People come to Civil War reenacting in a myriad of ways. Civil War Reenacting makes an effort to list the websites of reenacting units, but, as might be expected, many units are not listed here. Historical reenactors are known for being sticklers for accuracy. Keep attending reenactments until you find a period that suits your specific interests and talents. Little children have no business on the field because they can become separated from parents. It might be a good idea to spring for the unit's annual fee for insurance coverage in case of an injury. If you wear eyeglasses, consider purchasing period frames high on your shopping list as well. 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. "Dream Job: Historical Reenactor." The future of reenacting rests on the shoulders of younger generations. Subscribe to our newsletter * indicates required. Now i ma There is no poll showing where reenactors live, but observation would put a majority of them in The South. The 125th Franklin, Tennessee event was held in minus 10 wind chill. Our way to offer tribute to these great men of the Civil War is to study as much as possible . 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 is particularly valuable for its calendar of upcoming events, and book reviews. In FULL SLAVE garb. 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. Retrieved from https://www.thoughtco.com/getting-started-with-reenacting-1422852. 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. Brogans are broad-soled half boots with leather soles worn by the common foot soldier. Most will sleep/camp at the reenactment event. Women have to make the effort to disguise themselves as men. Here are the facts and trivia that people are buzzing about. American Civil War Society. These events help reenactors immerse themselves in the reenacting experience, gaining first-hand knowledge of war, battle strategy, and the hardships of combat. A plastic mug would be farby as would a polyester uniform since they didnt have polyester in 1861. Not only does it reinforce our sense of pride in our heritage, but its something in which the entire family can participate. Any unit you contact should be extremely welcoming and do everything they can to have you join their ranks. or C.S.A. Particularly welcomeand neededat reenactments are Black reenactors. The organization has grown to include dozens of civil war reenactors and their families. Their website is: www.CivilWarNews.com, Camp Chase Gazette is a how-to magazine for authentic reenactors. Historical reenacting gives you that chance. Families wishing to stay together all weekend can portray civilians. Mountains might be climbed. https://www.thoughtco.com/getting-started-with-reenacting-1422852 (accessed March 5, 2023). A few options to consider. Sometimes, you'll be able to find authentic uniforms to wear to reenactments, especially for 20th-century wars. Most reenactors join the infantry, which is followed in popularity by the artillery, then the cavalry and there are a few naval interpreters. It was anticipation of the 125th anniversary events, starting in 1986, when reenacting turned into a serious hobby. 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. For reenactments that span several days, this can be grueling. Just how much does it cost to be a Civil War reenactor? They are encouraged to buy their opposite impression as soon as they can afford the cost. Not all reenactment groups will offer the same experiences. There are three types of reenactors; mainstreamers who do not fit the Civil War image of young thin soldiers and bring extra gear for comfort, campaigners who pride themselves in living rough in the open and achieving authenticity and stitch counters who pay attention to details of the history of uniforms and equipment and who generally maneuver with either mainstreamers or campaigners. With sound recordings, new generations could hear the Rebel yellyelped by 95-year-old men who still had the spunk to give it. 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. Get a feel for the atmosphere and conditions of a living history event before you rush to buy vintage style military uniforms & equipment. Welcome to the home of the 52nd Tennessee Co. C. We are a group of living historians centered around the American Civil War. 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. If you asked to galvanize (switch sides) for a battle or event, dont complain. Mega events involve thousands of reenactors. As they learn how to be a soldier, they take tests and advance through the non-commissioned ranks to corporals and sergeants. In other words, you can try it out and see how you like it. When brigaded with other units, a reenactor general may command 200-300 men. Learn about one of the world's oldest and most popular religions. Company B, the reenacting group, is dedicated to preserving the legacy of the 54th Massachusetts Volunteer . 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. 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. 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. 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. Join us for a captivating reenactment of a Civil War skirmish, brought to life in stunning detail! Sutlers Merchants who followed troops during the Civil War. Be prepared to be footsore! 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. 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.. Reenacting does require a commitment, however, in both time and resources. Reliving the Civil War: A Re-enactors Handbook. 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. There is no age requirement for being a Civil War reenactor, but, of course, minors will need to have their parents approval and support. If you've gotten this far then hopefully you've put some thought into this endeavor. WW1 Reenactment Groups. Take your hits (deaths) If you wish to fight in a different unit that a family member fought in during the civil war. You've probably thought to yourself that reenacting sounds like fun, but you're just not sure about committing yourself due to time, money, and lack of know-how. While those shows inspired then young, now-middle aged reenactors to study the war, the producers paid little attention to authenticity. For the Bray family in Brunswick, American Civil War reenactment is more than just a historical hobby it's a family affair. Your email address will not be published. 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. It is where the Civil War soldier carried his food and where the reenactor will carry his food, wallet and car keys. 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. 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. Reenactors recreate history by portraying the look, actions, and lives of a person from a particular time period of history. 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. Arch supports were not invented in the 1860s, but feel free to put anything inside that helps you march. Reenactment, appropriately called "living history," also means living under the same conditions encountered during the past. . This website uses cookies to improve your experience. 