clear this with both units and dont just show up expecting to be ok. Take your hits (deaths) If you wish to fight in a different unit that a family member fought in during the civil war. Choose a Persona Arch supports were not invented in the 1860s, but feel free to put anything inside that helps you march. Which branch reenactors join is up to their interest in each branchand their financial resources. While the uniforms are generallywelluniform, hats (at least for Confederate portrayals) can be a matter of personal choice. Don't let that stop you! There is at least one Civil War era brass band using period instruments and playing period music. Living History Archive. 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. 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. Marches can range from a mile or so from camp to the battlefield to more than 20 miles at special events. 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. Confederate Zouaves called Louisiana Tigers wear striped baggy pants. 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. 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. If the unit is a horse-drawn battery, the reenactors are expected to help groom, water, and feed the horses. How do I join a unit as a reenactor? Most people take their roles seriously and pride themselves on representing history as accurately as possible. While the vast majority of reenactors are standard uniformed Confederate and Union soldiers, there are some small numbers who wear unique uniforms. They should also have a list of recommended vendors that sell uniforms and equipment that meet their units standards. Becoming a historical re-enactor requires an unquenchable thirst for history and abiding patience with uncomfortable accommodations and ridiculous outfits. 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. Unit Dues - Unit dues are typically the cheapest of all expenses. 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. Most people choose a reenactment group that operates fairly close to home - at least within a day's drive. Wearing historically accurate clothing is essential to your impression and attention to details is important, i.e. That model Springfield was not developed until 1869. The N word season pass premium + membership is in full effect for the day. Most reenactors collect their kit over a period of time, borrowing from generous fellow soldiers until they are fully outfitted. Mainstreamers cheerfully accept the nickname TBG- which stands for Tubby Bearded Guys. ThoughtCo, Aug. 26, 2020, thoughtco.com/getting-started-with-reenacting-1422852. An Authentic Civil War Living History Association, Top Five Tips for Getting Started in Civil War Reenacting. Event Dues - This can really depend on the event and what is provided with the fee. Reenactments vary greatly in size, with events in New England typically showcasing 100500 infantry, while the 150th anniversary of Gettysburg in 2013 is expected to field more than 15,000 reenactors, plus thousands of civilian interpreters, 400 horses, and 100 cannon. If you have an interest in our American History during the period of 1861-1865, we invite you to join our ranks. 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. Reenacting does require a commitment, however, in both time and resources. *This post may contain affiliate links. Reenactment also takes time, but this can be as little as a 2-3 hour event once or twice a year, to a half-dozen three-day weekend encampments. The dues are an important aspect of keeping reenactment groups operating. For reenactments that span several days, this can be grueling. Cavalry and artillery reenactors have the added burden of worrying about their horses and mules stepping into holes on the field. 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. 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. 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. While reenactors do like authenticity, they draw the line at paying upwards of $30 for registration fees, but finding over-flowing port-a-johns by Sunday morning. American Civil War Reenactment Groups Historical reenactment groups and living history groups offer an insight into how men and women lived in past times. 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. 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. A canteen holding about two quarts of water is critical. Whoever is physically able can take to the battlefield with certain age restrictions. (2020, August 26). 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. 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 . The most stare-inducing women reenactors are those ladies portraying Catholic nuns who served as nurses during the war. Some civilian reenactors may choose to portray professions such as mortician or battlefield surgeon with some women roaming the field as nurses. 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. 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. Check your local newspaper or search the Internet to find a reenactment near you. Only a handful of men will make generals and they must know how to command at that level. They'll have fun watching the excitement, and you'll get to teach them about history. For those men who need vision correction and who do not wear contact lens, there are sutlers who deal in eye glasses which are correct for the period. Is there a list or quartermaster who do I need to contact to get involved as a reenactor for the civil war. Youre obviously interested in the Civil War, otherwise you wont be considering reenacting. Mega-events, reenactments where reenactors number several thousand, are likely gone forever now that the 150th anniversary events ended in 2015. By joining such a society, you'll have time to try out your persona before committing to any major purchases for your own kit. Photos from the time period show some men marching in ranks with M-1 Garands, World War II semi-automatic rifles. As a Civil War reenactor you will become a soldier, or a civilian, wearing authentic 1860s period clothing and learning to live as . 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. The Event Wire - Information. Do you have a passion for Ancient Rome, medieval fashion, or Colonial America, and the Salem Witch Trials? For further reading suggestions and links to many of these online resources, please see the Stonewall Brigades Recommended Reading list. Powell, Kimberly. 