Typical costs for reenacting might include the following. To those who do not do it, reenacting may seem like an odd hobby; spending the weekend recreating a war that killed upwards of three quarters of a million people when the United States population was just 31 million. Although most common in the United States, there are also American Civil War reenactors in Canada, the United Kingdom, Germany, Australia, Italy, Denmark . People come to Civil War reenacting in a myriad of ways. By now you are probably wondering, "how much is all of this going to cost me? 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. 2) Consider What You Want Out of Reenacting: Spend some time thinking about what aspects of reenacting interest you. 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. New reenactors start as privates and promotion to non commissioned officer or officer status depends on passing tests and demonstrating an ability to command larger bodies of men in maneuvers on the field. 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. California. The website also lists a number of sutler websites. Farby is a Civil War Reenactment term for anything not typical of the period. Extreme Points of the United States (States & Territories), Federal issue forage cap (dark or indigo blue), State issue forage cap with McDowell visor (dark or indigo blue), Federal fatigue blouse ("sack coat," dark or indigo blue) with four brass buttons, Federal trousers, foot pattern (sky blue), Issue muslin shirt (or other period pattern), USM1855 cartridge box, .58 caliber, mid-war model (black leather), USM1855 bayonet scabbard (black leather, one-piece Springfield style), M1853 three-band .577 caliber Enfield rifle musket and bayonet, Musket sling for M1853 Enfield (untreated leather), Haversack, U.S. regulation wartime issue (black tarred canvas), USM1858 smooth side canteen (jean cloth or dark blue wool cover) with strap (leather preferred over cotton drill or linen). Horses, though trained to expect loud noises from cannons, rifles, pistols and clanging sabers, sometimes throw their riders to the ground. 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. 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. Do not buy from sutlers on-line then select which unit you want to join. While doing their impression many will do a first-person impression. Living histories take place at the actual battlefield by invitation from the National Park Service. 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. What's more, you could get hurt. 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. 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! The stitch counters can belong in either the mainstream or the campaigner camp. We had a weekend with perfect weather and many exciting and educational activities. Particularly welcomeand neededat reenactments are Black reenactors. Reenactors put themselves in the shoes of those from an earlier time where food was scarce, disease was rampant, and a good nights sleep might mean sleeping in the mud. Most units have a list of acceptable gear and approved sutlers. 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. 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. Reenactor A person, male or female, dedicated to recreating the War Between the States or Civil War. Women participate as nurses, vivandieres, cooks, laundresses, or wives and sisters visiting the soldier in camp. Some states require even single shot, reproduction muskets to be registered with the government. In exchange for staging drill and firing demonstrations for the visiting public, the reenactment units (usually those with a reputation for authenticity) are allowed to camp on the actual battlefields. The 49th Indiana Volunteer Infantry is Indiana's oldest, largest and best drilled civil war unit. The United States Marines wear distinctive crossed white belts. It was anticipation of the 125th anniversary events, starting in 1986, when reenacting turned into a serious hobby. 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. American Civil War Reenactment Groups. and then went into battle to save Lees army, but until one has marched that same route, it is all theory. 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 ]. 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. Which branch reenactors join is up to their interest in each branchand their financial resources. Once the leather gear, muskets, and bayonets are purchased, only the opposite sides coat and pants are a necessary purchase to correctly portray the other side. Reenacting is at a cross-roads. Each unit has a different function and will provide a much different experience. There are alternative ways to get your history education. Historical reenactment groups and living history groups offer an insight into how men and women lived in past times. By Robert Arvay. The further that is away from the face, the better. How to Get Started With Historical Reenacting. Unit Dues - Unit dues are typically the cheapest of all expenses. We've got you covered with our map collection. Powell, Kimberly. No one in the 21st century really knows what it was like in the 19th century, but one can develop an idea from reading about the time period and convert that idea into a reenacting reality. Once the basics are purchased, reenactors move on to acquire other gear like a canvas dog tent, or a larger A-frame tent, a gum or rubber blanket/poncho for putting down on the ground or wearing as rain gear, and cooking gear like tin frying pans and cooking grates. We are a Union regiment of the Southern Skirmish Association which aims to bring the history of the American Civil War to life with battles, drill displays, and a taste of 19th century camp life. 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. 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. 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.. While Confederate regulations called for a kepi, most men opted for a slouch hat, a broad-brimmed hat of varying styles. Most people choose a reenactment group that operates fairly close to home - at least within a day's drive. 