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Its educational and, finally, its a great way to escape the worries of today and pretend in the great outdoors. 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. Living Histories at original battlefields are by invitation by the National Park Service or the states that also maintain battlefields. For official duties, these youngstersoften between 10 and 14were called on to fill supporting roles such as drummers, buglers, messengers, and field assistants. How to join a reenactment group is not the hardest part of this journey, it's just the beginning. But if you want to portray a German soldier from World War II, the uniforms are pricier -- typically $300 to $400 [source: Miller]. Take your hits (deaths) If you wish to fight in a different unit that a family member fought in during the civil war. Instead they staged brigade-sized snowball fights. 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. There are a wide variety of canteens including wooden ones that Confederate soldiers carried, but which would not be appropriate for Union soldiers. We'll assume you're ok with this, but you can opt-out if you wish. 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. The Event Wire - Information. If its not, consider trying another group. If you wear eyeglasses, consider purchasing period frames high on your shopping list as well. Reenactors adopt what they call impressions based on the type of person they want to portray. 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 ]. The 26th North Carolina Troops and the 24th Michigan ran head-on into each other on the first day of Gettysburg in McPhersons Woods. The granddaddy of all Civil War sutlers started outfitting reenactors in the mid-1970s. The future of reenacting rests on the shoulders of younger generations. 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. While this material is of interest to reenactors, our hobby requires a detailed knowledge of the daily experience of individual soldiers. While the uniforms are generallywelluniform, hats (at least for Confederate portrayals) can be a matter of personal choice. Civilian A person, male or female, who reenacts any non-military impression during Reenactments. The persona you select should have some personal significance to you. There are Federal Zouave units who wear bright red pants, red trimmed jackets, and turbans. 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. 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. Reenactment, appropriately called "living history," also means living under the same conditions encountered during the past. What period of history most grabs your interest? Some people do take the "authenticity" to an extreme, but most groups welcome anyone with an interest. That model Springfield was not developed until 1869. The persona is sometimes referred to as an impression. 2022 Sandbox Networks Inc. All rights reserved. The USCTs fought as all Black units commanded by white officers. Arkansas Infantry Reenactors. All reenactors come into the unit as privates. By joining such a society, you'll have time to try out your persona before committing to any major purchases for your own kit. So, many die-hard history-lovers volunteer in historical reenactments for an action-packed and enlightening experience. Real sticklers discourage men from wearing wedding bands as that custom was not around during The Civil War. Reenacting does require a commitment, however, in both time and resources. 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. You must have a passion for history and an active imagination. Following are some useful terms to acquaint you with Civil War Reenacting. An Authentic Civil War Living History Association, Top Five Tips for Getting Started in Civil War Reenacting. Not all organizations allow family's along for the ride. If you have an interest in our American History during the period of 1861-1865, we invite you to join our ranks. That is also the reason why most leather gear is black, the standard Union color. 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. 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) A few options to consider. Children can usually even participate, although most reenactment groups have a minimum age (12 or 13 is common) for children to be allowed in more dangerous roles, such as on the battlefield. Germany . The 150th Manassas, Virginia event was held when the temperature on the field was 114 degrees. Reenacting for many is a serious, but fun, event. 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. Historical reenactment groups and living history groups offer an insight into how men and women lived in past times. The fully equipped reenactor will spend around $2,500 to $3,000, but that gear, with the exception of brogans, will last as long as the reenactor will. The age restriction on handling firearms does not prevent one from taking part in the hobby. Some of the young men who started reenacting decades ago when the 125th anniversary events attracted them are now passing through middle age. 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. Figure the cost of your accessories into your budget, too. 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. While those shows inspired then young, now-middle aged reenactors to study the war, the producers paid little attention to authenticity. How did my ancestors survive battles, diseases, and prison camps on far away battlefields then return home to produce me? Buy at a reenactment or with the help of an experience unit member. Required fields are marked *. 