So you want to be a Reeanactor?
Below you will find general information about becoming a Reenactor and what you will need to get started
This information will give you an idea of what is required for your uniform and gear plus associated costs.
It will also give you an idea of just what it is that we do as"Living Historians" of the Civil War.
In January the itch to smell some black powder and get together with old and new friends returns once again. Our unit generally holds it’s annual organizational meeting then to discuss any matters concerning our unit as well as choose what events we plan to attend. Events usually start in April or early May, and we usually try to schedule one a month through October. We realize that people have other commitments, but we ask that you try to attend as many of the scheduled events as possible, since a poor showing is a reflection on our unit as a whole. However, there is room in our unit for the serious hobbyist who learns the drill but is only able to be an occasional day tripper, or the soldier who wishes to attend every event scheduled from beginning to end. If you would like to take part in additional Civil War events that our unit has not scheduled to attend, we have no problem with that.
Our unit is constantly growing in size. It is made up of great people and families from all walks of life. We are made up of veterans who have attended huge national events, as well as new members who have just recently been bitten by the “bug”. The important thing to remember is that there is room for all levels, and that we all have a thirst to learn more about our hobby as well as educate the public to our period of history. We all work together to have as much FUN as we can. We sincerely hope you will decide to join!
What is a Reenacting Event Like?
A typical event for the Civil War Reenactor begins with arriving, checking in at registration, and setting up camp on Friday night or Saturday morning. It’s fun to share resources and car-pool with your “pards”, although many soldiers arrive by themselves when they can get there. Participants continue to arrive throughout the evening as the camps are set up, and the tent streets are laid out. The first sergeant assigns crews to dig the fire pits, and sees that the wood and water supply is sufficient. Soldiers begin to slip into their 19th century roles! this is a time that many soldiers enjoy most, a time to unwind from the week’s activities and relax around the campfire with old and new friends. talk switches quickly between 19th and 20th century events, as we swap lies and tell jokes.
The event officially begins Saturday morning and all vehicles and 21st century anachronisms are banned from the camps. The troops wake up to reveille and roll call. After a hearty breakfast and strong coffee around the campfire, the tents are made ready for inspection. the ranks and files are formed on the company street. Weapons are inspected, and the troops are paraded out to practice drill. Skirmishes and unscripted tactical situations against the enemy may develop. These are usually planned for Saturday afternoon and are basically war games that give the commanding officers the chance to maneuver the troops through realistic situations. After the battle is a great time to interact with the many spectators who will tour the camps and ask questions.
Ladies teas are often scheduled on Saturday afternoon. Women Reenactors gather to socialize and partake in refreshments, dressed in their 1860’s period finery. Young ladies can be seen sewing or playing games, young men can be seen aiding the surgeons. There is something to do for all members of the Reenactors family!
On Saturday evening, many event hosts provide a meal to all participants. There is often a gala dance or concert, with music provided by a Civil War period band. troops from both sides enjoy each others company under the mutual flag of truce.
Sunday morning is usually free time at most events, when has time to “hit the Sutler’s” tent to pick up necessary items to add to his impression. Shortly after noon, the units form up for the main event of the weekend, the Sunday Battle. this is a scripted affair, often based on actual campaign maneuvers. Your only responsibility is to follow the commands of your company officer so that even a carefully scripted battle reenactment can be a realistic experience for you.
As soon as the battle is over and the cannon’s deafening roar still rings in your ears, you will undoubtedly be greeted back in the camps by curious spectators full of questions about what they have just witnessed. It’s a great opportunity to interact with the public and give them a little piece of “living history” education. then its time to tear down the camps, say good bye to your pards, load up your gear and drive home reflecting on your wonderful weekend, and anticipating when you will get to do it all over again!
Living History Events
A living History event is the same as a reenactment, except there is no battle. With no battles to fight, the troops are able to portray to the public the typical duties of camp life. Our unit sometimes schedules such scenarios as mail call, sick call, company drill and campfire cooking. Soldiers may be “disciplined” in front of the public in such scenarios as being caught cheating at cards or for drunkenness. This is the type of event many soldiers prefer, as it is prime time to interact with the public who will tour the encampment, as well as gain valuable information from the more experienced soldiers.
School Presentations and Parades
Most schools welcome the chance to have Reenactors come into their classrooms for “in character show and tell” presentations. It can be an extremely rewarding experience to give kids a chance to touch and live a bit of history, as you bring to life what they have only studied from books in the classroom. Some of these kids will ask great questions! Parades and memorial services give us a chance to pay respect to the real Civil War soldiers who went before us, and a chance to shine with pride, displaying our flags and color guard outside the realm of an encampment.
Ordering Information for
Uniform and Equipment
The uniforms are incredibly realistic, accurate reproductions. They are available from any of the reputable Sutlers. A pair of Army trousers, Federal sack coat and forage cap are all you really need to get started along with the leather accouterments and canteen. The Euroarms 3 band Enfield Musket will probably be your most expensive purchase. These fine reproductions are currently available from many of the same Sutlers at a cost of about $450, although rarely used weapons become available. In addition to these basic items, you will need some sort of eating equipment if you plan to eat in front of the public. This means a tin cup, tin plate, and tin knife, fork and spoon. Later on, if you become a Sutler addict like most of us have, you might want to consider purchasing items such as a tent, poncho, greatcoat, vest, knapsack, or anything else that the Sutlers carry to make the experience more comfortable, but these items are by no means necessary.