Although most common in the United States, there are also American Civil War reenactors in Canada, the United Kingdom,. 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). Nothing spoils the look of a rank of men in a battle line then seeing someone wearing modern day glasses or ear rings. There is no age requirement for being a Civil War reenactor, but, of course, minors will need to have their parents approval and support. Reenactor A person, male or female, dedicated to recreating the War Between the States or Civil War. The weapons that reenactors carry are real -- and loaded. Nearly all of the muskets available today are made in Italy, but some used ones manufactured back in the 1970s and 1980s are available from Japan and England. Most large re-enactment events take place outdoors, so spring through fall are very active times of the year for the majority of these groups. To take part in high quality reenactments a reenactor should expect to drive at least a day for quality 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. Most reenacting units have both a website and a Facebook page, making it easier for people to find local units. https://www.thoughtco.com/getting-started-with-reenacting-1422852 (accessed March 5, 2023). 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 future of reenacting rests on the shoulders of younger generations. 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 you crave intrigue and a dash of melodrama, historical fiction can make the past come alive. Once a prospective reenactor joins a unit the next step is to buy gear from sutlers, merchants specializing in the hobby named after the original civilian shop keepers who catered to the needs of Civil War soldiers. Most reenacting units are equipped to act as either Federal or Confederate troops in order to be able to balance numbers at reenacting events. 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. Young Civil War Reenactor (photo by D. Farr). There are a wide variety of canteens including wooden ones that Confederate soldiers carried, but which would not be appropriate for Union soldiers. Then again in 1938, those same veterans returned. The most stare-inducing women reenactors are those ladies portraying Catholic nuns who served as nurses during the war. Whoever is physically able can take to the battlefield with certain age restrictions. Thanks for reaching out John we just got in touch to provide you some additional information. Check ourencyclopedia for a gloss on thousands of topics from biographies to the table of elements. Aside from physical distance, a reenactor needs to take into consideration a few factors. That is also the reason why most leather gear is black, the standard Union color. 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. 2nd Rhode Island Regiment. The best first purchase you can make is a pair of well-built shoes, usually called brogans or bootees. While still too small in numbers to simulate actual Civil War battles, the mega-events at least gave reenactors a sense of what the major battles would have been like. Also, merchants who set up during reenactments and sell period-style goods to reenactors and the public. Perhaps you have a friend in the hobby who has encouraged you to give it a try. Encampments allow visitors to wander through a Civil War camp and observe soldiers training, resting, playing, and simply relaxingall without television, iPods, or computers! And, if one wants, one can carry original muskets if they are safe. 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. Few units allow people in 21st century garb to camp in the military camp as it detracts from the reenactment atmosphere. Most people take their roles seriously and pride themselves on representing history as accurately as possible. 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. A plastic mug would be farby as would a polyester uniform since they didnt have polyester in 1861. Each unit has a different function and will provide a much different experience. Required fields are marked *. WW1 Reenactment Groups. A love of history of all time periods is common though reenactors focus on the 19th century. What's more, you could get hurt. The only difference between the Civil War and the reenacting firing is that no Mini ball is rammed down the barrel. American Civil War Society. Focused events try to recreate parts of battles. 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]. The youngest vet eran was 61 and the oldest was 112. 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. Living Histories at original battlefields are by invitation by the National Park Service or the states that also maintain battlefields. When brigaded with other units, a reenactor general may command 200-300 men. During the Civil War Native Americans, Blacks, Asians, and Hispanics fought on both sides. By now you are probably wondering, "how much is all of this going to cost me? Your email address will not be published. Invitation events are smaller with limited numbers of participants making them easier to manage. You must have a passion for history and an active imagination. The problem with these specialty impressions is that they only operate as units. The unit you ultimately join should be in a position to provide the elements that you want to get out of reenacting. Retrieved from https://www.thoughtco.com/getting-started-with-reenacting-1422852. 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. Find WW1 Reenactment groups to join now! 2) Consider What You Want Out of Reenacting: Spend some time thinking about what aspects of reenacting interest you. Confederate Zouaves called Louisiana Tigers wear striped baggy pants. Reenacting remained a small hobby during the mid-1970s when events numbering several hundred reenactors were common. 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. 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. Most large re-enactment events take place outdoors, so spring through fall are very active times of the year for the majority of these groups. Infantry is the easiest branch to learn and to finance. The largest event was likely the 135th Gettysburg reenactment where an estimated 15,000 attended. The same uniforms worn in the summer are worn in the winter. 