They will take on the persona of one who is living through the period and will not speak in modern language. Shopping online is a good alternative to making purchases at a reenactment. and then went into battle to save Lees army, but until one has marched that same route, it is all theory. 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. "I decided to join the Civil War reenacting group that helped to make the movie." . This is especially important when it comes to clothing and weaponry, as we'll see on the next page. I. Delaware. "How to Volunteer in Historical Reenactments" Reenactor A person, male or female, dedicated to recreating the War Between the States or Civil War. 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. 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. Please copy/paste the following text to properly cite this HowStuffWorks.com article: Jane McGrath Reenactors adopt what they call impressions based on the type of person they want to portray. Units of mainstreamers may number from 20 to 100. In 1913 elderly Union and Confederate veterans met at the 50th anniversary of Gettysburg and put themselves through their pacesbut without the muskets they had used against each other. I receive a small amount of compensation when you purchase from my links at no additional cost to you. 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. Find WW1 Reenactment groups to join now! The age restriction on handling firearms does not prevent one from taking part in the hobby. 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. By joining such a society, you'll have time to try out your persona before committing to any major purchases for your own kit. Take your hits (deaths) If you wish to fight in a different unit that a family member fought in during the civil war. Their website is: www.campchase.com), The Citizens Companion focuses on civilian reenacting and is also published by the same company that publishes Camp Chase Gazette. The only difference between the Civil War and the reenacting firing is that no Mini ball is rammed down the barrel. 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. If you've gotten this far then hopefully you've put some thought into this endeavor. 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. 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. 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. There are a wide variety of canteens including wooden ones that Confederate soldiers carried, but which would not be appropriate for Union soldiers. That means most Union forces on Southern battlefields likely talk with Southern accents even though they are in blue. Finally, there is the largest investment of all, the musket and bayonet. 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. 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. While some of the research is now a bit dated, there is no better place to start than Bell Wileys classicsThe Life of Johnny Reb: The Common Soldier of the Confederacyand The Life of Billy Yank: The Common Soldier of the Union. Two TV mini-series, Blue & Gray (1982), and North & South (1985) drove interest in reenacting in the early 1980s. 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. 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. Reenactments are only fun if there are enough enemies on the other side. Get a feel for the atmosphere and conditions of a living history event before you rush to buy vintage style military uniforms & equipment. Instead they staged brigade-sized snowball fights. Historical reenactment groups and living history groups offer an insight into how men and women lived in past times. 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. WELCOME TO THE 49TH INDIANA CO.F. Your email address will not be published. The United States Marines wear distinctive crossed white belts. You'll have the Web at your fingertips to research an object's authenticity -- and to compare prices from multiple vendors. 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. Did you have ancestors who participated in a particular war? One note for reenactors living in states with strict gun laws. How do I join a unit as a reenactor? 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. Otherwise, the 60 grains of powder and a piece of paper wadding for each charge is authentic. 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. Buy at a reenactment or with the help of an experience unit member. 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. The youngest vet eran was 61 and the oldest was 112. Muster A gathering, especially of troops, for service, inspection, review or roll call. Welcome to the home of the 52nd Tennessee Co. C. We are a group of living historians centered around the American Civil War. Each unit also has a slightly different personality and quirks they might be laid back or intense, their members may all have similar backgrounds and have known each other all their lives or they may be more diverse, they may be highly social at events and the life of the party or they may be more reserved. 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. And that will generally be a four-wheel-drive SUV as all reenactors will one day find themselves in a muddy field wondering if they will be able to get out in time to get back to work on Monday. By the time Ken Burns PBS special The Civil War debuted in 1990 interest in the War was on an upswing. 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. Most reenacting units require members to own dual impressions; both Union and Confederate. 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. This list is by no means complete. 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]. What period of history most grabs your interest? If you are having any kind of encampment and want it in a certain order, let them know ahead of time. That means single reenactors in a specialty uniform must search out similar reenactors to fall in with at events. Reenacting units are organized in some of the same ways as Civil War companies and regiments. Confederate Zouaves called Louisiana Tigers wear striped baggy pants. Then again in 1938, those same veterans returned. 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. Three factors come into play, and the United States demonstrates all of them. Youre obviously interested in the Civil War, otherwise you wont be considering reenacting. In addition to having to wear hot, uncomfortable clothing, participants can forget about sleeping in comfortable beds, eating decent food and taking hot showers. Some people do take the "authenticity" to an extreme, but most groups welcome anyone with an interest. 