Civilian Reenacting on a Budget

A little money, wisely spent, can still yield a top-notch civilian impression. If you're willing to learn to sew your own clothing, the cash outlay for a rank beginner's full civilian kit can be under $100. While this may not result in a "top of the line" civilian impression, it is still quite serviceable, and more than passably historically accurate.

Purchases:

• 10 yards white muslin at $.99 cents a yard (JoAnn Fabrics, regular price).

This will make a petticoat (3 yards), a chemise (2.5 yards), a pair of drawers (2 yards), 2 or 3 collars (1/2 yard), and provide bodice lining for your first dress (2 yards)

• 7 yards woven cotton solid, stripe, check or period appropriate print at $1 - $2 per yard
  This will make a work dress (JoAnn Fabrics or Wal-Mart, sale rack. Not everything they have is appropriate, but I've yet to walk out of Wal-Mart empty handed when fabric shopping. When in doubt, pick a small check or solid color cotton fabric in a "reasonable" hue.)

• 3 yards woven cotton solid, stripe, check or period appropriate print at $1 - $2 per yard
  This will make a waist apron or pinner apron (JoAnn Fabrics or Wal-Mart, sale rack)

• 2 yards woven cotton solid, stripe, check or period appropriate print at $1 - $2 per yard
  For a slatted or corded sun bonnet (JoAnn Fabrics or Wal-Mart, sale rack)

• 1 pair ankle high boots in brown or black, usually $15 (either PayLess Shoe Source or Wal-Mart) or $5 at Goodwill/second hand store. You want plain (undecorated), relatively square toe, smooth sole, and small heel, 1" or less.  f possible, try not to have the "speed lace" type hooks.

• 1 pair black cotton stockings $6.50 (available at sutlers)

• 1 Period appropriate pattern from Simplicity, McCall’s, Butterick $.99 - $1.99(available from JoAnn Fabric or Hancock Fabric, both have sales on one of them every week, just keep an eye on their sales to catch them)

• 1 2/3 yards solid, check or stripe wool for shawl $4.50 - $10.00 (check remnant bins)

• 1 reproduction brooch from Abraham's Lady: $5

• 1 small carrying basket (craft store) $5

• 1 white ironstone plate $1 (thrift store)

• 1 set silver plate eating utensils in period appropriate plain pattern $3 (thrift store)

• 1 teacup $3 (thrift store)
• 1 pair white gloves $5 at sutlers

Most of the information for this post came from http://cwciv.tripod.com/WClothes/Budget.html written by Luann Mason

Reenactment Clothing and Hair Guidelines

These are the recommendations to appear period correct but not required. The Civilian Advisor will help you with your clothing and the crew does have dresses for you to borrow.

Hair: 

Medium or long hair must be parted down the center and controlled low at the back of the head.
Short hair must be parted down the center kept controlled to hide bangs.
Fake hair or wigs can be used as long as they are in good taste and the same hair color as your hair.
If you color your hair, keep the roots the same color as the rest of your hair please.

The Civilian Advisor will help you with your hair to find an appropriate hairstyle.

Head Covering:

A bonnet or hat should be worn at reenactments, unless you do not own one and are not able to borrow one. This is not only for period impression, but it will also protect you from a nasty sunburn. A straw hat will also work if it is in a period style. These can sometimes be found a resale shops, just do your research before you go.

Hats/Bonnets do not have to be worn at balls or period dances. (Most women prefer to wear their hair styled with ribbons, flowers, or jewels in their hair for dances.)

If no Hat/Bonnet is available to you, a Snood or hairnet may be worn as long as it is in good taste. (Either brown or black, or a color matching your dress, no neon colors please.)

Undergarments/Underpinnings:

(They're called "foundation" garments for a reason!)

Don’t worry about the things you do not have. You can make do with other things.

Chemise - Necessary when you are wearing a corset. It will protect your corset and dress from you and you from your corset. Trust us, corsets tend to rub if you are not wearing a Chemise. For this layer I recommend your regular under garments and a light weight tank top/t-shirt, depending on the weather. You will want something to wear to cover yourself if you need to ask for help zipping or buttoning the back of your dress.

Split crotch drawers or Bloomers/ Pantalets -. For both modesty and convenience. (Remember, if your hoop tilts up, everyone will see your modern day underwear/thong. Bloomers keep them hidden for your own privacy. Split drawers recommended to make using the bathroom easier- Don't have to untie and pull down.)For this layer you can use comfortable shorts. For cooler weather fleece night pants.

Corset - RECOMMENDED. It is obvious when you are not wearing one. Although not required, you will find that most Historically Correct Period patterns are fitted to a corset and thus would look funny (and not fit properly) if you were not wearing a corset underneath. This is a moderately expensive item. In our crew you are allowed to use your regular under garments.

Also, we do not require you to "suck it in" as they did in the Civil War. This is the 21st century, give yourself breathing room! 

