unit, the largest in Maine. Immersion events are small reenactments that attract campaigners. The most stare-inducing women reenactors are those ladies portraying Catholic nuns who served as nurses during the war. Too far forward, and the percussion cap is exploding in his ear. The important thing to remember is the child still needs adult supervision. Being at that part of the line during the reenactment is special as it clearly reinforces the advantage the Union army had with repeating rifles. It is particularly valuable for its calendar of upcoming events, and book reviews. Uniforms are all wool for Federal portrayals, and a wool and cotton blend for Confederates. The ones below have been in business for years and may be considered the mainstays of the hobby. 9th KY Need a reference? We had a weekend with perfect weather and many exciting and educational activities. While reenacting is fun, it is also a physically taxing hobby. Threadcounter A reenactor who insists on a historically accurate impression, down to fabric and buttonholes having the same threadcount typical of the time. Civilian A person, male or female, who reenacts any non-military impression during Reenactments. There are a wide variety of canteens including wooden ones that Confederate soldiers carried, but which would not be appropriate for Union soldiers. Get a feel for the atmosphere and conditions of a living history event before you rush to buy vintage style military uniforms & equipment. R. Lee Hadden. The 49th Indiana, Company F is Indiana's oldest and largest nonprofit organization devoted to portraying life during the American Civil War. Many units have loaner gear or special requirements. Sutlers set up large tents at reenactments and also sell on-line. The Event Wire - Information. Mountains might be climbed. Impression Many reenactors will choose an impression during a reenactment. How do your feet feel after marching 22 miles in a single day in thin-soled brogans? 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. "How to Become a Re-Enactor." Florida. Historical reenactment groups and living history groups offer an insight into how men and women lived in past times. (May 8, 2009) http://www.salary.com/personal/layoutscripts/psnl_articles.asp?tab=psn&cat=cat011&ser=ser032, Miller, John. Not only does it reinforce our sense of pride in our heritage, but its something in which the entire family can participate. Brush up on your geography and finally learn what countries are in Eastern Europe with our maps. If looking to dive into Vietnam reenacting, the number one piece of advice is to speak to a unit before making purchases. For instance, Revolutionary War-era equipment is generally more expensive than Civil War weapons. By the time Ken Burns PBS special The Civil War debuted in 1990 interest in the War was on an upswing. Being a Civil War reenactor is about stepping back in time to create believable characterpersonaor what reenactors call an impression. And that's not including weaponry: An M1 Garand will put you out $700 to $900, while other period guns cost less than $100. Reenactors put themselves in the shoes of those from an earlier time where food was scarce, disease was rampant, and a good nights sleep might mean sleeping in the mud. That means most Union forces on Southern battlefields likely talk with Southern accents even though they are in blue. In 2014 the name was changed to North Florida Artillery Historical Foundation, Inc. was established as a non profit/IRS organization. There are scores of sutlers who operate regionally and nationally. While two-banded muskets were very common in ranks during the War, reenactors should not use them because of safety concerns with respect to the length of the barrel. First-person When a reenactor speaks to fellow reenactors and the public as a person during the 1860s. 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. They will speak as though the War Between the States is current. 4 June 2009. Our principal reason for existence is to promote an authentic portrayal of Civil War history to the . Arkansas Infantry Reenactors. You'll also have to brush up on the language and customs specific to the era. The United States Marines wear distinctive crossed white belts. that appeal to campaigners. Here are the facts and trivia that people are buzzing about. Military reenactors will choose infantry, artillery, cavalry or medical (and a few others such as engineers or sharpshooters) and many will choose a civilian impression. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Reenacting can be a family hobby with Dad, Mom, and the kids all portraying 19th century roles. While the majority of soldiers were in the 1840 age range, in many enlistment cases birth years were overlooked, or were fabricated. Take your hits (deaths) If you wish to fight in a different unit that a family member fought in during the civil war. We come from in and around Shelby County. Are you looking for something you can do with your family? The NPS decided that mock battles detracted from the commemorative nature of the battlefields. 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. 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. One place to find equipment for sale is at the reenactment events. 3 rd Florida Volunteer Infantry, Co. 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. Some larger units will have majors, lieutenant colonels and colonels. Most reenactors join the infantry, which is followed in popularity by the artillery, then the cavalry and there are a few naval interpreters. Find WW1 Reenactment groups to join now! The website also lists a number of sutler websites. 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. There is at least one Civil War era brass band using period instruments and playing period music. When you're starting out as a volunteer, the unit you're working with will probably have a spare uniform you can borrow. Perhaps you have a friend in the hobby who has encouraged you to give it a try. While it is rare, people have died from the exertion. https://www.thoughtco.com/getting-started-with-reenacting-1422852 (accessed March 5, 2023). Reenactment Groups in Central Kentucky - American Civil War Forums Any unit you contact should be extremely welcoming and do everything they can to have you join their ranks.
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how to join a civil war reenactment group