how to join a civil war reenactment group

Besides the weather elements, there may be holes in the field that twist ankles, yellow jacket nests that are disturbed, and poison ivy and poison oak lurking in the woods. The most famous reenactment of the 1960s was the July 1961 Battle of First Manassas or Bull Run, held on the Manassas National Battlefield. 5) Purchase Slowly and Strategically: When you are ready to start purchasing gear, take your time and make your purchases strategic. Perhaps the most famous civil war in history began on April 12, 1861, when secessionist Southerners attacked the United States Army garrison at Fort Sumter, South Carolina . Infantry is the easiest branch to learn and to finance. or C.S.A. Powell, Kimberly. 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. Sometimes, you'll be able to find authentic uniforms to wear to reenactments, especially for 20th-century wars. All reenactors come into the unit as privates. Aside from physical distance, a reenactor needs to take into consideration a few factors. 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. 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. Retrieved from https://www.thoughtco.com/getting-started-with-reenacting-1422852. While still too small in numbers to simulate actual Civil War battles, the mega-events at least gave reenactors a sense of what the major battles would have been like. Active members, either military or . 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. 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. 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. Farby is a Civil War Reenactment term for anything not typical of the period. Almost every reenactor can tell you stories about uniforms or equipment they rushed to purchase when they first started out and later regretted after they learned it was of poor quality or didnt fit the impression they ultimately pursued. Some of the young men who started reenacting decades ago when the 125th anniversary events attracted them are now passing through middle age. Reenactment, appropriately called "living history," also means living under the same conditions encountered during the past. 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. Learn more about the mythic conflict between the Argives and the Trojans. 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. Now that the sesquicentennial is over, the future of reenacting is being debated. Families wishing to stay together all weekend can portray civilians. 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. John Miller, a veteran reenactor who specializes in the Civil War, warns prospective volunteers that the hobby can get dangerous [source: Miller]. Civilian reenactors are the least expensive impressions to achieve, and have the most flexibility since the clothes chosen can range from elegant to simple. The 52nd Tennessee Infantry These characteristics can be challenging to identify by examining a units website or Facebook page or by chatting with the members at an event. In addition to special uniforms, some reenactors will be tempted to get special firearms. These can range anywhere from $5 a month to $25 a month. Beginners should start by attending Civil War Reenactments and observing what goes on. Find WW1 Reenactment groups to join now! Unit Dues - Unit dues are typically the cheapest of all expenses. Many units keep a stock of uniforms and other equipment on hand in order to let people try the hobby out rather than invest in it only to discover that they do not really like playing the role of a 1860s soldier. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Are you really excited about being a part of large battle reenactments? Just about anyone with an interest in reenactment can become a reenactor. The United States Colored Troops, the freemen and runaway slaves who joined the Union army in numbers around 180,000, are a small, but highly appreciated branch of reenacting. We'll assume you're ok with this, but you can opt-out if you wish. Living History Archive. We are active from Virginia to New England. Did you have ancestors who participated in a particular war? If you can find material written by men from the unit you portray, even better. Reenacting units are organized in some of the same ways as Civil War companies and regiments. Most reenactment organizations also won't allow children under 16 to bear arms. Most reenactment groups have extra clothing, uniforms,costumes, and props that they are willing to loan to newcomers. Learn more about the world with our collection of regional and country maps. 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. 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. But if you're more interested in other wars or time periods, don't despair. 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. Load more. A love of history of all time periods is common though reenactors focus on the 19th century. Camping with ones friends can be an attractive incentive to pack up the gear and drive away rather than staying home doing chores. During the Civil War Native Americans, Blacks, Asians, and Hispanics fought on both sides. 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. How to join a unit, where and how to k. The NPS decided that mock battles detracted from the commemorative nature of the battlefields. As a Civil War reenactor you will become a soldier, or a civilian, wearing authentic 1860s period clothing and learning to live as . Particularly welcomeand neededat reenactments are Black reenactors. With sound recordings, new generations could hear the Rebel yellyelped by 95-year-old men who still had the spunk to give it. Most reenactors join the infantry, which is followed in popularity by the artillery, then the cavalry and there are a few naval interpreters. Hundreds of . One place to find equipment for sale is at the reenactment events. 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]. It is common to find Black reenactors sprinkled in the Confederate ranks. Your email address will not be published. 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. When brigaded with other units, a reenactor general may command 200-300 men. That is my indication and EXPRESSED consent to be treated like a slave by all participating confederate soldiers. Special Thanks Prospective reenactors should research units to judge how accepting they are of family participation. 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. Are you interested in conducting research into tiny details of soldiers lives? Are you looking for a highly immersive experience that puts you right in the shoes of a Civil War soldier? 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. Once youre sure that the discomfort (sleeping on cots or bedrolls, wearing uncomfortable clothes, and generally avoiding anything farby) is worth it, then find a unit to join. Finally, there is the largest investment of all, the musket and bayonet. 