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. Civilian A person, male or female, who reenacts any non-military impression during Reenactments. 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. 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. Muskets are real guns and fire a full powder charge but no bullet. Scouring the sutlers' goods may also set you up for an impulse buy that your historic persona doesn't really need. While Confederate regulations called for a kepi, most men opted for a slouch hat, a broad-brimmed hat of varying styles. They like to bring tents, camp chairs, hidden ice chests, and other gear that the original army would never have had. Sutlers set up large tents at reenactments and also sell on-line. If the unit is dedicated to historical accuracy, the accommodations will be meager. 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. A basic infantryman's kit can be assembled starting around $1,000, but once you start adding in costly replica weapons and period-authentic accoutrementsor you have your heart set on being a cavalry officeryou could easily spend many thousands. A Civil War Reenactment is the recreation of past battles for the education and entertainment of both spectators and hobbyists alike. 4) Read As Much As You Can: The best way to start your career in reenacting out right is to read extensively. Find WW1 Reenactment groups to join now! Are you interested in conducting research into tiny details of soldiers lives? Brush up on your geography and finally learn what countries are in Eastern Europe with our maps. 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. Cavalry and artillery reenactors have the added burden of worrying about their horses and mules stepping into holes on the field. R. Lee Hadden. 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. That is my indication and EXPRESSED consent to be treated like a slave by all participating confederate soldiers. Becoming a historical re-enactor requires an unquenchable thirst for history and abiding patience with uncomfortable accommodations and ridiculous outfits. That model Springfield was not developed until 1869. Instead they staged brigade-sized snowball fights. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. How does a starving man march 20 miles then go into a three-hour battle? [1]. BOOK TIP: "The Illustrated Battle Cry of Freedom: The Civil War Era". Too far forward, and the percussion cap is exploding in his ear. Mechanicsburg, PA: Stackpole Books, 1999. If they try for officer ranks like lieutenant and captain, they must take even more rigorous tests to demonstrate that they know the commands that moved men around the field. Do you have a passion for Ancient Rome, medieval fashion, or Colonial America, and the Salem Witch Trials? And finally, muskets are real guns. Most units have a list of acceptable gear and approved sutlers. Winter reenactors will want heavy overcoats which can cost upwards of $300. "Become a Member." Only a handful of men will make generals and they must know how to command at that level. Focused events try to recreate parts of battles. Some units have fifers and drummers. Speculation among reenactors is that smaller, focused events is where the hobby is headed. To submit a reenactment group for consideration, please contact us here. Events Could Include: Reenactments, Living Histories, Round Tables, Battlewalks, Shows, Lectures & More. 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. Reenacting units staged living histories to explain weapons and uniforms at venues like schools and public parks to recruit new hobbyists. It is up to reenactors to know if they have the stamina to participate in the action. The unit you ultimately join should be in a position to provide the elements that you want to get out of reenacting. If you crave intrigue and a dash of melodrama, historical fiction can make the past come alive. Can one really hear a Civil War era term the rattle of musketry? As a Civil War reenactor you will become a soldier, or a civilian, wearing authentic 1860s period clothing and learning to live as . Tacticals are unscripted battles which are usually not open to the public. During the Civil War Native Americans, Blacks, Asians, and Hispanics fought on both sides. 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. Buy at a reenactment or with the help of an experience unit member. To volunteer in historical reenactments, you'll be dedicating your time, sacrificing your modern comforts and paying a pretty penny. clear this with both units and dont just show up expecting to be ok. For instance, the Stonewall Brigades list is located here. The N word season pass premium + membership is in full effect for the day. Most people choose a reenactment group that operates fairly close to home - at least within a day's drive. Unit Type - Not all organizations are the same. In a reenactment, a persona is a character and role that you choose to portray. Unit Dues - Unit dues are typically the cheapest of all expenses. Reenactors often do more interacting with the visiting public such as performing drill and firing demonstrations, and giving flag and equipment talks. 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. 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. Both shows used reenactors for the first time, a revelation for Hollywood directors who suddenly realized that their extras knew how to act like Civil War soldiers. 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. 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. 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. Rivers might be crossed. The gear does not stop at just a firearm either. Learn fife or drum. 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. Cavalry reenactors have uniforms that are patterned after original cavalry uniforms. Check out our article How to Join a Reenactment Group. Once you invest time and money into historical volunteerism, you'll likely find great reward from all your efforts. It is common to find Black reenactors sprinkled in the Confederate ranks. We've got you covered with our map collection. Otherwise, the 60 grains of powder and a piece of paper wadding for each charge is authentic. 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). Living History Archive. While the vast majority of reenactors are standard uniformed Confederate and Union soldiers, there are some small numbers who wear unique uniforms. 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. That inattention to historical details led to groan-inducing scenes (for reenactors anyway) in Shenandoah where Jimmy Stewarts teenaged son grabs a Trapdoor Springfield and starts fighting. Short of actually traveling back in time, however, there is no better way to learn about history than by living it first-hand as a reenactor. The problem with modern day reenacting for USCTs is that they were not at many of the major battles because the original Union generals refused to put them into ranks beside white soldiers and because significant numbers werent enlisted or trained until the middle of 1863. Their website is: http://www.citizenscompanion.com/. 