|
We welcome new members who are
willing to meet our high but reasonable standards of performance
and authenticity. We are not "stich-Nazis", and
will not be going over your kit with a fine tooth comb, but we do
know the difference between polyester and cotton. We pride
ourselves in presenting the best impression we can, consistent
with a working man's pocketbook, and with some care in selection
of your uniform and gear, you can too.
Civil War reenacting is not a
cheap hobby. If you seek to ride with us, you already know
the cost of maintaining a horse, trailer, and tack. We often
travel interstate, so a simple Coggin's Certificate is not going
to suffice among our animals. Be prepared to thoroughly inoculate
your mount for the protection of all of our animals, including
your own.
Dismounted Cavalry is obviously
the less expensive route, but even then, be prepared to ultimately
drop a couple of grand into your uniform, weapons, leathers, tent,
and general accessories. Don't buy anything without
consulting a senior member of our unit first! We can guide
you to the best quality at the best price, and ultimately save you
both cash and embarrassment at having wasted both time and money
at some sutler's tent.
Your weapons will be your single
biggest expense. The authentic reproductions of Civil War
carbines and pistols we carry are "real guns", and can
be loaded and fired with impressive effect. Some of our
members also hunt with black powder weapons, or enjoy live firing competition
with organizations such as the North-South Skirmish Association ( N-SSA
).
So if you're looking for an
occasional cheap thrill, Civil War Reenacting isn't for you.
We are more of a family than anything else, with lasting
friendships quickly forming. The mock battles we fight at a
reenactments seldom last more than an hour; the rest of the time
we are in camp, enjoying our mutual comradeship and sharing food,
music, yarns, and snippets of Civil War history with our
friends. At night we gather around the fire pit, perhaps
quaff a few ales, and regale each other with tall tales of every
kind. Sometimes a guitar or banjo will come out, and Stephen
Foster songs fill the still night air. There may be a barn
dance, or a candlelight memorial procession through the
camps. Every weekend is a different adventure.
So if you'd like to "Jine
the Cavalry", drop us an email describing your interest and
general background. While the main body of our unit is
centered around Virginia and the Shenandoah Valley, we have
members from as far north as Vermont and as far west as Colorado.
Wayne Nalls, our
recruiting contact for the 1st Virginia Cav, H and E Companies
can be reached via email by clicking HERE
or by phone at (540) 662-5363 most evenings.
Give Wayne a
call. It just might turn out to be the most rewarding
call you've ever made, bar none.
|
