how to join a civil war reenactment group

Immersion events are small reenactments where reenactors carry everything with them with no resupply from vehicles. 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. While we are based in Middle Tennessee, we have active and semi-active members in many states from Florida to Arizona and Alabama to Iowa besides our core Tennessee and Kentucky group. They are designed to save you money, help you avoid some of the most common mistakes first time reenactors make, and give you the best chance at enjoying the hobby over the long-term. If you asked to galvanize (switch sides) for a battle or event, dont complain. Family Friendly Units - If reenacting is to become your next family adventure, you're going to have to find a family friendly unit. This can mean everything from uncomfortable clothes and terrible food to inclement weather and a poor excuse for a bed. Authentic Campaigner is a blog dedicated to events, impressions, goods, etc. This Forum is for Posting Civil War Event Information. 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. Before you purchase a musket and show up to your first event, you may find the following tips useful. When looking through our list of reenactment groups, be sure to really think about what is important to you. 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. "Become a Member." 4) Read As Much As You Can: The best way to start your career in reenacting out right is to read extensively. Photos from the time period show some men marching in ranks with M-1 Garands, World War II semi-automatic rifles. Perry's Headquarters Flag, Authentic, Original, Antique Civil War Cavalry Boots, 1840-Civil War Authentic Mechanic/ Wheel Cap Campaigner Repro by Mike Anderson, A RARE AUTHENTIC ORIGINAL EARLY CIVIL WAR CAVALRY UNIFORM, Authentic General US Grant Civil War Currier and Ives Lithograph Original Frame. To a CIVIL WAR reenactment. Civil War Reenactment is one of the fastest growing hobbies in the United States, and with good reason. Load more. Here you can find a list of groups that portray the Great War period. The youngest vet eran was 61 and the oldest was 112. These would be reproduction arms originally manufactured by Springfield and copied by the Confederates, or Enfield, which was an English import used by both sides. 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. Following are some useful terms to acquaint you with Civil War Reenacting. Reenactors recreate history by portraying the look, actions, and lives of a person from a particular time period of history. If youre interested in an immersive, authentic experience, joining a mainstream unit will be a poor fit. 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. 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. California. Reenactment Groups - Milsurpia 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. Most reenactment groups have extra clothing, uniforms,costumes, and props that they are willing to loan to newcomers. Used by permission of Kathleen Smith. For official duties, these youngstersoften between 10 and 14were called on to fill supporting roles such as drummers, buglers, messengers, and field assistants. Whoever is physically able can take to the battlefield with certain age restrictions. Active members, either military or . The state of Pennsylvania hosted thousands of former Union and Confederate soldiers during the weeklong event. The 26th North Carolina Troops and the 24th Michigan ran head-on into each other on the first day of Gettysburg in McPhersons Woods. Do not buy from sutlers on-line then select which unit you want to join. The future of reenacting rests on the shoulders of younger generations. Reenacting. Some people do take the "authenticity" to an extreme, but most groups welcome anyone with an interest. 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. Spectators wont see much action, but the reenactors will see only other reenactors and no more bleachers. Most will sleep/camp at the reenactment event. A few options to consider. This is especially important when it comes to clothing and weaponry, as we'll see on the next page. 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. That part of history cannot be changed. 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. Read our groups about historical places and reenactment events - Living How to join a reenactment group is not the hardest part of this journey, it's just the beginning. Hundreds of . What's more, you could get hurt. There are essentially three types of reenactors; mainstream, campaigners, and stitch counters. C.S. Join us for a captivating reenactment of a Civil War skirmish, brought to life in stunning detail! While family involvement may be the goal of some reenactors, others enjoy the freedom of being away from the family on the weekend. Living history events include encampments, parades, and school enrichment programs. *This post may contain affiliate links. 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. That is what reenacting is all about; trying to live for a weekend like a Civil War soldier or civilian to figure out how they did it. If looking to dive into Vietnam reenacting, the number one piece of advice is to speak to a unit before making purchases. Arkansas Infantry Reenactors. Learn more about the mythic conflict between the Argives and the Trojans. 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. What does it take to start a civil war? - American Thinker 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. 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. Cavalry and artillery reenactors have the added burden of worrying about their horses and mules stepping into holes on the field. 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. A Civil War Reenactment will have various units such as artillery, cavalry, or infantry units. If you wear eyeglasses, consider purchasing period frames high on your shopping list as well. 