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. You'll also have to brush up on the language and customs specific to the era. Brogans are broad-soled half boots with leather soles worn by the common foot soldier. This website uses cookies to improve your experience. Shopping online is a good alternative to making purchases at a reenactment. Be prepared to be footsore! Most people choose a reenactment group that operates fairly close to home - at least within a day's drive. ThoughtCo. American Civil War Reenactment Groups - Living History archive Youre obviously interested in the Civil War, otherwise you wont be considering reenacting. Get a feel for the atmosphere and conditions of a living history event before you rush to buy vintage style military uniforms & equipment. Threadcounter A reenactor who insists on a historically accurate impression, down to fabric and buttonholes having the same threadcount typical of the time. If its not, consider trying another group. That part of history cannot be changed. The basic costs of outfitting an infantryman will run between $1,500 and $2,000 with the bulk of the cost being in the $800 musket. 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. (May 8, 2009) http://www.salary.com/personal/layoutscripts/psnl_articles.asp?tab=psn&cat=cat011&ser=ser032, Miller, John. 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 . Stan Honda . Children were active participants in the Civil War. For official duties, these youngstersoften between 10 and 14were called on to fill supporting roles such as drummers, buglers, messengers, and field assistants. Civil War Reenactment Groups - Milsurpia Which branch reenactors join is up to their interest in each branchand their financial resources. If you have an interest in our American History during the period of 1861-1865, we invite you to join our ranks. Perhaps you have a friend in the hobby who has encouraged you to give it a try. 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]. https://28thmass.orgLately I've noticed quite a few of you showing more interest in Civil War reenacting specifically. Larger regiments will combine those companies to form a state-wide organization. American Civil War Reenactment Groups. I receive a small amount of compensation when you purchase from my links at no additional cost to you. The North Florida Artillery was incorporated as a non-profit organization in the state of Florida in March 2007. Company B, the reenacting group, is dedicated to preserving the legacy of the 54th Massachusetts Volunteer . Many organizations, particularly Civil War, offer family friendly scenarios. To volunteer in historical reenactments, you'll be dedicating your time, sacrificing your modern comforts and paying a pretty penny. 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. Reproduction clothing can cost several hundred dollars, and reproduction period rifles as much as $1000. Work with your unit point of contact to ensure that the items you select even from these vendors are appropriate, since not every jacket a particular vendor offers will fit your units desired impression. Reenactors 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. Our editors update and regularly refine this enormous body of information to bring you reliable information. 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. 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. 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. This is especially important when it comes to clothing and weaponry, as we'll see on the next page. 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. Young Civil War Reenactor (photo by D. Farr). 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. Learn about one of the world's oldest and most popular religions. How did my ancestors survive battles, diseases, and prison camps on far away battlefields then return home to produce me? Period clothing and accessories can be very expensive -- depending on the period and figure you're portraying. What period of history most grabs your interest? 2nd Rhode Island Regiment. Sutlers Merchants who followed troops during the Civil War. And finally, muskets are real guns. Real sticklers discourage men from wearing wedding bands as that custom was not around during The Civil War. First-person When a reenactor speaks to fellow reenactors and the public as a person during the 1860s. Battle Cry of Freedom: The Civil War Era is a Pulitzer Prize-winning work on the American Civil War. So, many die-hard history-lovers volunteer in historical reenactments for an action-packed and enlightening experience. 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. Finding a reenactment group isn't as easy as looking at a map and finding the unit closest to you. Check out our article How to Join a Reenactment Group. That could be in California, Wisconsin, or even Russia. This list is by no means complete. A few options to consider. Impression Many reenactors will choose an impression during a reenactment. 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. If you're thinking about volunteering in a historical reenactment, experienced reenactors will tell you that you shouldn't delve into this hobby without knowing what you're getting into. 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. Thats why reenactors, like Civil War soldiers, are trained to not put their hand over the muzzle of the musket; least they get a palm full of painful, burning powder. 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. For the Bray family in Brunswick, American Civil War reenactment is more than just a historical hobby it's a family affair. 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. The dues are an important aspect of keeping reenactment groups operating. 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. The 150th Manassas, Virginia event was held when the temperature on the field was 114 degrees. People come to Civil War reenacting in a myriad of ways. These can range anywhere from $5 a month to $25 a month. 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. Florida. 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. Check your local newspaper or search the Internet to find a reenactment near you. 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. Being a Civil War reenactor is about stepping back in time to create believable characterpersonaor what reenactors call an impression. I. Delaware. CIVIL WAR REENACTING | How to Join a Unit - YouTube Children as young as 8 have been seen at many reenactments partaking in field music. 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". 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.