Historical Reenacting Page

Historical reenacting, also called Living History, is the study and preservation of the history and lives of those who went before us. Reenactors (living historians) study and research particular periods in history and then reproduce the physical and mental world of that period to the best of their ability.

Reenactors help to create an experience for viewers and for themselves, that encourages study and enthusiasm for history, in a way that no other activity can. History seems to come alive, sparking imaginations, providing first hand experiences, and keeping the past in the present. The past cannot be forgotten as long as we remember.

Here are selected links to historical reenacting organizations, suppliers, and other items of interest. If you have any data or links that you wish to share, please feel free to contact me. Thank you!

• 155th New York Volunteer Infantry Reenactment Regiment. Buffalo, New York's Irish regiment. Based on the original company I of this Civil War unit. Site also links to many other Civil War sources and resources.
  • Arcade Civil War Days Home Page. Another great Western New York reenactment with a twist.
• British Army rifle drill for the long rifle (3 band Enfield rifle musket). Animations and text show how the soldier drilled. By the 65th (2nd Yorkshire North Riding) Regiment of Foot.
• The 1768 Cloathing [sic] Warrant. British Army Regulations for clothing.
• Cullodon Reenactment site. Scottish Highlanders of the 18th century. Has basics such as:
  • Highland Dress of the '45. Describes common clothing of Scotsmen and English around the 1745 Rising.
  • Belted Plaid Instructions. How to prepare and wear a belted plaid. Simple, but helpful.
  • Useful Links. Links to many Scottish reenacting units, history, sutlers, and related materials.
• The Old 74th Highland Regiment of Foot in the American Revolution. History, documentation, and the modern reenactors.
• Gathering of the Clans. Scottish clan information, and most anything Scottish.
• Clans of Ireland Site. A similar site for the Irish, with many links.
• The Scots Haunbuik. A Scottish grammar introduction. Has pronunciation, word list (700 common), and other info.
• The Tartan Pages: Scotland's Internet.
• Victoriana.com. All sorts of articles, information, links, and resources, for the 19th century lady. Also has sutler/supplier links.

  Sources of Reproduction Materials

• Applewood Books. Carries facsimile books from the late 17th through early 20th centuries. Also has a Living History Link page that includes all sorts of useful links to data and resources.
• Bent's Hard Tack. Made with original recipe using original equipment. Bent's Bakery was one of many contractors who supplied hard tack to the Union Army. (Tell them you saw it here!)
• Fall Creek Suttlery Civil War Sutler.
• Fugawee Corporation. Great boots and shoes for men and women, from the 18th century on...
• Sutler's Stores List. A good listing of many suppliers. Maintained by Prof. Jim Janke, Dakota State University.

Journals and Magazines for Reenactors

• Civil War News.

  Miscellaneous

• Jerry Ernst historical music. Hear authentic music played much the way it was played in the 19th century.
• This Week in the Civil War. Great chronology and fact guide.