Therapy note: Corsets have been known to provide back support for women who have bad backs, especially lower backs. Recommended: A corset that is long enough to come down over your hips. This prevents boning from digging into your thighs and stomach when seated and also provides better back support as well as slimming the waist for those of us who wish to look a bit thinner!

Hoopskirt - REQUIRED!!!  This is what gives the Civil War Era southern belle her bell shape! These can usually be found at Goodwill. The crew does have some that you can borrow.

The only exception to this is when wearing a campdress/workdress where hoops are not recommended for working/cooking around the camp fire.

Keep hoops about 6" above the ground to prevent tripping over your hem.  

90" to 115" circumference is a reasonable size range for most women. (5 or 6 boned-hoop for average women. 4 boned if you are under 5 1/2 feet tall) 

When worn, an Under petticoat is OPTIONAL and bloomers/pantalets are highly recommended. (If you have split-crotch drawers, you will definately want an Under petticoat!)  

At least one Over petticoat over a hoop is required to mask the lines of the hoop (or for flouncing/ruffles to be sewn over the bones so they don't show through your skirt) Either one is permitted.

 Corded petticoats - OPTIONAL. Made of heavy cotton muslin or duct canvas and rope. An alternative to hoops for working impressions.

Thigh High Stockings - REQUIRED. Plain white, black, or other solid color. Striped stockings of a very narrow stripe are acceptable or a fashionable young lady or child. Black Trouser socks can be used for stockings.

Being as we are out in a field where horses, cannons, and infantrymen are kicking up dust and dirt, we HIGHLY recommend getting black stockings so as to hide the dirt and making washing easier.  Stockings are thicker than pantyhose and do not tear as easily, but do allow your legs to breath, unlike socks. Please do not wear modern pantyhose. Stockings will prevent your shoes from rubbing blisters onto your feet!

Stocking bands  or Garters are also recommended to hold the stocking in place on your leg so you are not constantly pulling your stockings up all day long. If you choose to wear stockings.

Socks are recommended for late fall and winter reenactments since they are warmer.

Dresses

The crew has several dresses you may borrow. We do not promise anything fancy but it will be period correct.

These are the recommendations if you choose to find you own dress.

One-piece dresses or Bodices and Skirts are REQUIRED. We recommend the two piece as it is easier to get dressed into and allows a bit more movement when worn. Also allowed: white blouses with jackets, vests, tea bodices, swiss bodices, zouve jackets, etc. with skirt.

Dresses should be well fitted and made of a period appropriate pattern and style.

 A narrow white collar is RECOMMENDED. A detachable collar that will fit all your dress bodices is a good idea. If you are a lace-hound and enjoy shopping for collars, feel free to put an attached collar on each dress. Collars are usually white, but ecru/cream colored are also allowed.  Black is for mourning.

Low necklines should be reserved for night balls and period dances only.

Women were supposed to be modest during the daytime. Showing cleavage at anytime is not acceptable. Please use good sense. We want to look like respectable women and reenactors, not General Hooker's hookers. (Unless you are portraying a hooker or can-can girl)

Avoid obvious synthetic fabrics and trims. (No nylon, rayon, spandex.) Recommend: 100% Cotton, Cotton Muslin, Polished Cotton, 80% Cotton-20% Polyester, 100% Wool, Chiffon, Taffeta, Jaquarde, Silk, Velvet, Satin.

Zippers are NOT recommended. Buttons, Hooks 'n Eyes and Snaps are a better way to appear Period Correct.

FOOTWEAR

Reproduction shoes or Granny boots are RECOMMENDED. These can be purchased on eBay, from Sutlers, or other reenactors. Goodwill is a good place to find shoes that will work. Black leather or fake leather is recommended. No polished black shoes.Your shoes must lace up (no velcro) and should come to just above the ankle. Remember you will be walking around in these shoes all day long and probably wearing the same shoes to the ball/dance as well. You should select black boots or shoes with very low heels and low, blunt toes. For the ball black flats or Mary Janes that fit your foot well can be worn. Make sure they are comfortable to walk or stand in for long periods of time.

Also Recommended: Shoe padding or arch supports. A couple layers in the bottom of your shoe can save your feet and ward off backpain. 

No speed laces, thick hiking boots, modern sports/tennis shoes or canvas shoes please. We do not want anything that screams "21st century."

Bare feet are not recommend as there are sharp objects sometimes found in the fields. A current Tetnus Shot IS recommended before attending events.

Accessories (Optional)

Parasols- black or white acceptable. No Battenberg Lace- Battenberg came out in 1901!

Gloves- Full gloves for dances are allowed, netted mitts or hand gloves are acceptable for tea parties and church services.

Hankies. You need them, lots of them, as they are one of the most useful tools of a lady. Wave good-bye to your soldier boy and then wipe that tear. You can "blood" stain them with blackberry give it to your soldier for stanching his wounds. Test for gentlemen around you by dropping your hankie. Nice plain white linen hankies, hankies with white lace or tatting, or if you are in mourning a one inch black edging. They are cheap; get lots and share with your friends.