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. We strive for accurate historical depiction of our original unit." YouTube Video Creator "History Boy" Drummer, 8th Connecticut Volunteer Infantry Co. Aside from physical distance, a reenactor needs to take into consideration a few factors. Units of mainstreamers may number from 20 to 100. We've got you covered with our map collection. Most reenactors join the infantry, which is followed in popularity by the artillery, then the cavalry and there are a few naval interpreters. Their website is: www.CivilWarNews.com, Camp Chase Gazette is a how-to magazine for authentic reenactors. Reenacting - 9th Pennsylvania Reserves Help/Ideas for Organizing a Reenactment - American Civil War Forums Most reenacting units have both a website and a Facebook page, making it easier for people to find local units. https://28thmass.orgLately I've noticed quite a few of you showing more interest in Civil War reenacting specifically. Typically, the age restriction for most events is 16 years old to carry a musket/rifle. Reenactors adopt what they call impressions based on the type of person they want to portray. Horses, though trained to expect loud noises from cannons, rifles, pistols and clanging sabers, sometimes throw their riders to the ground. Mega-events made it hard to lose ones self in the moment when a narrator was giving blow-by-blow accounts of the battle over loud speakers. Many units have loaner gear or special requirements. Learn how your comment data is processed. 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'll assume you're ok with this, but you can opt-out if you wish. 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. At some late-war battles such as Bentonville, North Carolina and Saylers Creek, Virginia, Federal units armed with repeating rifles chewed into Confederate ranks. clear this with both units and dont just show up expecting to be ok. 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. Your email address will not be published. Perhaps you have a friend in the hobby who has encouraged you to give it a try. 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. In summer, many men carry two. 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. The ones below have been in business for years and may be considered the mainstays of the hobby. In addition to special uniforms, some reenactors will be tempted to get special firearms. These characteristics can be challenging to identify by examining a units website or Facebook page or by chatting with the members at an event. American Civil War Society. Welcome to the official website of the Georgia Division Reenactors Association! 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. Unit Type - Not all organizations are the same. Check your local newspaper or reenactment Web sites for listings of upcoming reenactment events in your area. Or, Dad can stay in the military camp while Mom and the kids stay in a civilian camp. The organization has grown to include dozens of civil war reenactors and their families. Threadcounter A reenactor who insists on a historically accurate impression, down to fabric and buttonholes having the same threadcount typical of the time. We have members in four states Tennessee, Kentucky, Mississippi and Arkansas. Civil War Re-enactment Group - North Florida Artillery Historical Sometimes, you'll be able to find authentic uniforms to wear to reenactments, especially for 20th-century wars. 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 . While reenacting is a hobby, it has some of the trappings of operating in an actual army. Top Five Tips for Getting Started in Civil War Reenacting Just how much does it cost to be a Civil War reenactor? Most reenactors are everyday people from all walks of life, with ages ranging from 16 to people in their sixties. In historical reenactments, people from all walks of life gather together, dressed head-to-toe in period clothing. Reenacting is at a cross-roads. While reenacting is fun, it is also a physically taxing hobby. The atmosphere is relaxed, allowing reenactors to recruit new members. 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. 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. Reenacting units keep a list of approved sutlers that have proven to stock authentic and well-made goods. 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. There's nothing volunteering in a historical reenactment to experience the sights, sounds and smells of history. Too far forward, and the percussion cap is exploding in his ear. The largest event was the 135th Gettysburg reenactment which involved 15,000 reenactors. Our principal reason for existence is to promote an authentic portrayal of Civil War history to the . Some units have fifers and drummers. While the vast majority of reenactors are standard uniformed Confederate and Union soldiers, there are some small numbers who wear unique uniforms. All races and ethnicities can reenact. 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. 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. Copyright 2023 All Rights Reserved by Milsurpia. For the sake of authenticity, women do not bear arms. Just as in the 1860s, some reenacting gear can be shoddy (a Civil War era word), so taking knowledgeable advice from other veteran reenactors in ones unit makes sure newcomers do not buy the wrong gear. Each unit also has a slightly different personality and quirks they might be laid back or intense, their members may all have similar backgrounds and have known each other all their lives or they may be more diverse, they may be highly social at events and the life of the party or they may be more reserved. If you crave intrigue and a dash of melodrama, historical fiction can make the past come alive. Get Started in Reenacting - ReenactmentHQ 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]. 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 ]. Whats not to like? Tacticals are unscripted battles which are usually not open to the public. John Miller, a veteran reenactor who specializes in the Civil War, warns prospective volunteers that the hobby can get dangerous [source: Miller]. 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. They are encouraged to buy their opposite impression as soon as they can afford the cost. 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 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). Reenactors wanting to get as close as possible to how the soldiers lived will use this resource. We are active from Virginia to New England. However, it is important that you find a unit that is a good match for you if you want to continue to enjoy reenacting over the long-haul. For reenactments that span several days, this can be grueling. Also welcome are Black reenactors portraying slaves or free blacks, teamsters, horse handlers, or other roles common to the period. While the uniforms are generallywelluniform, hats (at least for Confederate portrayals) can be a matter of personal choice. Infantry is the easiest branch to learn and to finance. Each unit has a different function and will provide a much different experience. 