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. That could be in California, Wisconsin, or even Russia. Need a reference? Only a handful of men will make generals and they must know how to command at that level. Reenactors enjoy camping, cooking over an open fire, guns, loud noises, marching, military discipline, and telling stories. Brogans are broad-soled half boots with leather soles worn by the common foot soldier. 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! 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. Most reenacting units are equipped to act as either Federal or Confederate troops in order to be able to balance numbers at reenacting events. A reenactor is a special breed of person. Once you invest time and money into historical volunteerism, you'll likely find great reward from all your efforts. 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. Cavalry reenactors have uniforms that are patterned after original cavalry uniforms. A love of history of all time periods is common though reenactors focus on the 19th century. Civilian A person, male or female, who reenacts any non-military impression during Reenactments. Its educational and, finally, its a great way to escape the worries of today and pretend in the great outdoors. Besides the weather elements, there may be holes in the field that twist ankles, yellow jacket nests that are disturbed, and poison ivy and poison oak lurking in the woods. Living histories take place at the actual battlefield by invitation from the National Park Service. Local living histories at venues such as historically themed parks are where many potential reenactors see their first living historians. Is there a list or quartermaster who do I need to contact to get involved as a reenactor for the civil war. Civilian reenactors are the least expensive impressions to achieve, and have the most flexibility since the clothes chosen can range from elegant to simple. Do not buy from sutlers on-line then select which unit you want to join. While the uniforms are generallywelluniform, hats (at least for Confederate portrayals) can be a matter of personal choice. Learn about one of the world's oldest and most popular religions. Active members, either military or . Reenactments are family events, so feel free to bring the kids, too. The persona is sometimes referred to as an impression. While the vast majority of reenactors are standard uniformed Confederate and Union soldiers, there are some small numbers who wear unique uniforms. Marches can range from a mile or so from camp to the battlefield to more than 20 miles at special events. Please Keep Reenactment Discussions in Proper Forum! 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. If looking to dive into Vietnam reenacting, the number one piece of advice is to speak to a unit before making purchases. 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. 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. For the sake of authenticity, women do not bear arms. For instance, the Stonewall Brigades list is located here. Learning an instrument is typically the easiest way for children to get involved. It is up to reenactors to know if they have the stamina to participate in the action. As they learn how to be a soldier, they take tests and advance through the non-commissioned ranks to corporals and sergeants. The 26th North Carolina Troops and the 24th Michigan ran head-on into each other on the first day of Gettysburg in McPhersons Woods. Learn more about the world with our collection of regional and country maps. We come from in and around Shelby County. By Robert Arvay. Most people take their roles seriously and pride themselves on representing history as accurately as possible. The main thing one has to learn is the infantry drill, and to follow orders to execute maneuvers. Also: Post Your Event Photos, Reviews, & Wrap-Ups. Little children have no business on the field because they can become separated from parents. Reenactors who claim: My ancestors would roll over in their graves if I portrayed the other side are frowned upon. Confederate States or Confederate States Army. There is no age requirement for being a Civil War reenactor, but, of course, minors will need to have their parents approval and support. 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. There is no poll showing where reenactors live, but observation would put a majority of them in The South. . Period clothing and accessories can be very expensive -- depending on the period and figure you're portraying. Unit Dues - Unit dues are typically the cheapest of all expenses. Becoming a historical re-enactor requires an unquenchable thirst for history and abiding patience with uncomfortable accommodations and ridiculous outfits. Germany . They are great foundational introductions to the topic. Battle Cry of Freedom: The Civil War Era is a Pulitzer Prize-winning work on the American Civil War. The future of reenacting rests on the shoulders of younger generations. In addition to special uniforms, some reenactors will be tempted to get special firearms. Reenacting is at a cross-roads. 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. In particular, take notice of the grisly conditions a reenactor has to deal with -- especially in battle reenactments. The important thing to remember is the child still needs adult supervision. Reenacting does require a commitment, however, in both time and resources. Infoplease is part of the Sandbox Learning family of educational and reference sites for parents, teachers and students. 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. While it is rare, people have died from the exertion. Particularly welcomeand neededat reenactments are Black reenactors. 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 largest event was the 135th Gettysburg reenactment which involved 15,000 reenactors. 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. 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. Reenacting remained a small hobby during the mid-1970s when events numbering several hundred reenactors were common. Civil War reenactors attempt to answer Footes rhetorical question by putting their 21st century selves into the roles of 19th century people. Infantry is the easiest branch to learn and to finance. Join us for a captivating reenactment of a Civil War skirmish, brought to life in stunning detail! We had a weekend with perfect weather and many exciting and educational activities. 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. 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. While doing their impression many will do a first-person impression. 