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. Photos from the time period show some men marching in ranks with M-1 Garands, World War II semi-automatic rifles. They are encouraged to buy their opposite impression as soon as they can afford the cost. That model Springfield was not developed until 1869. Reenactors enjoy camping, cooking over an open fire, guns, loud noises, marching, military discipline, and telling stories. Marches can range from a mile or so from camp to the battlefield to more than 20 miles at special events. They are wondering if sleeping on the ground is as much fun as it was when they were young. Reenactors sacrifice immense amounts of time, effort, and money to recreate history. Brogans are broad-soled half boots with leather soles worn by the common foot soldier. Mechanicsburg, PA: Stackpole Books, 1999. Welcome! Are you looking for something you can do with your family? The N word season pass premium + membership is in full effect for the day. Reenactors adopt what they call impressions based on the type of person they want to portray. That means most Union forces on Southern battlefields likely talk with Southern accents even though they are in blue. While the three-banded musket is standard, there might be the occasional chance to carry something else. Reenacting events come in varying categories. Units of mainstreamers may number from 20 to 100. Threadcounter A reenactor who insists on a historically accurate impression, down to fabric and buttonholes having the same threadcount typical of the time. 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. That part of history cannot be changed. ThoughtCo. Historical reenacting gives you that chance. 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. https://28thmass.orgLately I've noticed quite a few of you showing more interest in Civil War reenacting specifically. 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. This Forum is for Posting Civil War Event Information. 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. Reenactors refer to their clothing and equipment as theirkit. Civil War Traveler lists a variety of events, including reenactments, searchable by state so newcomers can see some reenactments in person and talk to unit members. Before showtime, pots and pans are some of the tools reenactor Tanya Haessly makes the most use of as a camp cook, feeding families and individuals taking part in a Civil War reenactment in Janney . or C.S.A. Artillery reenactors are expected to know how to work all of the positions of the cannon, which can cost upwards of $15,000 and likely belongs to one person. American Civil War Reenactment Groups Historical reenactment groups and living history groups offer an insight into how men and women lived in past times. Battle Cry of Freedom: The Civil War Era is a Pulitzer Prize-winning work on the American Civil War. These organizations will often have a camp life where young ones can partake in 1860's life styles. You can buy relatively cheap U.S. uniforms from the World Wars. BOOK TIP: "The Illustrated Battle Cry of Freedom: The Civil War Era". Keep attending reenactments until you find a period that suits your specific interests and talents. 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 ]. 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. Reenactors believe that a weekend playing soldier or civilian brings them closer to understanding the experiences of the men and women who lived in that time. Farby is a Civil War Reenactment term for anything not typical of the period. 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. 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. 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. 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. It is particularly valuable for its calendar of upcoming events, and book reviews. Eric Tetreault/Connecticut Renaissance Faire. Any unit youre interested in joining should be eager to loan you a uniform and equipment for your first few events (if they are not or if youre pressured to purchase equipment right away, youre probably considering the wrong unit). Do not make the mistake of spending a lot of money on gear that ends up gathering dust in your basement or up for sale on eBay. Reenactors wanting to get as close as possible to how the soldiers lived will use this resource. 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. Most reenactors collect their kit over a period of time, borrowing from generous fellow soldiers until they are fully outfitted. Be sure to look into this. 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. Authenticity, while ignored in the 1960s, is now universally required by reenacting units. Now i ma The persona is sometimes referred to as an impression. Oftentimes, a young person will find themselves interested in living history but struggle to get involved. But, for whatever reason, something about recreating the life of a Civil War soldier resonates with you and youre interested in joining the hobby. Units portraying the Vietnam War aren't nearly as prolific as World War 2 or Civil War impressions. "How to Become a Re-Enactor." Once you invest time and money into historical volunteerism, you'll likely find great reward from all your efforts. Hand to hand combat is heavily scripted, never engage on your own. 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. 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. One place to find equipment for sale is at the reenactment events. 2022 Sandbox Networks Inc. All rights reserved. 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. "How to Volunteer in Historical Reenactments" 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). Reenactors take their jobs very seriously. Active members, either military or . In addition to special uniforms, some reenactors will be tempted to get special firearms. The North Florida Artillery was incorporated as a non-profit organization in the state of Florida in March 2007. A musket will shoot a flame of fire and unburned powder out the muzzle. 