how to join a civil war reenactment group

A typical period correct firearm will cost upwards of $1000. Mega-events, reenactments where reenactors number several thousand, are likely gone forever now that the 150th anniversary events ended in 2015. Are you looking for something you can do with your family? 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. We come from in and around Shelby County. 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. That does not mean that single, unit-unaffiliated Black reenactors in blue will not be allowed in ranks at reenactments such as Gettysburg, but it is not historically accurate. On the downside in terms of authenticity, they operate in much smaller groups that sometimes preclude them from being able to do the complicated drills that Civil War regiments would have done, and which the mainstreamers relentlessly practice. 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. The 26th North Carolina Troops and the 24th Michigan ran head-on into each other on the first day of Gettysburg in McPhersons Woods. And that's not including weaponry: An M1 Garand will put you out $700 to $900, while other period guns cost less than $100. Learn how your comment data is processed. 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. The persona is sometimes referred to as an impression. That will mean pushing long hair under a hat, taking off ear rings, and doing their best to hide the evidence of being female. If there were other units at the events you attended who seemed like a better fit for what youre looking for, consider contacting them about falling in at their next event. 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 note for reenactors living in states with strict gun laws. Local living histories at venues such as historically themed parks are where many potential reenactors see their first living historians. Reenacting units staged living histories to explain weapons and uniforms at venues like schools and public parks to recruit new hobbyists. 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! If looking to dive into Vietnam reenacting, the number one piece of advice is to speak to a unit before making purchases. Powell, Kimberly. The stitch counters can belong in either the mainstream or the campaigner camp. "How to Become a Re-Enactor." That means single reenactors in a specialty uniform must search out similar reenactors to fall in with at events. For instance, Revolutionary War-era equipment is generally more expensive than Civil War weapons. Choose a Persona The 125th Franklin, Tennessee event was held in minus 10 wind chill. Just as in the Civil War armies, men who take on the rank must be able to perform at that rank. But if you've got the mettle and undying enthusiasm for history, we'll walk you through the basics of how to get involved. 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. You may want to speak candidly with your current units commander about what youre looking for in another unit, as they may have contacts or suggestions for other units that you can consider (if a unit commander isnt willing to do this, its probably a sign you should leave that unit anyways, as theyre not looking out for your best interests). 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. Mainstreamers cheerfully accept the nickname TBG- which stands for Tubby Bearded Guys. 4) Read As Much As You Can: The best way to start your career in reenacting out right is to read extensively. Most reenactors join the infantry, which is followed in popularity by the artillery, then the cavalry and there are a few naval interpreters. Reenacting events come in varying categories. These events were often staged with paying spectators in mind, leading to sights that irritated reenactors such as rushing the enemy in a chargebut with multi-tiered bleachers behind the enemy. 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. or C.S.A. They will take on the persona of one who is living through the period and will not speak in modern language. Events Could Include: Reenactments, Living Histories, Round Tables, Battlewalks, Shows, Lectures & More. A few options to consider. Reenacting units are organized in companies and regiments by reenactors from the same geographic area, much as Civil War companies and regiments were organized. For official duties, these youngstersoften between 10 and 14were called on to fill supporting roles such as drummers, buglers, messengers, and field assistants. 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. C.S. There is nothing inherently better or worse about any of these clusters they are each different ways of experiencing the hobby and it is important that you pick the one that most closely matches what interests you. 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. 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. (2020, August 26). Buy at a reenactment or with the help of an experience unit member. 2) Consider What You Want Out of Reenacting: Spend some time thinking about what aspects of reenacting interest you. Muster A gathering, especially of troops, for service, inspection, review or roll call. Two TV mini-series, Blue & Gray (1982), and North & South (1985) drove interest in reenacting in the early 1980s. 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. 2nd Rhode Island Regiment. How to join a unit, where and how to k. There is no age requirement for being a Civil War reenactor, but, of course, minors will need to have their parents approval and support. "How to Volunteer in Historical Reenactments" These events help reenactors immerse themselves in the reenacting experience, gaining first-hand knowledge of war, battle strategy, and the hardships of combat. Need a reference? Before showtime, pots and pans are some of the tools reenactor Tanya Haessly makes the most use of as a camp cook, feeding families and individuals taking part in a Civil War reenactment in Janney . In other words, you can try it out and see how you like it. 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. A Civil War Reenactment is the recreation of past battles for the education and entertainment of both spectators and hobbyists alike. We've got you covered with our map collection. Instead they staged brigade-sized snowball fights. Most people choose a reenactment group that operates fairly close to home - at least within a day's drive. Our principal reason for existence is to promote an authentic portrayal of Civil War history to the . Reenacting is at a cross-roads. If the unit is a horse-drawn battery, the reenactors are expected to help groom, water, and feed the horses. Confederate States or Confederate States Army. This practice of changing uniforms to fit the reenactments needs is called galvanizing based on a real term applied to captured Confederates who were released from prison camps if they joined the Union army to go west to fight Indians. Keep attending reenactments until you find a period that suits your specific interests and talents. Reenactors who claim: My ancestors would roll over in their graves if I portrayed the other side are frowned upon. The dues are an important aspect of keeping reenactment groups operating. A love of history of all time periods is common though reenactors focus on the 19th century. You'll also have to brush up on the language and customs specific to the era. Be prepared to be footsore! 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. 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. 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. It is common to find Black reenactors sprinkled in the Confederate ranks. "Become a Member." Before you start investing cash in reenacting, attend enough events to ensure that its a hobby that you truly enjoy and want to purse. R. Lee Hadden. Modern day work boots are not acceptable. Living histories take place at the actual battlefield by invitation from the National Park Service. Brush up on your geography and finally learn what countries are in Eastern Europe with our maps. These characteristics can be challenging to identify by examining a units website or Facebook page or by chatting with the members at an event. 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. The largest event was the 135th Gettysburg reenactment which involved 15,000 reenactors. 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. 3 rd Florida Volunteer Infantry, Co. While the majority of soldiers were in the 1840 age range, in many enlistment cases birth years were overlooked, or were fabricated. Women have to make the effort to disguise themselves as men. They carried Sharps rifles. Here are the facts and trivia that people are buzzing about. 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.. Mountains might be climbed. I, Eighth Regiment Connecticut Volunteers, Company A, Incorporated, 11th Regiment Connecticut Volunteer Infantry, Company G, Fourteenth Regiment Connecticut, Van Dyke's Howitizers 1st Florida Artillery. The 49th Indiana, Company F is Indiana's oldest and largest nonprofit organization devoted to portraying life during the American Civil War. Perhaps you have a friend in the hobby who has encouraged you to give it a try. Check with your reenacting unit before buying any gun. Learn more about the world with our collection of regional and country maps. Family Friendly Units - If reenacting is to become your next family adventure, you're going to have to find a family friendly unit. With sound recordings, new generations could hear the Rebel yellyelped by 95-year-old men who still had the spunk to give it. In particular, take notice of the grisly conditions a reenactor has to deal with -- especially in battle reenactments. 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. If you crave intrigue and a dash of melodrama, historical fiction can make the past come alive. Little children have no business on the field because they can become separated from parents. "Dream Job: Historical Reenactor." Most reenacting units require members to own dual impressions; both Union and Confederate. 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. 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. 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.

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