Aprons- Pinner or waist style are acceptable. Recommended if you are doing a lot of cooking around the campfire as aprons often serve as a hot-mitt for removing pots from the campfire grill.

Shawls- Highly recommended for all weather. Decorative ones for balls/dances, shopping.. Plain woven, woolen, knitted or crocheted ones for campfire or for warmth. Knitted or crochet "sontags" are also appropriate for warmth.

Mantles, paletots, saques, cloaks, and capes are appropriate for cool and cold weather.

Jewelry can be had at very good prices. Mostly reproduction pieces, but who wants to loose some valuable antique at a reenactment? The most important advice of course is do some research. Brooches in cameo, jet, obsidian or locket style are often seen. Decorative chains can be made into chatelaines. Bracelets, earrings and necklaces are a bit harder to find but they are out there. Read as much as you can about the topic before you shop.

Market woven basket- RECOMMENDED. Great for carrying things you buy at the Sutlers and for carrying water with you to drink! Can also hide your camera, wallet, and car keys under a hankerchief in the basket!

Around Camp

The crew has tents for us to use. The way our company is usually set up the girls are seperated from the boys with the cook on one end and the Civilian Advisor (female) on the other.

Chair or Stool

An antique-looking wooden folding or ladder-back chair can come in handy while sitting about camp, attending a talk or tea, or at the battle. You may also purchase a cloth covered wooden folding stool. Having something to sit on is highly recommended.

Lighting

Even though it is not period, consider bringing a very small flashlight to use for the midnight trips to the portajohn or to locate that extra blanket in the middle of the night. You may also purchase a candle lantern or candlestick. 

Food and Food Storage

We have a company cook, and what a great cook he is! However, help is always welcome.If you need special foods because of diet rescrictions please let the crew advisor know.If you chose to bring food as a snack please make sure that if it is seen outside you tent it is period appropriate (no modern wrapping, in period looking containers, muslin bags, or plain paper wrapping.) If you bring a cooler, make provisions to keep it hidden in a wooden box or under a quilt or other fabric covering. Beverages should be drunk only from period looking cups, mugs, while you are in period clothing.

Water

Reenactments can be very hot, and you may not always be near good water, particularly when waiting for a battle to start. Bring a water gourd, historic looking bottle or jug (cork or porcelain stopper), or a Civil War reproduction canteen. Most sites provide water in large moveable tanks called water buffaloes.If you have any susceptibility to water-borne infections, you may want to bring your water container full of water from home, and bring an extra jug that can be hidden in the tent.

The NO NO List

NO makeup (other than a little rouge for your lips and powder for your face.)

NO nail polish (did not have this in the 1860's)

NO modern glasses (did not have this in the 1860's) Contact lenses can be worn. Period glasses with your prescription are highly recommended. This No No can be over looked if they are your only pair of glasses.

NO sunglasses (did not have this in the 1860's) Sunglasses were rare in this Era and usually meant the wearer either had Syphallis, elderly (had “weak eyes”) or was blind.

NO wristwatches (did not have this in the 1860's) Pocket watches on chains are RECOMMENDED though.

NO MODERN ITEMS VISABLE- (This is important as we are trying to portray an Era from 150 years ago and Spectators do not wish to see someone in Period Dress and wearing sunglasses, a ballcap, a pair of Nikes and talking on a cell phone.)

Women's Clothing History

Women wore about 7 layers of clothing under their dress everyday.  And YES, women really did wear as many as 8 layers even in the hot, muggy, Southern weather! This is Just a History not what is expected of you.

UNDERPINNINGS:

The 1st layer would be their Bloomers or Pantalets, which were a light-weight pair of pants made of cotton that would come below the knee or to the ankle, depending on which they were wearing.  Normally, a younger lady (under 16) would wear those that would go to the knee, the more mature and older women would wear them longer, to the ankles.  Named after "Amelia Bloomer", they were baggy trousers which gathered at the ankle, and were worn under a calf-length dress.  Bloomers were most popular in the 1860s. Drawers (sometimes mistaken for Bloomers,) were made of a thicker cotton or wool and were usually worn in the wintertime.


Layer 1 & 2: Pantalets and Chemise

Layer 1 & 2: Pantalets and Chemise

The 2nd layer would be the Chemise, sometimes also referred to as a Shimmy. This was nothing more than a cotton night gown that would be worn under the corset to keep it from becoming soiled by bodily oils and from pinching the lady. It also provided modest covering for a lady's true body form when a corset was not worn, such as at bedtime.

The 3rd layer was the Corset. They were not used to get the very thin waistline, or to give a woman a busty boost (this idea of thin-waist fashion came in the late 1800's.)  Corsets were simply designed so that it would give a smooth line from the waist to the bust of the woman and to support the many layers of hoopskirt, petticoats, and day skirts worn by the lady.  Corsets were constructed of whale bone (hence the term corset boning) or steam-pressed wood sewn into cotton panels.  There were hook and eye clasps or metal busks on the front and it laced up in the back. The corset originated in France and spread throughout Europe and the United States. Modern corsets are made with metal busks still, but mostly use metal or plastic boning. Also called a Stay, the corset was considered to be the most essential item of a Victorian woman's clothing.  Laced tightly, the undergarment gave women a fashionably small waistline.