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. To volunteer in historical reenactments, you'll be dedicating your time, sacrificing your modern comforts and paying a pretty penny. Check ourencyclopedia for a gloss on thousands of topics from biographies to the table of elements. A reenactor is a special breed of person. By now you are probably wondering, "how much is all of this going to cost me? Now that the sesquicentennial is over, the future of reenacting is being debated. The stitch counters can belong in either the mainstream or the campaigner camp. Most units require members to be at least 16 years old before they can fall into ranks with a musket because of the maturity necessary to handle a firearm. Germany . It was I who asked historian Shelby Foote some 20 years ago: Is there anything about The War you dont know? I got the quick answer: I still dont know how they did it.. All races and ethnicities can reenact. American Civil War Society. Hundreds of . Both sides tolerate them. 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. During the Civil War Native Americans, Blacks, Asians, and Hispanics fought on both sides. The only difference between the Civil War and the reenacting firing is that no Mini ball is rammed down the barrel. 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. While it is rare, people have died from the exertion. 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. Reenactors carry everything with them with no resupply from a vehicle, speak in first person and essentially lose themselves entirely in the war for the weekend. 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. Then, the reenactors, tourist bureaus, and entrepreneurs realized that starting in 1991 they could stage larger-than-usual events at five-year intervals starting with the 130th anniversary of the start of the War. In 2014 the name was changed to North Florida Artillery Historical Foundation, Inc. was established as a non profit/IRS organization. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. 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. Reenactment, appropriately called "living history," also means living under the same conditions encountered during the past. And, if one wants, one can carry original muskets if they are safe. Reenactors sacrifice immense amounts of time, effort, and money to recreate history. Unit Type - Not all organizations are the same. Our principal reason for existence is to promote an authentic portrayal of Civil War history to the . Are you really excited about being a part of large battle reenactments? Learn more about the mythic conflict between the Argives and the Trojans. Cavalry reenactors have uniforms that are patterned after original cavalry uniforms. I show up. The United States Marines wear distinctive crossed white belts. Some larger units will have majors, lieutenant colonels and colonels. What did the Gettysburg artillery barrage sound like? 7th Florida Infantry Regiment, Company F. 21st Georgia Volunteer Infantry Civil War Reenactment Unit, 24th Georgia vols Company B civil War reenacting group, Company A, 2nd Battalion Georgia Sharpshooters, 104th Illinois Volunteer Infantry Company H, First Maryland Volunteer Infantry Regiment, 28th Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry Company B, 4th Texas Co. E / 16th Michigan Co. B Civil War Reenactors, Reynolds' Battery L 1st New York Light Artillery, 75th Ohio Volunteer Infantry Regiment, Company A, Company "C" 2nd Regiment Berdan Sharpshooters. Infoplease is part of the Sandbox Learning family of educational and reference sites for parents, teachers and students. If the unit is dedicated to historical accuracy, the accommodations will be meager. 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. 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. 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. Check your laws! One asked the obvious question to a man who had written more than 3,000 pages seemingly covering every aspect of a war that stretched from New Mexico to New York: Is there anything about the War that you dont know?, Footes response was immediate: I still dont know how they did it. The ones below have been in business for years and may be considered the mainstays of the hobby. Reenactors accept discomfort, port-a-johns, close quarters, and the aches that come with carrying gear that weighs 20 pounds or more. There are a wide variety of canteens including wooden ones that Confederate soldiers carried, but which would not be appropriate for Union soldiers. All races and ethnicities can reenact. Most reenactment groups have extra clothing, uniforms,costumes, and props that they are willing to loan to newcomers. Here you can find a list of groups that portray the American Civil War period. Civilian reenactors are the least expensive impressions to achieve, and have the most flexibility since the clothes chosen can range from elegant to simple. When you're starting out as a volunteer, the unit you're working with will probably have a spare uniform you can borrow. 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. 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. Confederate States or Confederate States Army. 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. When looking through our list of reenactment groups, be sure to really think about what is important to you. To submit a reenactment group for consideration, please contact us here. Also welcome are Black reenactors portraying slaves or free blacks, teamsters, horse handlers, or other roles common to the period. 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 reenactment Web sites for listings of upcoming reenactment events in your area. Your email address will not be published. Reenacting units are organized in some of the same ways as Civil War companies and regiments. Learn about one of the world's oldest and most popular religions. Local video entrepreneurs filmed those 125th anniversary reenactments on VHS tapes, selling them to the reenactors who hoped to see themselves acting as Civil War soldiers. Still, the best plan for new reenactors is to join a unit and ask for help from the old hands in selecting uniforms and equipment. How the Civilian Conservation Corps Worked, Historical Reenactment Costumes and Equipment, 2nd Rhode Island Regiment. 