What is Civil War Reenacting?
American Civil War reenacting is a unique and fascinating hobby shared
by thousands of
people throughout the United States, Canada, and Northern Europe.
Reenacting is in itself a re-creation of one of many individuals who
may have been a civilian, soldier, hero, criminal, musician, surgeon,
nurse, or clergy during the Civil War.
Civil War reenacting is also a re-creation of an event that took place
such as a wedding, dance, execution, funerals, mail call, drill, tacticals,
and battles.
Members of the 20th Massachusetts portray soldiers in camp life
which includes cooking, eating, chopping wood, maintaining accouterments,
living quarters, and speaking to the public. We also participate in
military drills, tacticals and battle reenactments. New members do
not have to be experienced reenactors. They will be under the supervision of company
officers to show them how a civil war soldier lived 140 years ago.
Who are the people that are Reenactors?
The people who are reenactors are not professional actors or actresses.
Reenactors are people from all walks of life that have an interest
in American History, and the Civil War. People who become reenactors
come heavily armed with curiosity, and it is their curiosity that
draws them into the 19th century. Learning about a divided America
and its people who suffered and endured the loss of over 600,000 fathers
and sons in one of the most tragic times in American History.
How do you become a Reenactor with the 20th Massachusetts
? If you are concidering on becoming a reenactor with the
20th Massachusetts visit our Joining
the 20th web page to conctact us. We will send you The Recruiting
Package which includes an application for membership. We encourage
potential members to attend a company meeting, or reenactment before
filling out an application for membership. This gives you a chance
to meet the members of the 20th Massachusetts to ask questions,
so that you can make a sound decision if American Civil War reenacting
is right for you and your family.
Where do I purchase a uniform, equipment, or 19th century civilian
clothes?
In your recruiting package you will find Uniform, and Equipment, List
for New Recruits, and the 20th Massachusetts Sutler List. This
information gives a detailed list on what you will need to reenact
as a Union Soldier. The 20th Massachusetts Sutler List gives
a list of vendors that specialize in Civil War clothing for military
reenactors. Members of the 20th Massachusetts would be happy
to assist you.
How much does it cost to become a Reenactor?
Initially Civil War reenacting is expensive for the individual who
is considering a military role. For instance, a 1861 Springfield Musket
could run as high as $450.00. All reenactors experience this sticker
shock. The 20th Massachusetts and it's members have spare items
that can be borrowed to help a new military or civilian reenactor
untill that item can be purchased. New members are allowed one year
to purchase their items.
We hope that this information has helped you, and that you and your
family will consider joining the 20th Massachusetts and rediscover
history!