Layer 3: Corset

The 4th layer was the Under Petticoat, normally white, that was made of cotton. It was worn under the hoop skirt (hence the term under petticoat) to keep it from getting dust and dirt blown up under it and was worn to preserve modesty. The drawers/pantelets were split (for easier nightjar/out-house use) and any tilt of the hoop or gust of wind could reveal more than she might wish to be seen! A petticoat also provided extra warmth in the winter.

Layer 4: Under Petticoat

The 5th layer was the Hoop Skirt. Hoop skirts were sometimes made of whale bone sewn into cotton, but were mainly constructed out of steel covered by cotton, making a simple caged crinoline. Some were also made of cotton rope or hemp rope sewn into cotton panels (known as Corded Petticoats).This is what gave the southern belles their bell-shape. Reproduction hoops for reenacting are made of steel or plastic and have more "give" to them as they are more flexible going through tight doorways than whalebone was.

Layer 5: Hoop Skirt (or Corded Petticoat)

The 6th layer would have been the Corset Cover or Camisole was made of cotton. It prevented the color of the dress from rubbing or fading onto the corset. Corsets were very hard to launder, so they tried their best not to get anything on them by wearing a corset cover. Some corset covers were just as long as a chemise, but others were merely to the waistline, long enough to cover the corset only.

The 7th layer was the Over Petticoats. They were worn over the hoop skirt (hence the term over petticoat.) Normally, during the spring and summer a woman would only wear one or two of them. This was done to hide the "hoops" in her hoop skirt so they would give her day skirt a smoother appearance. The purpose was to cover the hoop skirt so that the "hoops" wouldn't show through It also prevented the "hoops" from getting rust on the lady's day skirt should she be caught out in the rain by accident!  During the Fall and Winter months, a lady would wear anywhere from 4 to 5 petticoats at a time for warmth.

Layer 6 & 7: Over Petticoat and Corset Cover

Layer 6 & 7: Over Petticoat and Corset Cover

OUTERWEAR:

Layer 8:  Finally the Blouse or Day Bodice and the actual Day Skirt.

The difference between a blouse and a bodice is that a bodice would fit snugly to the lady, the blouse was loose fitting. Different skirts were worn for many reasons. A lady would have a work dress or skirt, to work in around the house. There was no sense in messing up a perfectly good dress just for cleaning. She would also have clothes she would wear around the house, saving her much nicer things for times when she would go to a friend’s house for visiting calls, into town, social events, dances, carriage rides, tea time, special holiday meals, etc.

If the weather was cold, she would add Petticoats under her skirt for warmth and wear a Shawl, Cape, or Wool Coat over her dress. 

A lady wore either a Bonnet, Straw Hat, or Ladie's Hat when outdoors. This was a decree ordered by the Roman Catholic Church during medieval times that a woman's head must be covered when outside or in Mass (church service). Even though the Church split between Roman Catholics and Protestants several centuries earlier, ladie's were still required to wear a hat to cover their hair during the Victorian Era. Fashion came from France mostly, and France is a Catholic country. Due to the difficult upkeep of Victorian hairstyles and having to pin a hat to one's head, ladies were NOT required to remove their hats when entering Churches, office buildings, stores, or a private home, while men were required out of politeness and respect to remove their hats. This tradition of a lady's hat remaining on her head has followed us through to current times where ladies are still not required to remove their hats, even when the National Anthem is played or US Flags are present.

On Market Day, a lady would also wear an Apron or a  Pinafore, also know as a Pinner Apron. An apron tied around the waist, while a pinafore hung from the shoulders (pinned with apron pins, hence the name Pinner) and actually covered most of the dress. This protected the lady's dress when she approached dusty market booths full of fruits, vegetables, meats, and street dust kicked up from passing carriages and buggies.

Layer 8: Day Bodice and Day Skirt

 GLOVES:

Fashion etiquette mandated that women wear gloves when they went out in public--typically, white tight-fitting kidskin gloves that were fastened buttons, or wrist gloves that at least covered the hands.   

Gloves were not only worn by women, but by gentlemen as well. The reason was not for appearance (good looks), but rather to keep the natural oils produced by human skin from contacting and soiling the dresses and suits. Clothing was expensive and very difficult to wash, so all efforts were made to keep clothing clean. Gentlemen usually carried 2 or 3 pair of gloves with them, should they dirty a pair with horse reins or before supper.

HAIRSTYLES:

In public, it may be worn down, but must be confined. Loose hair, straggling fly-aways, and frizzies were not worn by a well-dress lady. REMEMBER: All styles had two things in common, (1) the hair was parted down the middle and (2) no bangs.

The most popular "do" of the day was to part the hair down the center and arrange it so the widest part of the style is at the ears and the remainder extends down the back of the head to about the hairline.