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! Their website is: http://www.citizenscompanion.com/. If you can find material written by men from the unit you portray, even better. So, many die-hard history-lovers volunteer in historical reenactments for an action-packed and enlightening experience. Muskets are real guns and fire a full powder charge but no bullet. There is at least one Civil War era brass band using period instruments and playing period music. Which branch reenactors join is up to their interest in each branchand their financial resources. 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. Not all organizations allow family's along for the ride. While reenactors do like authenticity, they draw the line at paying upwards of $30 for registration fees, but finding over-flowing port-a-johns by Sunday morning. 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. Learn fife or drum. Unit Dues - Unit dues are typically the cheapest of all expenses. If the unit is dedicated to historical accuracy, the accommodations will be meager. 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. Horses, though trained to expect loud noises from cannons, rifles, pistols and clanging sabers, sometimes throw their riders to the ground. There is no poll showing where reenactors live, but observation would put a majority of them in The South. For official duties, these youngstersoften between 10 and 14were called on to fill supporting roles such as drummers, buglers, messengers, and field assistants. These reenactors can make a modest living by working in museums or historic sites such as Plymouth, Mass., or Williamsburg, Va. There are essentially three types of reenactors; mainstream, campaigners, and stitch counters. Please copy/paste the following text to properly cite this HowStuffWorks.com article: Jane McGrath They carried Sharps rifles. Reenactors accept discomfort, port-a-johns, close quarters, and the aches that come with carrying gear that weighs 20 pounds or more. Hundreds of . In historical reenactments, people from all walks of life gather together, dressed head-to-toe in period clothing. Civil War Reenactment is one of the fastest growing hobbies in the United States, and with good reason. The 125th Franklin, Tennessee event was held in minus 10 wind chill. As you build your knowledge, there is a wealth of information available in online archives and books drawn from soldiers letters, diaries, and post-war memoirs. The United States Marines wear distinctive crossed white belts. Most reenactors are everyday people from all walks of life, with ages ranging from 16 to people in their sixties. Living history events include encampments, parades, and school enrichment programs. Powell, Kimberly. To submit a reenactment group for consideration, please contact us here. Typical costs for reenacting might include the following. First-person - When a reenactor speaks to fellow reenactors and the public as a person during the 1860s. Finding a reenactment group isn't as easy as looking at a map and finding the unit closest to you. Authentic Campaigner is a blog dedicated to events, impressions, goods, etc. You'll have the Web at your fingertips to research an object's authenticity -- and to compare prices from multiple vendors. What did the Gettysburg artillery barrage sound like? Living History Archive. How does a starving man march 20 miles then go into a three-hour battle? [1]. Civilian A person, male or female, who reenacts any non-military impression during Reenactments. Civilian reenactors are the least expensive impressions to achieve, and have the most flexibility since the clothes chosen can range from elegant to simple. Both firearms are basically the same, but it is critical that reenactors choose the longer 3-banded models over the sometimes available two-banded models. The largest event was the 135th Gettysburg reenactment which involved 15,000 reenactors. For many people, there's nothing drier than a dense history book. C.S. We had a weekend with perfect weather and many exciting and educational activities. 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. Speculation among reenactors is that smaller, focused events is where the hobby is headed. I show up. Buy at a reenactment or with the help of an experience unit member. They'll have fun watching the excitement, and you'll get to teach them about history. There are Federal Zouave units who wear bright red pants, red trimmed jackets, and turbans. 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. The easiest way for children to get involved in reenacting is to do it as a family. 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. Invitation events are smaller events where organizers limit the number of participants in order to better manage the scale. Notify me of follow-up comments by email. A reenactor is a special breed of person. Civilian - A person, male or female, who reenacts any non-military impression during Reenactments. The granddaddy of all Civil War sutlers started outfitting reenactors in the mid-1970s. "How to Get Started With Historical Reenacting." Becoming a historical re-enactor requires an unquenchable thirst for history and abiding patience with uncomfortable accommodations and ridiculous outfits. Here are the facts and trivia that people are buzzing about. AUTHENTIC Civil War Flag General W.F. The atmosphere is relaxed, allowing reenactors to recruit new members. Tacticals are unscripted battles which are usually not open to the public. 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. There's nothing volunteering in a historical reenactment to experience the sights, sounds and smells of history. Civil War reenactors attempt to answer Footes rhetorical question by putting their 21st century selves into the roles of 19th century people. They will take on the persona of one who is living through the period and will not speak in modern language. Reenacting for many is a serious, but fun, event. (May 8, 2009) http://www.2ri.org/become_a_member.htm, Bromer, Zachary. 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. And that's not including weaponry: An M1 Garand will put you out $700 to $900, while other period guns cost less than $100. Reenacting. Reproduction clothing can cost several hundred dollars, and reproduction period rifles as much as $1000. Or, Dad can stay in the military camp while Mom and the kids stay in a civilian camp. We are active from Virginia to New England.