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. Most people take their roles seriously and pride themselves on representing history as accurately as possible. But if you've got the mettle and undying enthusiasm for history, we'll walk you through the basics of how to get involved. Most reenacting units have both a website and a Facebook page, making it easier for people to find local units. Not sure about the geography of the middle east? Powell, Kimberly. 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. The reason is obvious. This video brings you to the historic battlefields of Aike. 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. 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. Finally, there is the largest investment of all, the musket and bayonet. or C.S.A. Civil War Reenactment Groups The American Civil War, fought between 1861 and 1865, continues to live on in the form of living history reenactments. 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. Also: Post Your Event Photos, Reviews, & Wrap-Ups. Home Research Top Five Tips for Getting Started in Civil War Reenacting. Load more. This Forum is for Posting Civil War Event Information. In historical reenactments, people from all walks of life gather together, dressed head-to-toe in period clothing. In particular, take notice of the grisly conditions a reenactor has to deal with -- especially in battle reenactments. Take your hits (deaths) If you wish to fight in a different unit that a family member fought in during the civil war. Post Advance Schedules Up to 1 Year in Advance. Following are some useful terms to acquaint you with Civil War Reenacting. Its educational and, finally, its a great way to escape the worries of today and pretend in the great outdoors. Read more. 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. 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. The 125th anniversary of the start of the war in 1986 saw reenacting turn into a serious hobby. Kimberly Powell is a professional genealogist and the author of The Everything Guide to Online Genealogy. Notify me of follow-up comments by email. There is no poll showing where reenactors live, but observation would put a majority of them in The South. I receive a small amount of compensation when you purchase from my links at no additional cost to you. 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. 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. A love of history of all time periods is common though reenactors focus on the 19th century. All races and ethnicities can reenact. Don't let that stop you! 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. 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. Larger regiments will combine those companies to form a state-wide organization. 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. 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. 4 June 2009. 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. Before you start investing cash in reenacting, attend enough events to ensure that its a hobby that you truly enjoy and want to purse. Children were active participants in the Civil War. For reenactments that span several days, this can be grueling. Don't be overwhelmed! Some of the young men who started reenacting decades ago when the 125th anniversary events attracted them are now passing through middle age. The United States Colored Troops, the freemen and runaway slaves who joined the Union army in numbers around 180,000, are a small, but highly appreciated branch of reenacting. 4) Read As Much As You Can: The best way to start your career in reenacting out right is to read extensively. The atmosphere is relaxed, allowing reenactors to recruit new members. 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. 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. 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. Brush up on your geography and finally learn what countries are in Eastern Europe with our maps. Here are the facts and trivia that people are buzzing about. You'll also have to brush up on the language and customs specific to the era. Join us for a captivating reenactment of a Civil War skirmish, brought to life in stunning detail! Reenacting. Invitation events are smaller events where organizers limit the number of participants in order to better manage the scale. The 125th Franklin, Tennessee event was held in minus 10 wind chill. Not only does it reinforce our sense of pride in our heritage, but its something in which the entire family can participate. Unit Dues - Unit dues are typically the cheapest of all expenses. So, many die-hard history-lovers volunteer in historical reenactments for an action-packed and enlightening experience. 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. https://28thmass.orgLately I've noticed quite a few of you showing more interest in Civil War reenacting specifically. Reenacting gear includes the uniform, accoutrements, a musket, shoes, hat and more, all purchased from sutlers, merchants specializing in reproduction products for reenactors. 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. I show up. Modern day work boots are not acceptable. C.S. https://www.thoughtco.com/getting-started-with-reenacting-1422852 (accessed March 5, 2023). By the time Ken Burns PBS special The Civil War debuted in 1990 interest in the War was on an upswing. Check out our article How to Join a Reenactment Group. But, there are legitimate roles for reenactors in their early teens to act as runners, or fifers or drummers if they are musically inclined to join units which have field musicians. We are active from Virginia to New England. Our way to offer tribute to these great men of the Civil War is to study as much as possible . Both sides tolerate them. Buy at a reenactment or with the help of an experience unit member. In summer, many men carry two. But if you want to portray a German soldier from World War II, the uniforms are pricier -- typically $300 to $400 [source: Miller]. 21st Virginia, F Company, inc., is a non-profit, tax-exempt 501 (c)3 , living history, educational and Civil War re-enactment organization. The North Florida Artillery was incorporated as a non-profit organization in the state of Florida in March 2007. 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. Once you do, it's time to create your own historical persona. 