A variation of this style that was popular with younger women (15 - 40) is to confine the hair at the nap of the neck in a chignon wide-bun or with a snood / hairnet.

Also popular:

Ringlets - ages 15 - 40 (especially for balls and dances)
Shorter, blunt haircuts were popular with 15 - 22 year olds.

Clothing

Whether you have already selected a role that interests you and you're ready to get started or you don’t know what you want to do yet, the place to start is with yourself!  Nothing will give more credibility and realism to your role than your personal outfit/dress.   

Get your basic garments together and don't try to do it all at once.  Beginners can reenact effectively with just a dress, petticoat, and pair of boots.  Add the rest as your impression calls for them, you can afford them or as you find them.

Some Ideas for Civilian Living History

Wives and Mothers,  Sweethearts and Sisters
This was the role of most women in the 1860's, although this would not preclude you from doing any of the other roles. Remember, Harriet Beecher Stowe was a wife, mother, sister and daughter as well as a best selling author.

Here are a few of the activities that kept women busy on the home front:

• Reading the latest news, the bible, a period correct book or a letter from camp .
• Writing letters or in a journal. Singing. Visiting.
• Sewing, knitting, mending, quilting: working on your own or your children's' clothing.
• War effort work: rolling bandages, scraping lint for bandages. Knitting socks, making or mending uniforms, making quilt blocks, making bedroll quilts or ticking for the soldiers.
• Tending to the children: playing games with them, teaching them to read and write, teaching sewing skills. The heart rending care of the newly orphaned.

Farmers Daughter   In addition to all of the above, a farmer daughter could bring baskets of vegetables for sale. She could take baskets of produce, eggs and butter to the camps or camp cooks, selling them to help support her family. This would be a good role if you have, or know someone with a large garden. Preparing food is always interesting. People respond well when they see you cutting up vegetables and making stew. Someone may like to try baking bread or biscuits.

Town Women can include:  post mistress, news paper editor, shop keepers, factory worker, public speaker on social issues and reform, laundress, seamstress, abolitionist, slave, escaped slave, freeman, Southern refugee, feminist, actress, chanteuse, phrenologist, town gossip, busybody, local character, grieving widows, society matron, social belle or ladies of the upper classes exhibiting their skills in watercolors or fine needlework.

Charity Organizations
Women's Central Association of Relief, Relief societies specific to a state or ethnic group,
U.S. Christian Commission, US Sanitary Commission, Ladies Loyalty League, Soldier's Aid Society

Religious
Religion was a very important part of life in the 1860’s.  Portrayals of religious people would be a good addition to our living history.  Quaker and other pacifist, Bible Tract Society Member,  Minister,   Nun (who could also be nurses)

Military
Hospital matron, nurse, spy, daughter of the regiment, cook, laundress, soldier in disguise, telegrapher.

Political
Anti war activist, copperhead, democrat, agitator, Southern sympathizer, Northern sympathizer, feminist, abolitionist.

So you see, there are many roles to choose from and bring to life. But you must do the research necessary to give a true representation of the persona you select.

Being a Civilian

First off, quick notes- We are re-enacting the American Civil War, not the wild west. The Civil War (1861-1865) is known as the middle of the Victorian Era (1830-1901). When choosing a character or role, please keep the era in mind in regards to fashion, cloth patterns, mannerisms, and etiquette.  Re-enacting is a hobby, but also an historical presentation to the public. We want to try to be as accurate as we can be, but while having a good time involving family and friends.

Women and young ladies can portray refugees, nurses, laundresses, cooks, seamstresses, wives or sweethearts visiting their men folk in the army. Women can also go as spies, vivandieres, or disguise themselves as male soldiers in the ranks. It is just as important for us to portray civilian roles authentically as it is the military roles, so correct period dress will be equally important. You will want to dress your role. For example a refugee would not dress the same as a nurse or as a women visiting camp. To give those of you that aren’t sure what you want to do yet, a role to start with, I portray a refugee(the short version). The dresses that the crew has for you to borrow will fit into this impression.

Civil War refugees are not necessarily poor or shabbily dressed. They would have been as well dressed as possible. Refugees have left home for one reason or another; it could be that their house was burned, they were running before troops got there, or they were seeking protection.

The rest of this handbook is merely a guideline.  Most of history and re-enacting activities cannot be put in this handbook, but must be taught as a unit and as a way of life.

In my research I have found 5 tips for a beginning civilian reenactor

1.       Find a mentor…you already have that covered by joining our crew! Until you decide a direction you want to take you can watch and be incorporated into others portrayal for a few events. This is an easy way to learn the ropes.

2.       Keep it simple and straight forward… Before you spend money on clothing and gear, go to a couple of events in a simple role.

3.       Portray What You Know...If you have a skill you enjoy and would like to share with others, check out its history in connection to the Civil War. Do you like to knit? Knitting played a very important part as the ladies of the home front kept their needles busy to supply warm socks and gloves to their sons in the army. Many of today's children have never seen anyone knit. This persona would teach them that once upon a time socks did not come from Wal-Mart. This tip applies to everything from blacksmithing to quilting.