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. Load more. There are reenactment groups for almost any era that captures your interest, such as ancient Rome, the Middle Ages, the American Revolution or either of the World Wars. While the three-banded musket is standard, there might be the occasional chance to carry something else. Oftentimes, a young person will find themselves interested in living history but struggle to get involved. (May 8, 2009) http://www.salary.com/personal/layoutscripts/psnl_articles.asp?tab=psn&cat=cat011&ser=ser032, Miller, John. Many reenactors are completely outfitted with clothing, packs, gear, and vehicles their typical persona would carry. 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. Aside from physical distance, a reenactor needs to take into consideration a few factors. Choose a Persona 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. Reenactors adopt what they call impressions based on the type of person they want to portray. These can range anywhere from $5 a month to $25 a month. Learning an instrument is typically the easiest way for children to get involved. This Forum is for Posting Civil War Event Information. Most reenactors collect their kit over a period of time, borrowing from generous fellow soldiers until they are fully outfitted. The derogatory term for this same person is stitch nazi.. 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. 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. 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. Be sure to look into this. The 150th Manassas, Virginia event was held when the temperature on the field was 114 degrees. There is at least one Civil War era brass band using period instruments and playing period music. Have you often wondered what it might have been like to actually live in the past? Experience being part of bringing our nation's most turbulent and tragic era to life. In addition to having to wear hot, uncomfortable clothing, participants can forget about sleeping in comfortable beds, eating decent food and taking hot showers. Which branch reenactors join is up to their interest in each branchand their financial resources. Check out our article How to Join a Reenactment Group. Following are some useful terms to acquaint you with Civil War Reenacting. This can mean everything from uncomfortable clothes and terrible food to inclement weather and a poor excuse for a bed. 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). 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. 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. Reenactors wanting to get as close as possible to how the soldiers lived will use this resource. Powell, Kimberly. These organizations will often have a camp life where young ones can partake in 1860's life styles. But if you're more interested in other wars or time periods, don't despair. Finding a reenactment group isn't as easy as looking at a map and finding the unit closest to you. "How to Volunteer in Historical Reenactments" 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. American Civil War Reenactment Groups Historical reenactment groups and living history groups offer an insight into how men and women lived in past times. They carried Sharps rifles. Battle reenactments are scripted recreations of actual Civil War engagements, which spectators pay to come and watch. Salary.com. Infoplease is part of the Sandbox Learning family of educational and reference sites for parents, teachers and students. Germany . Some people do take the "authenticity" to an extreme, but most groups welcome anyone with an interest. Marches can range from a mile or so from camp to the battlefield to more than 20 miles at special events. 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. A reenactor is a special breed of person. C.S. Reenactors living near each other form around a company that comes from that same geographic area. Some of the young men who started reenacting decades ago when the 125th anniversary events attracted them are now passing through middle age. If looking to dive into Vietnam reenacting, the number one piece of advice is to speak to a unit before making purchases. Both sides tolerate them. I. Delaware. Civil War reenactors attempt to answer Footes rhetorical question by putting their 21st century selves into the roles of 19th century people. Learn more about the mythic conflict between the Argives and the Trojans. 2) Consider What You Want Out of Reenacting: Spend some time thinking about what aspects of reenacting interest you. Merchants known as sutlers set up on-site to sell clothing, accessories and weapons. 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. The 125th anniversary of the start of the war in 1986 saw reenacting turn into a serious hobby. 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. 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. 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. 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. If its not, consider trying another group. Event Dues - This can really depend on the event and what is provided with the fee. Reenactment also takes time, but this can be as little as a 2-3 hour event once or twice a year, to a half-dozen three-day weekend encampments. The main thing one has to learn is the infantry drill, and to follow orders to execute maneuvers. AUTHENTIC Civil War Flag General W.F. 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. ThoughtCo, Aug. 26, 2020, thoughtco.com/getting-started-with-reenacting-1422852. 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. Mainstreamers cheerfully accept the nickname TBG- which stands for Tubby Bearded Guys. 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 two-banded muskets were very common in ranks during the War, reenactors should not use them because of safety concerns with respect to the length of the barrel. 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. Once you do, it's time to create your own historical persona. How do your feet feel after marching 22 miles in a single day in thin-soled brogans? 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. The Event Wire - Information. You may want to speak candidly with your current units commander about what youre looking for in another unit, as they may have contacts or suggestions for other units that you can consider (if a unit commander isnt willing to do this, its probably a sign you should leave that unit anyways, as theyre not looking out for your best interests). These can range anywhere from $5 a month to $25 a month. 2nd Rhode Island Regiment. Read more. Check with your reenacting unit before buying any gun. 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. Members may portray either a military impression, or one of many civilian roles which are appropriate to the Civil War period. Reenactors do not dwell on that terrible human cost. 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.
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