We strive for accurate historical depiction of our original unit." YouTube Video Creator "History Boy" Drummer, 8th Connecticut Volunteer Infantry Co. As you look at different reenacting units, you may see three terms in particular, which are commonly used to describe different segments of the reenacting spectrum. 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. 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. In addition to having to wear hot, uncomfortable clothing, participants can forget about sleeping in comfortable beds, eating decent food and taking hot showers. Just how much does it cost to be a Civil War reenactor? This video brings you to the historic battlefields of Aike. Most will sleep/camp at the reenactment event. Special Thanks For instance, the 26th Regiment of North Carolina Troops also portrays the 24th Michigan of The Iron Brigade when it reenacts as Federals. 2) Consider What You Want Out of Reenacting: Spend some time thinking about what aspects of reenacting interest you. The ones below have been in business for years and may be considered the mainstays of the hobby. Here you can find a list of groups that portray the American Civil War period. Immersion events are small reenactments where reenactors carry everything with them with no resupply from vehicles. It might be a good idea to spring for the unit's annual fee for insurance coverage in case of an injury. Living History Archive. 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. 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. Before you purchase a musket and show up to your first event, you may find the following tips useful. The problem with these specialty impressions is that they only operate as units. Reenacting gear includes the uniform, accoutrements, a musket, shoes, hat and more, all purchased from sutlers, merchants specializing in reproduction products for reenactors. We'll assume you're ok with this, but you can opt-out if you wish. These events help reenactors immerse themselves in the reenacting experience, gaining first-hand knowledge of war, battle strategy, and the hardships of combat. 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. Muskets are real guns and fire a full powder charge but no bullet. Attend a few such reenactment events and talk to members of the involved groups to learn more about their reenactment focus and activities. If the unit is dedicated to historical accuracy, the accommodations will be meager. A reenactor is a special breed of person. 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. 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. So, many die-hard history-lovers volunteer in historical reenactments for an action-packed and enlightening experience. 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. Any unit you contact should be extremely welcoming and do everything they can to have you join their ranks. Prospective reenactors should research units to judge how accepting they are of family participation. 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. - "A Union Civil War Living History and Reenacting organization located in the greater Connecticut area. Infoplease is a reference and learning site, combining the contents of an encyclopedia, a dictionary, an atlas and several almanacs loaded with facts. 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. 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. (2020, August 26). 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. 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 ]. How do I join a unit as a reenactor? 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. They are also made from a relatively standardized style, so they can be used across a wide variety of impressions should you ultimately decide to join another unit or develop a different impression. There are scores of sutlers who operate regionally and nationally. All races and ethnicities can reenact. When you're starting out as a volunteer, the unit you're working with will probably have a spare uniform you can borrow. For the sake of authenticity, women do not bear arms. Not sure about the geography of the middle east? 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. Reenactors adopt what they call impressions based on the type of person they want to portray. 2 nd Connecticut Volunteer Heavy Artillery Regiment, Co. Civil War reenacting group in Colorado, Wyoming, Texas, and New Hampshire. 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. Our editors update and regularly refine this enormous body of information to bring you reliable information. Or, Dad can stay in the military camp while Mom and the kids stay in a civilian camp. Reenacting units keep a list of approved sutlers that have proven to stock authentic and well-made goods. During the Civil War Native Americans, Blacks, Asians, and Hispanics fought on both sides. 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. 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. If looking to dive into Vietnam reenacting, the number one piece of advice is to speak to a unit before making purchases. Children were active participants in the Civil War. Members may portray either a military impression, or one of many civilian roles which are appropriate to the Civil War period. Many reenactors are completely outfitted with clothing, packs, gear, and vehicles their typical persona would carry. Here you can find a list of groups that portray the Great War period. A love of history of all time periods is common though reenactors focus on the 19th century. To take part in high quality reenactments a reenactor should expect to drive at least a day for quality events. Event Dues - This can really depend on the event and what is provided with the fee. There are Federal Zouave units who wear bright red pants, red trimmed jackets, and turbans. We come from in and around Shelby County. 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! Scouring the sutlers' goods may also set you up for an impulse buy that your historic persona doesn't really need. How to join a reenactment group is not the hardest part of this journey, it's just the beginning. 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. 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. Aside from physical distance, a reenactor needs to take into consideration a few factors. AUTHENTIC Civil War Flag General W.F. 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. "I decided to join the Civil War reenacting group that helped to make the movie." . A musket will shoot a flame of fire and unburned powder out the muzzle. While these stories may transport you to Elizabethan England or ancient Rome, they're still fiction, after all, and don't always provide authentic history lessons. Hundreds of . Reenacting. Most reenactors join the infantry, which is followed in popularity by the artillery, then the cavalry and there are a few naval interpreters. What did the Gettysburg artillery barrage sound like? Civil War reenactors attempt to answer Footes rhetorical question by putting their 21st century selves into the roles of 19th century people. The persona you select should have some personal significance to you. 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. In particular, take notice of the grisly conditions a reenactor has to deal with -- especially in battle reenactments. 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. Following are some useful terms to acquaint you with Civil War Reenacting. 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. Youre obviously interested in the Civil War, otherwise you wont be considering reenacting. And finally, muskets are real guns. Just about anyone with an interest in reenactment can become a reenactor. olg pick 4 . or C.S.A. Are you looking for a highly immersive experience that puts you right in the shoes of a Civil War soldier? Reenactors who claim: My ancestors would roll over in their graves if I portrayed the other side are frowned upon. 