4.       Do Lots of Research...How can you live history if you don’t know it. Research is a treasure hunt. It's your job to dig up the gold that you will use to create your persona. Sure you can put on a slat bonnet, grab a basket and be a farmers daughter; but think how much more you can teach people if you can talk about farm animals, crops, the effects of the weather, the effects of insects on your crops, the effects of the economic times on your farm income. How much milk does it take to make a pound of butter? How much will that pound of butter sell for? How do you get that pound of butter to market? How do you keep it fresh without a refrigerator? How does a butter churn work and what is a butter mold? Do you get to keep the butter and egg money for yourself or does your skinflint father take it from you? The more background information you have on the character you portray, the more realistic and three-dimensional you will become in your role.

5.        Read About Social History...Many long time re-enactors are quick to make remarks that are stereotypical rather than true. A woman was not an old maid if she was unmarried at 18. Not everyone had or wanted a 17" waist. Not everyone was religious. Most people were literate and with much better vocabularies than we use today. Most women worked, farm, factory or cottage industry. People with slaves or servants were a minority of the population. The North/South was not a united front. Many Northerners did not support the war and worked to further the Southern cause. Not every Northerner supported or liked President Lincoln. Not every Southerner supported the Confederacy and were Northern sympathizers.  Sam Houston was even against Texas secession. Don't present your persona in a vacuum. Learn some of the social background of the mid Victorian era.

The goal of the living historian is to make the visitors feel as if they stepped back in time to the early 1860's, to do our best to give an immersion experience. In other words, to give the visitor (as well as ourselves) the feeling of connecting with their past in such a way they have never encountered...almost a time-travel experience for all involved.

The first and most basic step in completing this immersion excursion is to be vigilant in the accuracy of your appearance - clothing as well as your setting. If one does not look authentic, everything else is for naught. Remember, you yourself constitute a vital element of this atmosphere. You must do your utmost to ensure that your appearance, actions/mannerisms, and manner of speaking evokes the past. This tells so much of the story.

As for the site in which we are presenting ourselves as one from the past, we must remove those things that remind folks of the 21st century, whether the items are upon our person or within our site. This vigilance allows living historians to maintain the appropriate appearance for the era they represent, in this case, the early 1860's. One can do this in numerous ways, the most effective being to learn what is appropriate and what is not, not only in appearance but also in mannerisms. Later in this handbook you will find a copy of the period etiquette rules you will need the most. Remove non-period items from the visitor's (and your own) sight. Step to the edge of your site and look around. Do you see anything that might be considered farby? If so, how can you hide or disguise it? Sometimes it can be done as simply as covering a cooler with a cloth. The crew does a pretty good job of maintaining our site for visitors, however it takes everyone’s  vigilance. If you see something that looks out of place hide it. If your not sure if it should be there ask someone, we all forget to cover things up at times.

That your site can give the resemblance as if it's from 1860 is not enough, however. One must also pay attention to what is beyond the appearance of the reenactor's camp area. We must do our best, as difficult as this can be, to make sure the five senses (sight, sound, smell, touch, taste) of both living historian and spectator also give the impression that they are from the past. What could be worse to a living historian than having their cell phone go off while speaking to visitors...in 1st person?? Turn the phones off, or at least put them on silent or vibrate to be viewed when the opportunity arises. I have seen first hand this happen, much to the embarrassment of the reenactor. If the inside of your tent is filled with farby items then make sure you tie the opening flaps closed to ensure no unwanted visitors enter - also, be aware that when you enter "the farb zone" that the visitor's vision is out of line with the entrance way. They should never be aware of our modern, behind the scenes "support." If you need something from your cooler, use a code word. For instance, folks during the time in which we emulate had cellars. What did they keep in their cellars? Pretty much the same type of items we keep in our coolers. So, instead of going to your cooler, you are now going to your "cellar." How about that all-important item you left in your car or van that you must retrieve? "I will be back shortly," says I. "I must go to my carriage to get my...(whatever it is you need)."

Pretty simple.

Think of the movie "Somewhere in Time:" remember how things went pretty well (considering) for Richard in his time-travel excursion back to 1912? That is, until, unexpectedly, he pulled out a 1979 penny from his pocket, and that one little farb moment totally ruined all he had worked toward to meet this woman of 60 years earlier...and he found himself, beyond his control, hurdled back to his own time.