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. This manual includes such things as company tactics and firing details [source: Miller]. "Become a Member." First-person When a reenactor speaks to fellow reenactors and the public as a person during the 1860s. Read more. No detail about a reenactors appearance should be ignored. Nothing spoils the look of a rank of men in a battle line then seeing someone wearing modern day glasses or ear rings. While there are several models such as an early war smoothbore musket, or a mid-war rifle musket, there are really only two brand choices for infantry. Civil War Reenactment is one of the fastest growing hobbies in the United States, and with good reason. 2022 Sandbox Networks Inc. All rights reserved. Although most common in the United States, there are also American Civil War reenactors in Canada, the United Kingdom,. Here you can find a list of groups that portray the Great War period. Horses, though trained to expect loud noises from cannons, rifles, pistols and clanging sabers, sometimes throw their riders to the ground. 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. Events Could Include: Reenactments, Living Histories, Round Tables, Battlewalks, Shows, Lectures & More. Cavalry and artillery reenactors have the added burden of worrying about their horses and mules stepping into holes on the field. Since the war took place in the South, it is more difficult for Yankees in Northern states to make the events in the Southern states. Reenacting events come in varying categories. Many reenactors are completely outfitted with clothing, packs, gear, and vehicles their typical persona would carry. While we are based in Middle Tennessee, we have active and semi-active members in many states from Florida to Arizona and Alabama to Iowa besides our core Tennessee and Kentucky group. 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. 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 . 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. 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. This website uses cookies to improve your experience. Many units will choose opposite unit impressions that have something to do with the primary unit they portray, or perhaps a unit that passed through their home area. In other words, you can try it out and see how you like it. Here are the facts and trivia that people are buzzing about. Beginners should start by attending Civil War Reenactments and observing what goes on. Learn more about the mythic conflict between the Argives and the Trojans. https://www.thoughtco.com/getting-started-with-reenacting-1422852 (accessed March 5, 2023). Don't buy a uniform or other equipment until you've joined a unit, which might have its own particular rules for attire. Most reenactment organizations also won't allow children under 16 to bear arms. that appeal to campaigners. 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. Invitation events are smaller with limited numbers of participants making them easier to manage. Most units have a list of acceptable gear and approved sutlers. A musket will shoot a flame of fire and unburned powder out the muzzle. 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. Emmitsburg Area Historical Society.http://www.emmitsburg.net/archive_list/articles/misc/re-enactor.htm, Special Offer on Antivirus Software From HowStuffWorks and TotalAV Security, How the Civilian Conservation Corp Worked. Reenactment groups and societies can be found all over the world, although they are especially active in the U.S., UK, Germany, Sweden, Canada, and Australia. A colonial shopkeeper will have a pretty simple costume compared to a Civil War general's uniform. Between a quarter and a third of the Union army was made up of European immigrants so real or imitation Irish and eastern European accents are welcome. Typical costs for reenacting might include the following. 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. BOOK TIP: "The Illustrated Battle Cry of Freedom: The Civil War Era". 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, or living historians.. Living history events include encampments, parades, and school enrichment programs. 4. Notify me of follow-up comments by email. Families wishing to stay together all weekend can portray civilians. Learn fife or drum. All races and ethnicities can reenact. Encampments allow visitors to wander through a Civil War camp and observe soldiers training, resting, playing, and simply relaxingall without television, iPods, or computers! Check out our article How to Join a Reenactment Group. Not only does it reinforce our sense of pride in our heritage, but its something in which the entire family can participate. Many units have loaner gear or special requirements. How to Get Started on a Literature Review, Discovering the Occupations of Your Ancestors, Ancient Sources on Persian or Iranian History, Fun Family History Activities for Family Reunions, 3 Practical Ways to Become a Better Homeschooling Teacher, Certificate in Genealogical Research, Boston University. 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. 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 is also the reason why most leather gear is black, the standard Union color. 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. 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. Discover more about American history at one of these events. The NPS decided that mock battles detracted from the commemorative nature of the battlefields. Here you can find a list of groups that portray the American Civil War period. We strive for accurate historical depiction of our original unit." YouTube Video Creator "History Boy" Drummer, 8th Connecticut Volunteer Infantry Co. Members may portray either a military impression, or one of many civilian roles which are appropriate to the Civil War period. As a spectator, you have a great opportunity to get a preview of what volunteering is like. Infoplease is a reference and learning site, combining the contents of an encyclopedia, a dictionary, an atlas and several almanacs loaded with facts. We are a Civil War reenactment group based in Murfreesboro, Tennessee that portrays the 9th Kentucky Volunteer Infantry (US). To a CIVIL WAR reenactment. Most reenactors are everyday people from all walks of life, with ages ranging from 16 to people in their sixties. 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. Your mentor can also assist you in finding used gear either from unit members or outside resources like eBay or Facebook. The N word season pass premium + membership is in full effect for the day. Be prepared to be footsore! Reenacting can be a family hobby with Dad, Mom, and the kids all portraying 19th century roles.
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