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. Many units have loaner gear or special requirements. The atmosphere is relaxed, allowing reenactors to recruit new members. 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 ]. 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. I receive a small amount of compensation when you purchase from my links at no additional cost to you. Reenacting remained a small hobby during the mid-1970s when events numbering several hundred reenactors were common. Also: Post Your Event Photos, Reviews, & Wrap-Ups. Horses, though trained to expect loud noises from cannons, rifles, pistols and clanging sabers, sometimes throw their riders to the ground. They will speak as though the War Between the States is current. While the vast majority of reenactors are standard uniformed Confederate and Union soldiers, there are some small numbers who wear unique uniforms. (May 8, 2009) http://www.2ri.org/become_a_member.htm, Bromer, Zachary. clear this with both units and dont just show up expecting to be ok. 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. Tacticals are unscripted battles which are usually not open to the public. Check with your reenacting unit before buying any gun. Oftentimes, a young person will find themselves interested in living history but struggle to get involved. 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. 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. "I decided to join the Civil War reenacting group that helped to make the movie." . 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). Learn more about the mythic conflict between the Argives and the Trojans. Kimberly Powell is a professional genealogist and the author of The Everything Guide to Online Genealogy. Impression Many reenactors will choose an impression during a reenactment. 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. Is there a list or quartermaster who do I need to contact to get involved as a reenactor for the civil war. 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. Any unit you contact should be extremely welcoming and do everything they can to have you join their ranks. 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. Check your local newspaper or reenactment Web sites for listings of upcoming reenactment events in your area. We are a Civil War reenactment group based in Murfreesboro, Tennessee that portrays the 9th Kentucky Volunteer Infantry (US). At some late-war battles such as Bentonville, North Carolina and Saylers Creek, Virginia, Federal units armed with repeating rifles chewed into Confederate ranks. Speculation among reenactors is that smaller, focused events is where the hobby is headed. For the sake of authenticity, women do not bear arms. Before you purchase a musket and show up to your first event, you may find the following tips useful. 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. 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. 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. 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. Infoplease is a reference and learning site, combining the contents of an encyclopedia, a dictionary, an atlas and several almanacs loaded with facts. Not all reenactment groups will offer the same experiences. And, they must already have relationships with the brigades and divisions they want to command. If you asked to galvanize (switch sides) for a battle or event, dont complain. California. Most people take their roles seriously and pride themselves on representing history as accurately as possible. Post Advance Schedules Up to 1 Year in Advance. Perhaps you have a friend in the hobby who has encouraged you to give it a try. Learning an instrument is typically the easiest way for children to get involved. For the Bray family in Brunswick, American Civil War reenactment is more than just a historical hobby it's a family affair. Young Civil War Reenactor (photo by D. Farr). Nothing spoils the look of a rank of men in a battle line then seeing someone wearing modern day glasses or ear rings. First-person - When a reenactor speaks to fellow reenactors and the public as a person during the 1860s. Invitation events are smaller with limited numbers of participants making them easier to manage. Living history events include encampments, parades, and school enrichment programs. The Centennial created some interest in Hollywood, resulting in some Civil War era television shows like The Gray Ghost (1957) and The Americans (1961), and movies like Shenandoah (1965). How to join a unit, where and how to k. "How to Volunteer in Historical Reenactments" Learn fife or drum. 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. Events Could Include: Reenactments, Living Histories, Round Tables, Battlewalks, Shows, Lectures & More. A police officer grips a corner of a torn U.S. flag at a memorial ceremony in New York on Sept. 11, 2004. Subscribe to our newsletter * indicates required. Don't be overwhelmed! "How to Get Started With Historical Reenacting." Used by permission of Kathleen Smith. Finding an organization for a child to partake in is not difficult. 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, or living historians.. Do you have a passion for Ancient Rome, medieval fashion, or Colonial America, and the Salem Witch Trials? 