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. American Civil War Society. Women reenactors portraying soldiers are not uncommon, just as there were women in ranks during the Civil War. 4) Read As Much As You Can: The best way to start your career in reenacting out right is to read extensively. By Robert Arvay. Reenacting units are organized in some of the same ways as Civil War companies and regiments. Immersion events are small reenactments that attract campaigners. Men and boys threw on gray and blue pants and work shirts, grabbed whatever arms they could find, and marched out onto whatever fields were handy to recreate battles. When brigaded with other units, a reenactor general may command 200-300 men. These can range anywhere from $5 a month to $25 a month. Both sides tolerate them. 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 . Their website is: www.CivilWarNews.com, Camp Chase Gazette is a how-to magazine for authentic reenactors. There are a wide variety of canteens including wooden ones that Confederate soldiers carried, but which would not be appropriate for Union soldiers. "How to Get Started With Historical Reenacting." Are you looking for something you can do with your family? While those shows inspired then young, now-middle aged reenactors to study the war, the producers paid little attention to authenticity. As a Civil War reenactor you will become a soldier, or a civilian, wearing authentic 1860s period clothing and learning to live as . By the time Ken Burns PBS special The Civil War debuted in 1990 interest in the War was on an upswing. They are encouraged to buy their opposite impression as soon as they can afford the cost. This is especially important when it comes to clothing and weaponry, as we'll see on the next page. 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. Load more. Finding a reenactment unit has gone 21st century. Historical reenacting gives you that chance. Florida. 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. Welcome to the official website of the Georgia Division Reenactors Association! 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. Event Dues - This can really depend on the event and what is provided with the fee. 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. Don't let that stop you! 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. Only a handful of men will make generals and they must know how to command at that level. Unit Type - Not all organizations are the same. Three factors come into play, and the United States demonstrates all of them. 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. Civil War Reenactment is one of the fastest growing hobbies in the United States, and with good reason. Speculation among reenactors is that smaller, focused events is where the hobby is headed. 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. Check your local newspaper or search the Internet to find a reenactment near you. We've got you covered with our map collection. C.S. Berdans Sharpshooters were a Federal unit of sharpshooters who wore dark green uniforms as an early form of camouflage. They'll have fun watching the excitement, and you'll get to teach them about history. But if you're more interested in other wars or time periods, don't despair. While Confederate regulations called for a kepi, most men opted for a slouch hat, a broad-brimmed hat of varying styles. And, if one wants, one can carry original muskets if they are safe. At the reenactments of those battles, Federal reenactors with access to repeating rifles like the 1860 Henry or the Spencer rifle or carbine will brigade together to recreate those particular actions. John Miller, a veteran reenactor who specializes in the Civil War, warns prospective volunteers that the hobby can get dangerous [source: Miller]. Some people do take the "authenticity" to an extreme, but most groups welcome anyone with an interest. Whats not to like? How do war reenactments work? Still, American Civil War reenactments can take place wherever the hobbyists can find ground. 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. You'll have the Web at your fingertips to research an object's authenticity -- and to compare prices from multiple vendors. 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. 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. 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. Can one really hear a Civil War era term the rattle of musketry? We have members in four states Tennessee, Kentucky, Mississippi and Arkansas. Stan Honda . If you're portraying a poor farmer during the Revolutionary War, then don't purchase a fancy rifle that would have been out of his financial grasp. 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. 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. Many units have loaner gear or special requirements. Civil War News is a monthly newspaper that covers news about battlefield preservation, and reenacting. Most people choose a reenactment group that operates fairly close to home - at least within a day's drive. Our way to offer tribute to these great men of the Civil War is to study as much as possible . 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. Civil War Encampment & Reenactment 2021 August 5, 2021 | Education, Events and Programs, Historic Hanna's Town Thank you to everyone who joined us for the biannual Civil War Encampment and Reenactment! Confederate Zouaves called Louisiana Tigers wear striped baggy pants. Attend a few such reenactment events and talk to members of the involved groups to learn more about their reenactment focus and activities. 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). 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. Some units are thinking of staging parts of battles as authentically as possible, complete with the scaled down, but statistically correct numbers of casualties, and the maneuvers mentioned in survivor accounts. Then again in 1938, those same veterans returned. Learning an instrument is typically the easiest way for children to get involved. 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. Need a reference? 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. 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 enjoy camping, cooking over an open fire, guns, loud noises, marching, military discipline, and telling stories. Children as young as 8 have been seen at many reenactments partaking in field music. Infantry is the easiest branch to learn and to finance. Families wishing to stay together all weekend can portray civilians. When looking through our list of reenactment groups, be sure to really think about what is important to you. That is also the reason why most leather gear is black, the standard Union color. They will take on the persona of one who is living through the period and will not speak in modern language. 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. Don't buy a uniform or other equipment until you've joined a unit, which might have its own particular rules for attire. (May 8, 2009) http://www.2ri.org/become_a_member.htm, Bromer, Zachary. Invitation events are smaller with limited numbers of participants making them easier to manage. "How to Get Started With Historical Reenacting." Do not buy from sutlers on-line then select which unit you want to join. One note for reenactors living in states with strict gun laws. As they learn how to be a soldier, they take tests and advance through the non-commissioned ranks to corporals and sergeants. 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. Do your research before making any purchases to ensure that you get the most authentic bang for your buck. 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. Shopping online is a good alternative to making purchases at a reenactment. Most reenactment organizations also won't allow children under 16 to bear arms. Do you have a passion for Ancient Rome, medieval fashion, or Colonial America, and the Salem Witch Trials?
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