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. The 125th anniversary of the start of the war in 1986 saw reenacting turn into a serious hobby. Horses, though trained to expect loud noises from cannons, rifles, pistols and clanging sabers, sometimes throw their riders to the ground. Perhaps you have a friend in the hobby who has encouraged you to give it a try. Berdans Sharpshooters were a Federal unit of sharpshooters who wore dark green uniforms as an early form of camouflage. While doing their impression many will do a first-person impression. California. In addition to having to wear hot, uncomfortable clothing, participants can forget about sleeping in comfortable beds, eating decent food and taking hot showers. This can mean everything from uncomfortable clothes and terrible food to inclement weather and a poor excuse for a bed. Their website is: www.CivilWarNews.com, Camp Chase Gazette is a how-to magazine for authentic reenactors. or C.S.A. 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. As a spectator, you have a great opportunity to get a preview of what volunteering is like. 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. 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). Gear - How much a reenactor spends on their gear is a product of individual means, love for the hobby, and type of unit. (May 8, 2009) http://www.salary.com/personal/layoutscripts/psnl_articles.asp?tab=psn&cat=cat011&ser=ser032, Miller, John. This is especially important when it comes to clothing and weaponry, as we'll see on the next page. Merchants known as sutlers set up on-site to sell clothing, accessories and weapons. 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. And finally, muskets are real guns. While reenacting is fun, it is also a physically taxing hobby. Mechanicsburg, PA: Stackpole Books, 1999. 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. R. Lee Hadden. Powell, Kimberly. 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. Odds are that youve already read a decent amount about the war, but most Civil War books focus on the movements of vast armies and the leaders who directed them. Of course, you might decide that Civil War reenactments aren't your cup of tea, and you'd prefer to dabble in the Colonial era. Reenactors who claim: My ancestors would roll over in their graves if I portrayed the other side are frowned upon. Otherwise, the 60 grains of powder and a piece of paper wadding for each charge is authentic. Don't be overwhelmed! 3 rd Florida Volunteer Infantry, Co. 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. You must have a passion for history and an active imagination. - "A Union Civil War Living History and Reenacting organization located in the greater Connecticut area. 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. The easiest way for children to get involved in reenacting is to do it as a family. Reenactment groups and societies can be found all over the world, although they are especially active in the U.S., UK, Germany, Sweden, Canada, and Australia. We'll assume you're ok with this, but you can opt-out if you wish. BOOK TIP: "The Illustrated Battle Cry of Freedom: The Civil War Era". If you can find material written by men from the unit you portray, even better. 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. Not sure about the geography of the middle east? They, in turn, showed the VHS tapes to younger historians, who learned that the soldiers on screen were not actors, but young men acting out their historical fantasies. 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. While headquartered in Richmond, Virginia, our membership encompasses Maryland, North Carolina and Pennsylvania. Your mentor can also assist you in finding used gear either from unit members or outside resources like eBay or Facebook. "Dream Job: Historical Reenactor." 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. Hard-core reenactors give up all amenities of modern life, from deodorant to modern wristwatches. Although most common in the United States, there are also American Civil War reenactors in Canada, the United Kingdom,. We are a Civil War reenactment group based in Murfreesboro, Tennessee that portrays the 9th Kentucky Volunteer Infantry (US). Be prepared to be footsore! 2) Consider What You Want Out of Reenacting: Spend some time thinking about what aspects of reenacting interest you. 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. There are Federal Zouave units who wear bright red pants, red trimmed jackets, and turbans. 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. "How to Become a Re-Enactor." Mountains might be climbed. "How to Get Started With Historical Reenacting." Subscribe to our newsletter * indicates required. How does a starving man march 20 miles then go into a three-hour battle? [1]. "How to Volunteer in Historical Reenactments" A plastic mug would be farby as would a polyester uniform since they didnt have polyester in 1861. 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 ]. There's nothing volunteering in a historical reenactment to experience the sights, sounds and smells of history. As you become more engaged with the unit, it's time to think about acquiring your own reenactment kit so that new recruits can use the spares while they test the waters. One place to find equipment for sale is at the reenactment events. In addition to special uniforms, some reenactors will be tempted to get special firearms. Learn how your comment data is processed. Each reenactment is a unique experience that allows participants to see through the eyes of a historical person and undergo all the hardships that go along with the times -- short of actually being killed in battle or catching typhoid. 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. Historical reenacting gives you that chance. Copyright 2023 All Rights Reserved by Milsurpia. If you've gotten this far then hopefully you've put some thought into this endeavor. A Civil War Reenactment will have various units such as artillery, cavalry, or infantry units. 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. Children as young as 8 have been seen at many reenactments partaking in field music. Finding an organization for a child to partake in is not difficult. 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. For instance, the Stonewall Brigades list is located here. 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. Sutlers Merchants who followed troops during the Civil War. 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. Unit Dues - Unit dues are typically the cheapest of all expenses. Welcome to the home of the 52nd Tennessee Co. C. We are a group of living historians centered around the American Civil War. These can range anywhere from $5 a month to $25 a month. The North Florida Artillery was incorporated as a non-profit organization in the state of Florida in March 2007.
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