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. 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. "How to Get Started With Historical Reenacting." By now you are probably wondering, "how much is all of this going to cost me? Their website is: http://www.citizenscompanion.com/. "Become a Member." While headquartered in Richmond, Virginia, our membership encompasses Maryland, North Carolina and Pennsylvania. Find WW1 Reenactment groups to join now! Before you start investing cash in reenacting, attend enough events to ensure that its a hobby that you truly enjoy and want to purse. What did the Gettysburg artillery barrage sound like? 3 rd Florida Volunteer Infantry, Co. 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. 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. Whats not to like? While family involvement may be the goal of some reenactors, others enjoy the freedom of being away from the family on the weekend. 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. 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. If looking to dive into Vietnam reenacting, the number one piece of advice is to speak to a unit before making purchases. Reenactors often do more interacting with the visiting public such as performing drill and firing demonstrations, and giving flag and equipment talks. Infoplease knows the value of having sources you can trust. 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. Now i ma Immerse yourself in the time period by reading books and primary source documents related to the area, and the type of person you've chosen to portray. If you've gotten this far then hopefully you've put some thought into this endeavor. While the three-banded musket is standard, there might be the occasional chance to carry something else. Focused events try to recreate parts of battles. 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. 4. Reenacting events come in varying categories. Across the United States, Civil War battles rank among the most popular events to reenact -- they're often held on the original battlefields for true authenticity. First-person When a reenactor speaks to fellow reenactors and the public as a person during the 1860s. 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. 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 . They carried Sharps rifles. WW1 Reenactment Groups. Some units have fifers and drummers. 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. Florida. 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. These characteristics can be challenging to identify by examining a units website or Facebook page or by chatting with the members at an event. Finding a reenactment group isn't as easy as looking at a map and finding the unit closest to you. The largest event was likely the 135th Gettysburg reenactment where an estimated 15,000 attended. Most reenactors collect their kit over a period of time, borrowing from generous fellow soldiers until they are fully outfitted. Stan Honda . 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. Check your local newspaper or search the Internet to find a reenactment near you. Perhaps you have a deep interest in the Civil War and want to experience it and understand it in a way that books can never truly capture. Most people choose a reenactment group that operates fairly close to home - at least within a day's drive. The largest event was the 135th Gettysburg reenactment which involved 15,000 reenactors. We have members in four states Tennessee, Kentucky, Mississippi and Arkansas. In historical reenactments, people from all walks of life gather together, dressed head-to-toe in period clothing. That means most Union forces on Southern battlefields likely talk with Southern accents even though they are in blue. 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. If you are having any kind of encampment and want it in a certain order, let them know ahead of time. Typical costs for reenacting might include the following. Shopping online is a good alternative to making purchases at a reenactment. To a CIVIL WAR reenactment. Do your research before making any purchases to ensure that you get the most authentic bang for your buck. 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. A canteen holding about two quarts of water is critical. 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). Beginners should start by attending Civil War Reenactments and observing what goes on. Two TV mini-series, Blue & Gray (1982), and North & South (1985) drove interest in reenacting in the early 1980s. 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 . It is up to reenactors to know if they have the stamina to participate in the action. 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. 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. Most reenacting units have both a website and a Facebook page, making it easier for people to find local units. A Civil War Reenactment will have various units such as artillery, cavalry, or infantry units. With the exception of events where rains flood the battlefield, reenactments are rarely cancelled for heat or cold. Reenacting can be a family hobby with Dad, Mom, and the kids all portraying 19th century roles. 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. This is especially important when it comes to clothing and weaponry, as we'll see on the next page. 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. (May 8, 2009) http://www.salary.com/personal/layoutscripts/psnl_articles.asp?tab=psn&cat=cat011&ser=ser032, Miller, John. 