That will mean pushing long hair under a hat, taking off ear rings, and doing their best to hide the evidence of being female. They will speak as though the War Between the States is current. American Civil War Reenactment Groups Historical reenactment groups and living history groups offer an insight into how men and women lived in past times. Although most common in the United States, there are also American Civil War reenactors in Canada, the United Kingdom,. Check out our article How to Join a Reenactment Group. Some states require even single shot, reproduction muskets to be registered with the government. There's nothing volunteering in a historical reenactment to experience the sights, sounds and smells of history. 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. Historical reenacting gives you that chance. 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 unit, where and how to k. Unit Type - Not all organizations are the same. 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. It is where the Civil War soldier carried his food and where the reenactor will carry his food, wallet and car keys. Cavalry and artillery reenactors have the added burden of worrying about their horses and mules stepping into holes on the field. Reenactors need a shirt, coat, pants, wool socks, and a hat. 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. 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. Reenactors living near each other form around a company that comes from that same geographic area. Learn about one of the world's oldest and most popular religions. We come from in and around Shelby County. 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. Some larger units will have majors, lieutenant colonels and colonels. 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. 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. 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. Arkansas Infantry Reenactors. Too far back and the soldier in the front rank is too close to the muzzle blast. 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. And many battle reenactment societies require that you acquaint yourself thoroughly with the manual of arms. Leather cartridge box, belt, bayonet scabbard and cap box come in a variety of types and colors such as russet brown, but most men choose black so the same accoutrements can be used for both Confederate and Union impressions. The hobby of Civil War reenacting continues to attract participants and spectators who care about Civil War history and the 19th century people who lived it. If you are having any kind of encampment and want it in a certain order, let them know ahead of time. Also: Post Your Event Photos, Reviews, & Wrap-Ups. 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. How do I join a unit as a reenactor? 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. 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. For further reading suggestions and links to many of these online resources, please see the Stonewall Brigades Recommended Reading list. How did my ancestors survive battles, diseases, and prison camps on far away battlefields then return home to produce me? The totally geared up reenactor will invest around $2 500 to $3 000 however that equipment with the exception of brogans will last as long as the reenactor will. and then went into battle to save Lees army, but until one has marched that same route, it is all theory. A Civil War Reenactment will have various units such as artillery, cavalry, or infantry units. Tacticals are unscripted battles which are usually not open to the public. For instance, the Stonewall Brigades list is located here. 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. Perhaps you have a friend in the hobby who has encouraged you to give it a try. We had a weekend with perfect weather and many exciting and educational activities. Their website is: http://www.citizenscompanion.com/. Few units allow people in 21st century garb to camp in the military camp as it detracts from the reenactment atmosphere. Perhaps you have a friend in the hobby who has encouraged you to give it a try. Reenactments are only fun if there are enough enemies on the other side. What's more, you could get hurt. Most reenactors collect their kit over a period of time, borrowing from generous fellow soldiers until they are fully outfitted. Reenacting remained a small hobby during the mid-1970s when events numbering several hundred reenactors were common. Living Histories at original battlefields are by invitation by the National Park Service or the states that also maintain battlefields. The Author (far right in a Derby) with Shelby Foote at a Reenactment in the Early 1990s, Photograph provided by: Color Sergeant Clint Johnson 26th Regiment of North Carolina Troops, Shelby Foote, a historian who spent more than 20 years writing a three-volume history of The Civil War, was surrounded by several reenactors outside of a university where he was speaking. There are alternative ways to get your history education. One place to find equipment for sale is at the reenactment events. For instance, the 26th Regiment of North Carolina Troops also portrays the 24th Michigan of The Iron Brigade when it reenacts as Federals. 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. If looking to dive into Vietnam reenacting, the number one piece of advice is to speak to a unit before making purchases. Finally, there is the largest investment of all, the musket and bayonet. 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 N word season pass premium + membership is in full effect for the day. 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. Speculation among reenactors is that smaller, focused events is where the hobby is headed. The basic costs of outfitting an infantryman will run between $1,500 and $2,000 with the bulk of the cost being in the $800 musket. Mainstream is exactly what it sounds like, reenactors ranging in age from teenagers to well-beyond middle age who like the hobby, but who also do not fit the Civil War image of soldiers being thin and between the ages of 18-25. Finding an organization for a child to partake in is not difficult. Get a feel for the atmosphere and conditions of a living history event before you rush to buy vintage style military uniforms & equipment. Unit Dues - Unit dues are typically the cheapest of all expenses. Authentic Campaigner is a blog dedicated to events, impressions, goods, etc. By joining such a society, you'll have time to try out your persona before committing to any major purchases for your own kit. (May 8, 2009) http://www.salary.com/personal/layoutscripts/psnl_articles.asp?tab=psn&cat=cat011&ser=ser032, Miller, John. That means single reenactors in a specialty uniform must search out similar reenactors to fall in with at events. Did you have ancestors who participated in a particular war? 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. Many units have loaner gear or special requirements. Brogans are broad-soled half boots with leather soles worn by the common foot soldier. Most people take their roles seriously and pride themselves on representing history as accurately as possible. In 2014 the name was changed to North Florida Artillery Historical Foundation, Inc. was established as a non profit/IRS organization. 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. Cavalry reenactors have uniforms that are patterned after original cavalry uniforms. 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. The further that is away from the face, the better. Families wishing to stay together all weekend can portray civilians. Learn how your comment data is processed. Need a reference? 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. There is at least one Civil War era brass band using period instruments and playing period music. Subscribe to our newsletter * indicates required. 