From: We Reenact : Journal
Date: September 28, 2008
Reenacting or trying to figure out if one wants to get involved in it; is harder then what people portray. It is like anything else you have to research which includes researching the history of the era this does not just include the wars of that time, how much its going to cost you and what local groups are already existence in your area.
During my research and searching out if reenacting is right for me. I have created a website that post all my research in hopes of connecting with others like me who are interested in reenacting with those who are already in the field. I continue to surround myself with knowledge by reading books or going to events that deal with the era that I am interested in. Always be prepared to talk to people.
The main guideline I can give you in your task of becoming a reenactor or historic interpreter.
1. Have the interest.
2. Research Research Research
a. The era you are interested in. (war, everyday life,etc)
b. Find out more about the local organizations/groups in your area.
c. Find out how much its going to cost you without hurting your life in the present day.
3. Go to as many events as you can.
4. Talk to as many of the reenactors about the hobby. This will gain you information.
Here are some of the differences I have came up with during my research between American Revolution vs Civil War reenacting beside the period clothing. Largely the Civil War is portrayed mainly by men there are a few women groups out there. Most of the time the Civil War is portraying the war there are hardly any events that focus the 1800’s. The civil ware is also more expensive due to them mainly being reenactments and not living history events. This could also be done because the park service or private museums most of the time do not supporting the event. The reenactments are mainly organized by private groups like a historic society or the daughters or sons of Confederacy/Unions.
While the American Revolution is a lot cheaper since the park and museum services are usually the one supporting them. Another hug difference is they consists largely as living history events and not reenactment. That the event is portraying the era and not just focusing on the American Revolution or French & Indian War.
The difference between reenactments and living history are that reenactments usually portray a historic event or time and are mainly to entertain visitors this does not mean they do not educate. While living history is mainly focused in portraying and educating visitors about a time period like the 1800’s or 1700’s; less focusing on an event that is occurring that year.
Each time era is unique in its own way and tries to educate the public rather its through a reenactment, living history, historical event, or some form of festival. It is important to include that in your research while choosing an era to portray. You may be more comfortable to do one type of event then the rest. Continue to read journals and informative books on the era as well as what was going on in that time. I think too many Civil War enthusiast focus on the war and less on the time period.
