I’m 19 and in college. I’m interested in events during Summer and on weekends. I’m also interested primarily in 18th and 19th century history. How do I get started? What type of costumes will I need?

Answer(s):

First, NEVER call it a costume… 😮 you’ll probably get to hear about it being “clothing” or a “uniform” etc. and they’ll be right. Reenactors tend to like things called correctly and the term “costumes” conjures up the idea of a play or something. Considering the amount of work some people go to to get their reenacting clothing (garb, uniforms, etc.) “just so” and accurate, you can see their point.

So, to get involved: Why not just ask one of the participants? I’m sure they will be more than happy to help you. Most reenactors are friendly folk who will go out of their way to talk about their hobby and help new people get started right! There are many Civil War reenactment clubs and groups in America! Many!! Check out reenactor.Net’s Civil War time/area for this.

In Person

Go to events to watch for a bit. Resist joining right away and DO NOT buy any kit until you join a unit. That advice is worth the whole price of admission and more. Anyway… every year, they reenact the Battle of Gettysburg, in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania over the 4th of July holiday — if you can get over there, you could not only observe what the reenactors do, you could also talk to a number of them about their units and requirements. Some of them are dedicated to the point of obsession, but most are in it for fun. Meet the people!

The Internet, your friend

Search for reenactment groups on the Internet; make contact with a number of groups (preferably close to you and not hundreds of miles away) and go from there. Again, we really suggest that you visit a few places that are holding some type of reenactment before you invest money into the hobby. Reenacting can be fun, but remember: we do this for fun and if it’s not fun, why do it? You want to be around people that you enjoy and also, since you’re investing time and money to do this hobby, make it easier and better for yourself by doing a little research first.

Ask Questions

Competition for “recruits” can be intense and it’s best to ask about what the unit “does” and how they act. Most try to let the new recruit know what the unit is “about…” For example, if they’re a “hardcore” group, they will try and let the potential member know this. Conversely, if they’re a family-oriented or Christian group, most groups try to put out that message too. Communication is key. If you like to “imbibe,” a “family” type group might not be your cup of tea. Same with if you’re not into partying, it might be best to find out if the group you’re looking into does this kind of thing.

Other Time Periods

If you’re not into Civil War, that’s okay… Choose a period that you’re really passionate about, and give it all you have. Just get int here. Do your research, and remember… Have FUN!

Contact a local historical society for historical events that may be planned for your area. Search the internet for reenactment groups. Besides the time periods I “do,” I have been to several Renaissance, Civil War, Revolutionary War, and Mountain Men reenactments. The participants are passionate about their involvement, and many of them often travel hundreds of miles to participate — you don’t have to, but some do.

Ende!