There are, of course, exceptions to all of this. Besides our own enjoyment, we are also there for the public, to hopefully teach them history as best as our own knowledge will allow. One excellent way to do this is to incorporate a combination of 1st person and a 3rd person ideology, where, without stepping out of your 1863 zone, you can answer any questions a visitor may have, or even easily explain your impression. After all, we don't want to scare folks away either. If you're not sure what is appropriate to say, do not be afraid to pass along the visitor to a reenactor who might answer the question in the appropriate manner. Then observe...watching and studying others is the very best way to learn this process - - this takes practice and I suggest you do just this: practice, practice, practice.
So, ask yourself a few questions for your living history/time-travel excursion: which of the five senses fit appropriately into your 1860's presentation? The sights, sounds, smells, touch, and, yes, even taste? Which don't? Are all farby items properly hidden? How do you carry yourself? Do you sound appropriate? Do you look and act like you belong? This mindset can help you maintain the period ambiance of your site.

Of course, there are some things we cannot control: an airplane flying overhead, sometimes modern vehicles rumbling by, or any number of 21st century intrusions. One must learn to overlook and ignore such distractions and carry on as if they weren't there. Again, not always easy, but necessary. And for the visitor (for most of our events take place where the public enjoy roaming about and asking questions), remember when you were once the one roaming and asking questions. Did you feel you were welcomed into the reenactor's camp site? Did they willingly answer your questions? Or did you feel like you were intruding? As a reenactor, do you treat the visitor how you would like to be treated? Do you answer the questions happily or do you come off like the visitor is bothersome? If a visitor is uncertain about entering your site, do you call them over or do you ignore them, hoping they'll go away? As a crew we want to make the visitors feel welcome, answer their questions and include them in our presentations. By doing this we are sharing our interest in History and may spark an interest in reenacting in someone that will someday become a member of our crew.

As living historians, the last thing we should ever do is to turn folks off of history. It should be our goal to turn folks on to history, in a friendly, fun, and accurate way.

What to Expect on a Reenactment Weekend

Friday night will start at Capt. Glass's house where most of us gather to load the trailer and discuss directions, if we are going to stop to eat and where. I suggest bringing extra money for the trip there and back. Depending on how far away the reenactment is determines if and when we will stop the farther away we go we usually stop. I suggest around $20 that will cover eats both ways.

When we arrive at the reenactment grounds we will register then go to set up camp. First the tents are set up, everyone helps set up all the tents then we get our stuff to put in the tents. The tents are set up in rows, the girls are sectioned off from the guys by having the cook on one end and the female advisor on the other. This is due to BSA Youth Protection rules. The cars are usually left in camp until the next morning when they have to be moved to reenactor parking. I have found that what works best for me is to pack everything I will need for Friday night in one place; sleeping clothes, flashlight, etc. It will usually be late when we finally get to bed and having everything you need in one place is easier than having to search for stuff. The first thing you want to do is stretch out your ground cloth. Then put your bed roll in place and arrange your tent. If the cars are left in camp, you can leave some of your gear in the car until morning. At registration you will most likely be given an event schedule take time Friday night to review it. At one reenactment civilians are required to attend a meeting bright and early Saturday morning. Things that are usually on the schedule include: ladies tea, battle, any meals provided, dance, church service, demonstrations, etc.

The first thing every morning our First Sergeant with give the command "First Call" that means that we are to wake up and get ready for the day. I have learned the hard way that I need to keep an ear on what is going on as I get ready so that I don't miss breakfast. Since breakfast usually occurs before the public arrive you don't have to be fully ready for the day at breakfast. Usually around 9 o'clock is when the gates open to the public as long as everything outside the tent is period correct you can be in your tent continuing to get ready if you need extra time. Sometimes it will take alittle longer to get ready. On Sunday you will need to have as much as possible ready to leave before the battle. As soon as the soldiers get back from the battle we start breaking camp. They will usually leave the girls tents for last to give us the opportunity to change. This is were having clothes on under your dress helps because then you can just pull off your dress and get things packed up. I suggest a tank top that you can then put a shirt over and pull your pants on before you take off your dress. We liked to get out of camp and on the road home as soon as possible.

The things that civilians usually do around camp are help the cook, mend uniforms, and answer spectators questions. Don't worry about not knowing how to do something, we will help you. Spectators ask all kinds of questions, don't worry about getting asked something you don't know. If you don't know, tell them and direct them to someone that would know. But you will find that after a few reenactments that you will start to learning more and more just by listening to the others answer questions. I like to write the questions down at the end of the night to research later so that I will know the answer next time. You will find that by being able to answer some of the spectators questions and engage them in a conversation it will add to your fun. As a civilian group we will decide on some other activities to do while in camp. This will give us some activity to do/demonstrate for the spectators. Some activities are sewing, crochet/knit, quilting, giving a speech, everyday period activities. 

Items Needed and Basic Rules

We will be sleeping in A-Frame tents, without floors, please make sure you have something to put under your bed roll (I found that a clear plastic 9 x 12 painters tarp makes an excellent floor) . Please make sure that your bed roll is warm enough as it might get cold during the night.


