Overview of our Military function

 

On the field our Club is run like just like an actual army Company of the 1860's. We maintain a chain of command on and off the field to ensure that everyone is safe first and formost as this is a hobby. Starting with our privates, working up into our staff of corporals, sergeants, and ending with our company commander. We do strive for authenticity in our Civil War military impression, and use Casey's Tactics. At every event we spend time drilling, to learn the intricacies of soldiering and understanding commands. As as result this allows us to participate in some wonderful reenactments.

 

Saftey is a major priority for our club, because you cannot have fun if you get hurt! More than 90 percent of the time we fire blanks from our Black Powder weapons, but they can still cause harm so we require proper training and understanding in their use. As members of the ACWS we also enhance this with the clear rules provided by "The Pacific Area Civil War Reenactors".

 

 

Company B, 71st Pennsylvania Gear Equipment List

 

As time goes on each individual is required to provide their own Uniform and Equipment to participate in this hobby, even though we try to help out during your first year or two. Each participant will want to start by purchasing their own Uniform and Canteen. As time progresses you will want to aquire the rest of your items in the order that works best for you. Please keep in mind that the faster you aquire your own "kit", means the sooner that we can outfit new members who want to join our ranks.

 

Uniform of the Privates in the 71st shall consist of the following:

  1. Forage (a.k.a. Bummer) Style Cap.
  2. Four Button Sack Coat (dark blue wool).
  3. Sky Blue (a.k.a. Kersey) Wool Trousers.
  4. Issue pattern or civilian pattern wool or cotton shirt of period accurate design.
  5. Brogans or Jefferson Bootie Style Lather Footwear.
  6. Rag or dark earth tone colored wool socks (knit type are preferred).

Basic Kit (Accouterments)The Accouterments for the 71st shall consist of the following:

  1. Cartridge Box w/brass US Plate Cap Box Leather Belt w/brass US Plate
  2. Period accurate metal canteen (either “bull’s eye” or “smooth side”).
  3. Black-tarred Haversack (with roller buckle)

The Rifle and Bayonet for the 71st shall consist of the following:

  • The M1855 or M1861 Springfield Rifled Musket is the preferred rifle for the 71st.
  • The M1853 Enfield may be used by members of the 71st, as it was the original issue.
  • All other muskets including the M1842 and M1863 Springfield, along with all other types like Shotguns and Pistols, may only be used with approval of the Unit Command Group.
  • No blade weapons; sword, axe, knife, etc. may be carried without the approval of the Unit Command Group.

Tentage for the 71st shall consist of the following:

  • The “A” frame wedge is most appropriate for all members of the 71st.
  • “Dog” tents may be used by members of the 71st.
  • “Campaign style” camping (no tent) may be used by members of the 71st, but is discouraged.
  • Wall tents may only be used by individuals after receiving permission from the Command Group.

Other items that a soldier in the 71st will need to procure include:

  • Period Accurate Gray Wool Blanket.
  • Period Accurate “Gum” Blanket.
  • Period Accurate Eyewear (if applicable).
  • Period Accurate Eating Utensils.
  • Period Accurate Plate and Cup.
  • Period Accurate Personal Grooming Items.

Optional Items that a soldier in the 71st will find handy out in the field include:

  • Greatcoat (sky blue, infantry style).
  • Scarf (knitted and of natural materials and dull colors)
  • Gloves (Fingerless is prefered)
  • Poncho (Like a gum blanket with a head hole)
  • Knapsack (double-bagged, tarred variety is accurate).
  • Waistcoat (a.k.a. vest).
  • Period Accurate Drawers (a.k.a. underwear)
  • Gaitors (tarred variety is prefered)
  • For certain "early war" events, a grey uniform with "I" buttons may be approriate, as it was the original issue. Please see the Command Group before such a purchase.