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. Be sure to look into this. Living History Archive. Scouring the sutlers' goods may also set you up for an impulse buy that your historic persona doesn't really need. The derogatory term for this same person is stitch nazi.. 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]. They like to bring tents, camp chairs, hidden ice chests, and other gear that the original army would never have had. Hard-core reenactors give up all amenities of modern life, from deodorant to modern wristwatches. By now you are probably wondering, "how much is all of this going to cost me? During the Civil War Native Americans, Blacks, Asians, and Hispanics fought on both sides. At some late-war battles such as Bentonville, North Carolina and Saylers Creek, Virginia, Federal units armed with repeating rifles chewed into Confederate ranks. "Dream Job: Historical Reenactor." Typical costs for reenacting might include the following. All races and ethnicities can reenact. Living like a person in 1863, even if only for a few hours or a few days, would surely sharpen your skills as a historian, actor, and citizen. And finally, muskets are real guns. As a spectator, you have a great opportunity to get a preview of what volunteering is like. WW1 Reenactment Groups. https://www.thoughtco.com/getting-started-with-reenacting-1422852 (accessed March 5, 2023). https://28thmass.orgLately I've noticed quite a few of you showing more interest in Civil War reenacting specifically. 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. She teaches at the Genealogical Institute of Pittsburgh and the Salt Lake Institute of Genealogy. 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. 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. While headquartered in Richmond, Virginia, our membership encompasses Maryland, North Carolina and Pennsylvania. A plastic mug would be farby as would a polyester uniform since they didnt have polyester in 1861. While reenacting is fun, it is also a physically taxing hobby. The exhaustion felt at the end of that reenacting march brings home the realization that the soldiers of the Civil War were tough. The only difference between the Civil War and the reenacting firing is that no Mini ball is rammed down the barrel. Children were active participants in the Civil War. 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. Beginners should start by attending Civil War Reenactments and observing what goes on. Do not buy from sutlers on-line then select which unit you want to join. The dues are an important aspect of keeping reenactment groups operating. 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. 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. The important thing to remember is the child still needs adult supervision. That model Springfield was not developed until 1869. 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. Battle reenactments are scripted recreations of actual Civil War engagements, which spectators pay to come and watch. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. 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. 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. R. Lee Hadden. Reenactment, appropriately called "living history," also means living under the same conditions encountered during the past. But if you want to portray a German soldier from World War II, the uniforms are pricier -- typically $300 to $400 [source: Miller]. The USCTs fought as all Black units commanded by white officers. An Authentic Civil War Living History Association, Top Five Tips for Getting Started in Civil War Reenacting. Check ourencyclopedia for a gloss on thousands of topics from biographies to the table of elements. One note for reenactors living in states with strict gun laws. 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. Reenactors enjoy camping, cooking over an open fire, guns, loud noises, marching, military discipline, and telling stories. By the time Ken Burns PBS special The Civil War debuted in 1990 interest in the War was on an upswing. olg pick 4 The 150th Manassas, Virginia event was held when the temperature on the field was 114 degrees. They will take on the persona of one who is living through the period and will not speak in modern language. A reenactor is a special breed of person. Young Civil War Reenactor (photo by D. Farr). During fights with frequent firing, muskets have been known to cook off, a pre-mature explosion of the black powder poured down the barrel caused by a still-burning spark. Most reenacting units have both a website and a Facebook page, making it easier for people to find local units. 3 rd Florida Volunteer Infantry, Co. Once youre sure that the discomfort (sleeping on cots or bedrolls, wearing uncomfortable clothes, and generally avoiding anything farby) is worth it, then find a unit to join. 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 ]. 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. That part of history cannot be changed. How does a starving man march 20 miles then go into a three-hour battle? [1]. Can one really hear a Civil War era term the rattle of musketry? Figure the cost of your accessories into your budget, too. 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. 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. Being a Civil War reenactor is about stepping back in time to create believable characterpersonaor what reenactors call an impression. 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. Don't let that stop you! Invitation events are smaller with limited numbers of participants making them easier to manage. Choose a Persona The physically disabled cannot take the field as soldiers, but the impression of a wounded soldier in a period wheel chair being pushed by a civilian in period clothes is welcome. 2) Consider What You Want Out of Reenacting: Spend some time thinking about what aspects of reenacting interest you. Join us for a captivating reenactment of a Civil War skirmish, brought to life in stunning detail! And that's not including weaponry: An M1 Garand will put you out $700 to $900, while other period guns cost less than $100. That could be in California, Wisconsin, or even Russia. Both sides tolerate them. Civilian A person, male or female, who reenacts any non-military impression during Reenactments. 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. 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. It might be a good idea to spring for the unit's annual fee for insurance coverage in case of an injury. 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) 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. Not only does it reinforce our sense of pride in our heritage, but its something in which the entire family can participate. 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. Copyright 2023 All Rights Reserved by Milsurpia. If you can find material written by men from the unit you portray, even better. If the unit is dedicated to historical accuracy, the accommodations will be meager. Company B, the reenacting group, is dedicated to preserving the legacy of the 54th Massachusetts Volunteer . 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. Be prepared to be footsore! Reenactors refer to their clothing and equipment as theirkit. Please copy/paste the following text to properly cite this HowStuffWorks.com article: Jane McGrath People come to Civil War reenacting in a myriad of ways. 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 will need to visit a sutlery (supply store run by a civilian, a "sutler"), either online or in person, in order to get your basic gear, called a "kit". Reenactors take their jobs very seriously. When looking through our list of reenactment groups, be sure to really think about what is important to you. Period clothing and accessories can be very expensive -- depending on the period and figure you're portraying. 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 .