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. 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. and then went into battle to save Lees army, but until one has marched that same route, it is all theory. Authenticity, while ignored in the 1960s, is now universally required by reenacting units. Reenactors accept discomfort, port-a-johns, close quarters, and the aches that come with carrying gear that weighs 20 pounds or more. Thanks for reaching out John we just got in touch to provide you some additional information. 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. Reenactor A person, male or female, dedicated to recreating the War Between the States or Civil War. Most organization will not watch your 10 year old kid all day. 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 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. Units of mainstreamers may number from 20 to 100. People come to Civil War reenacting in a myriad of ways. We strive for accurate historical depiction of our original unit." YouTube Video Creator "History Boy" Drummer, 8th Connecticut Volunteer Infantry Co. Families wishing to stay together all weekend can portray civilians. Civil War Reenacting makes an effort to list the websites of reenacting units, but, as might be expected, many units are not listed here. If the unit is a horse-drawn battery, the reenactors are expected to help groom, water, and feed the horses. Company B, the reenacting group, is dedicated to preserving the legacy of the 54th Massachusetts Volunteer . Muster A gathering, especially of troops, for service, inspection, review or roll call. 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. This can mean everything from uncomfortable clothes and terrible food to inclement weather and a poor excuse for a bed. Choose a Persona Although most common in the United States, there are also American Civil War reenactors in Canada, the United Kingdom,. The ones below have been in business for years and may be considered the mainstays of the hobby. But if you've got the mettle and undying enthusiasm for history, we'll walk you through the basics of how to get involved. Once you do, it's time to create your own historical persona. Brush up on your geography and finally learn what countries are in Eastern Europe with our maps. And that's not including weaponry: An M1 Garand will put you out $700 to $900, while other period guns cost less than $100. 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. 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]. Reenactments are only fun if there are enough enemies on the other side. The further that is away from the face, the better. The state of Pennsylvania hosted thousands of former Union and Confederate soldiers during the weeklong event. Also, merchants who set up during reenactments and sell period-style goods to reenactors and the public. Be sure to look into this. Living History Archive. BROOKSVILLE, Fla. - Each January, Hernando County scrambled to put out the welcome mat for what has been called the largest Civil War reenactment in Florida the Brooksville Raid. There are three types of reenactors; mainstreamers who do not fit the Civil War image of young thin soldiers and bring extra gear for comfort, campaigners who pride themselves in living rough in the open and achieving authenticity and stitch counters who pay attention to details of the history of uniforms and equipment and who generally maneuver with either mainstreamers or campaigners. Reproduction clothing can cost several hundred dollars, and reproduction period rifles as much as $1000. 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. 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. And finally, muskets are real guns. 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. And many battle reenactment societies require that you acquaint yourself thoroughly with the manual of arms. Mainstreamers cheerfully accept the nickname TBG- which stands for Tubby Bearded Guys. Historical reenacting gives you that chance. Brogans are broad-soled half boots with leather soles worn by the common foot soldier. The English Civil War Society UK: English Civil War: 1642 AD 1651 AD Combat reenactment, living history, educational visits, film and TV work Ermine Street Guard UK: Roman army: 50 AD 200 AD Combat reenactment, living history, TV and film work, education work, research Historia Normannis UK France USA: Middle Ages: 1100 1215 Combat reenactment . City, county and state governments and private entrepreneurs with connections to those reenacting units saw the tourist potential of staging mock battles on private or public land. A haversack, a kind of handbag worn over the left shoulder, is generally black. Here you can find a list of groups that portray the Great War period. R. Lee Hadden. Need a reference? Immersion events are small reenactments where reenactors carry everything with them with no resupply from vehicles. Unit Type - Not all organizations are the same. Farby is a Civil War Reenactment term for anything not typical of the period. In many war reenactments, there aren't roles for women on the battlefield, but some events have side attractions geared toward women, such as tea parties, craft activities and quilt shows. The N word season pass premium + membership is in full effect for the day. How do I join a unit as a reenactor? 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.