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. 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. 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. There are scores of sutlers who operate regionally and nationally. Few units allow people in 21st century garb to camp in the military camp as it detracts from the reenactment atmosphere. Civil War Reenacting makes an effort to list the websites of reenacting units, but, as might be expected, many units are not listed here. 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 exhaustion felt at the end of that reenacting march brings home the realization that the soldiers of the Civil War were tough. Since 1974, we have represented Indiana's civil war heritage in movies and documentaries, for newspapers and TV, and at schools, museums and reenactments across the US. Take your hits (deaths) If you wish to fight in a different unit that a family member fought in during the civil war. 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. 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. Scouring the sutlers' goods may also set you up for an impulse buy that your historic persona doesn't really need. We come from in and around Shelby County. Reenacting for many is a serious, but fun, event. It is common to find Black reenactors sprinkled in the Confederate ranks. Not all reenactment groups will offer the same experiences. Members may portray either a military impression, or one of many civilian roles which are appropriate to the Civil War period. Experience being part of bringing our nation's most turbulent and tragic era to life. 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. 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. Check with your reenacting unit before buying any gun. 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. The persona you select should have some personal significance to you. If the unit is a horse-drawn battery, the reenactors are expected to help groom, water, and feed the horses. Modern day work boots are not acceptable. 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. 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. 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. 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. Encampments allow visitors to wander through a Civil War camp and observe soldiers training, resting, playing, and simply relaxingall without television, iPods, or computers! 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. Most people choose a reenactment group that operates fairly close to home - at least within a day's drive. Perhaps you have a friend in the hobby who has encouraged you to give it a try. Our editors update and regularly refine this enormous body of information to bring you reliable information. Attend a few such reenactment events and talk to members of the involved groups to learn more about their reenactment focus and activities. 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. Learn more about the world with our collection of regional and country maps. 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. Living Histories at original battlefields are by invitation by the National Park Service or the states that also maintain battlefields. Sutlers Merchants who followed troops during the Civil War. There are alternative ways to get your history education. By Robert Arvay. The dues are an important aspect of keeping reenactment groups operating. Eric Tetreault/Connecticut Renaissance Faire. Mega-events, reenactments where reenactors number several thousand, are likely gone forever now that the 150th anniversary events ended in 2015. Reenactors have a variety of reasons for dressing up on the weekends then plunging into their interpretation of a war that killed, by recent estimates, 750,000 people. They are wondering if sleeping on the ground is as much fun as it was when they were young. 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. Hand to hand combat is heavily scripted, never engage on your own. 5) Purchase Slowly and Strategically: When you are ready to start purchasing gear, take your time and make your purchases strategic. Reenacting gear includes the uniform, accoutrements, a musket, shoes, hat and more, all purchased from sutlers, merchants specializing in reproduction products for reenactors. 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. And that's not including weaponry: An M1 Garand will put you out $700 to $900, while other period guns cost less than $100. 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. 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. 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 . They should also have a list of recommended vendors that sell uniforms and equipment that meet their units standards. Reproduction clothing can cost several hundred dollars, and reproduction period rifles as much as $1000. Then again in 1938, those same veterans returned. Once you invest time and money into historical volunteerism, you'll likely find great reward from all your efforts. In other words, you can try it out and see how you like it. 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 most famous reenactment of the 1960s was the July 1961 Battle of First Manassas or Bull Run, held on the Manassas National Battlefield. They carried Sharps rifles. 2 nd Connecticut Volunteer Heavy Artillery Regiment, Co. (May 8, 2009) http://www.salary.com/personal/layoutscripts/psnl_articles.asp?tab=psn&cat=cat011&ser=ser032, Miller, John. Reenacting Civil War battles began during the War when both sides staged mock battles when heavy snows kept the men in camp from going out and killing each other. Infoplease knows the value of having sources you can trust. Get a feel for the atmosphere and conditions of a living history event before you rush to buy vintage style military uniforms & equipment. Its educational and, finally, its a great way to escape the worries of today and pretend in the great outdoors. During the Civil War Native Americans, Blacks, Asians, and Hispanics fought on both sides. 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. Reenactors do not dwell on that terrible human cost. Typical costs for reenacting might include the following. All reenactors come into the unit as privates. When you're starting out as a volunteer, the unit you're working with will probably have a spare uniform you can borrow. 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.

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