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. Typically, the age restriction for most events is 16 years old to carry a musket/rifle. Colorado Connecticut. The problem with these specialty impressions is that they only operate as units. (2020, August 26). Perhaps a particular company or regiment in the war had distinctive uniforms. 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. Few units allow people in 21st century garb to camp in the military camp as it detracts from the reenactment atmosphere. Many organizations, particularly Civil War, offer family friendly scenarios. Reenacting does require a commitment, however, in both time and resources. Reenactors refer to their clothing and equipment as theirkit. 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. 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. They like to bring tents, camp chairs, hidden ice chests, and other gear that the original army would never have had. Civilian - A person, male or female, who reenacts any non-military impression during Reenactments. Mechanicsburg, PA: Stackpole Books, 1999. American Civil War Society. Learning an instrument is typically the easiest way for children to get involved. There are scores of sutlers who operate regionally and nationally. Photos from the time period show some men marching in ranks with M-1 Garands, World War II semi-automatic rifles. The 26th North Carolina Troops and the 24th Michigan ran head-on into each other on the first day of Gettysburg in McPhersons Woods. As they learn how to be a soldier, they take tests and advance through the non-commissioned ranks to corporals and sergeants. All reenactors come into the unit as privates. A reenactor could choose that impression by joining a reenacting unit following those uniform guidelines. In FULL SLAVE garb. 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. In addition to having to wear hot, uncomfortable clothing, participants can forget about sleeping in comfortable beds, eating decent food and taking hot showers. If there were other units at the events you attended who seemed like a better fit for what youre looking for, consider contacting them about falling in at their next event. Check your laws! Just as in the Civil War armies, men who take on the rank must be able to perform at that rank. or C.S.A. If you can find material written by men from the unit you portray, even better. A canteen holding about two quarts of water is critical. AUTHENTIC Civil War Flag General W.F. 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. 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. Not all organizations allow family's along for the ride. 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. 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. Reenactors who claim: My ancestors would roll over in their graves if I portrayed the other side are frowned upon. 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! John Miller, a veteran reenactor who specializes in the Civil War, warns prospective volunteers that the hobby can get dangerous [source: Miller]. Reenacting units keep a list of approved sutlers that have proven to stock authentic and well-made goods. 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. 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. Encampments allow visitors to wander through a Civil War camp and observe soldiers training, resting, playing, and simply relaxingall without television, iPods, or computers! Do your research before making any purchases to ensure that you get the most authentic bang for your buck. 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 you wear eyeglasses, consider purchasing period frames high on your shopping list as well. 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. 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. 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. WELCOME TO THE 49TH INDIANA CO.F. Whats not to like? Civil War reenacting group in Colorado, Wyoming, Texas, and New Hampshire. Check your local newspaper or search the Internet to find a reenactment near you. (May 8, 2009) http://www.2ri.org/become_a_member.htm, Bromer, Zachary. 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. There are a wide variety of canteens including wooden ones that Confederate soldiers carried, but which would not be appropriate for Union soldiers. And finally, muskets are real guns. olg pick 4 The Texas Rifles are seeking men and women of valor to join us and thousands of other history-minded hobbyists to experience, first hand, one of the country's fastest-growing, most unique recreational activities. Thanks for reaching out John we just got in touch to provide you some additional information. For further reading suggestions and links to many of these online resources, please see the Stonewall Brigades Recommended Reading list. Immersion events are small reenactments that attract campaigners. "Become a Member." While the majority of soldiers were in the 1840 age range, in many enlistment cases birth years were overlooked, or were fabricated. How do your feet feel after marching 22 miles in a single day in thin-soled brogans? 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. Units of mainstreamers may number from 20 to 100. They will speak as though the War Between the States is current. 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. WW1 Reenactment Groups. 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. 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. 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. The age restriction on handling firearms does not prevent one from taking part in the hobby. Need a reference? "Dream Job: Historical Reenactor." Be prepared to be footsore! After all, every one of the reenactors at an event arrived in a 21st century vehicle of some kind. Active members, either military or . . 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. Muskets are real guns and fire a full powder charge but no bullet. - Confederate States or Confederate States Army. Reenacting units staged living histories to explain weapons and uniforms at venues like schools and public parks to recruit new hobbyists. This website uses cookies to improve your experience. For official duties, these youngstersoften between 10 and 14were called on to fill supporting roles such as drummers, buglers, messengers, and field assistants.