You will need to bring a bed roll (sleeping bag/blankets, a cot if you would like, and pillows), ground cloth, toiletries, canteen, a metal cup (if you have one, a non breakable mug otherwise), and extra money if you would like to visit the sutlers. For clothing you will need to bring: a t-shirt/tank top to wear under your dress, shorts/pants (depending on the weather) to wear under your skirt, black or dark colored shoes (you may get these dirty), and sleeping clothes. Also please bring a white long sleeve, button down shirt to wear if you need to wear one of the skirts. You will also need a hat, look at the clothing guidelines for suggestions. You will find that a small reticule(purse) or market basket to carry your items. If you have anything that would be considered “period correct” you may bring it and wear it but you are responsible for it.


As civilians we do not do everything that the Troopers (soldiers) will be doing, like drilling, marching, cleaning guns. However, we do have to follow the same rules. Some of these rules are non-negotiable due to BSA Youth Protection rules. Some of the rules are designed to make sure everyone feels comfortable in the group.

1. No entering the domiciles (tents, cabins, rooms, etc.) of the opposite gender.
2. Always let an advisor know when you are leaving camp. This is both courteous and for safety.
3. No public display of affection. This includes kissing, hugging, and hand holding.
4. The buddy system will be used at all times during Crew activities.
5. Use the buddy system when leaving camp, buddies must be of the same gender.
6. No leaving camp after “lights out”.
7. Civilians may not carry firearms/weapons of any kind.
8. Do not interrupt another reenactor while he/she is doing a first person impression. Do not heckle or call out corrections. (Constructive criticism is welcome but not in front of the public!)
9. When something is unsafe/dangerous to spectators or other reenactors, speak up!
10. Keep the camp authentic and hide all non period items such as coolers.
11. If you visit another unit, always ask and receive permission before you enter a tent or touch someone else’s belongings.
12. Take your turn getting firewood, water or other camp chore.
13. Always assist in packing the company items. The entire company used them, after all.
14. Always clean the area where the camp was. Leave it cleaner then when you arrived.
15. Follow the rules of Leave No Trace when outdoors.
16. Be courteous to your fellow Venturers.
17. As minimum, the Crew will abide by rules, regulations, and policies of the Boy Scouts of America.
18. Remember, above all else, we are ladies and will conduct ourselves accordingly.

There will be plenty of time to socialize with those that are portraying soldiers. However, when they are under the direction of the officers we are to leave them alone. When they are in camp they have duties to tend to. When they are finished they may socialize. We need to respect our soldiers and officers to make sure that we all have a great experience.

Minimum Requirements for First Person Impression: The reenactor is expected to do or say nothing that would distract others from performing or participating in first person activities. We are not asking for a certain level of participation, although we encourage you to do so. All we desire is for reenactors to refrain from being a distraction for those are participating in first person (i.e., never let your own good time spoil someone else's moment).  Avoid discussing the following:

1. Reenactor politics
2. Current events
3. Modern sports
4. The Internet
5. Where you bought the latest "cool" acquisition to your reenactment wardrobe
6. The "farbs" you saw earlier today
7. Any other modern topics

Introduction to Crew 1872

Welcome to Venture Crew 1872, Ladies! We are glad that you are joining us.

I have created this blog to share with you information I have gather through research and things I have learned by experience. I am hoping that by sharing this information with you it will answer some of the questions you might have and guide you along to having a great experience living history with us. Posts I intend to included in this blog are: information on Reenacting on a Budget,  Selecting a  persona (the character you portray, if you wish), 1860 Etiquette, the Language of the Fan, The Language of Flowers, Dance steps for the Waltz, plus a copy of the Crew Handbook, information on the Venture program, Venture awards  and more.

As a Female you have several choices. You may participate as a Union soldier (there were women who hid their identity and served) the entire weekend, participate as a civilian, or participate as soldier during the day and dress as a civilian lady for the dance. It is your choice. We have dresses you may borrow for the weekend.We are not promising that the dress will be fancy but it will be authentic. We currently have 3 dresses and 2 skirts. As a civilian you will have more free time but will be asked to help out around the camp.

Our crew portrays the 4^th U.S. Cavalry during the Civil War. This means we are Union.  At most of the reenactments we attend we are one of the only true Union units.  A Brief history of the 4^th U.S. is in the Crew handbook.

One of the posts I will be adding is a copy of the Crew handbook. Unless you chose to portray a solider, most of what you will need to know from the crew handbook is the Crew Oath, Crest,  Motto & the Basic Reenacting Safety Guidelines. Look over everything else. As civilians we won’t need to know the rest by heart but it will help you understand what is going on and answer questions. Pay particular attention to the Crew Recognition, Coed members have the option to pursue Victorian(civilian) interests as well. As a member of a Venture crew you also have the opportunity to work toward the Venturing Bronze, Gold, and Silver awards.

We hope we can be of service to you towards making your re-enacting hobby all it can be and more! We are family-oriented with the goal of preserving history. Please feel free to ask questions the Civilian Advisor (Mrs. Barber) or Unit Advisor (Captain Glass) regarding anything you need. See you on the field and in camp! You will learn a great deal from the unit members about the Civil War era and early Victorians.  Keeping an open mind and being open to suggestions will make your re-enacting experience more enjoyable. 



Our Crew in Nov 2009