To the beginning reenactor, or the reenactor whose hobby has been spent in the mainstream, this question is very prominent. Why on earth should I go through the time and expense of researching and acquiring better gear, when I can fight at the same old events with what I've got now?
There are many reasons why some reenactors turn towards more authentic gear and events.
1. The Belief That We Honor the Men Who Have Gone Before: Most reenactors wouldn't question that reenacting is part of honoring the sacrifice of millions of men who fought and died for what they believed in by helping to educate the public in a more palpable way then any book can do. If this is true, then don't we have the obligation to do it to the best of our abilities and means? It's not just about camping styles, or expensive equipment. It's about changing our attitudes so that we welcome and embrace new information that we can use to better educate ourselves and others.
2. Authentic Events are More Fun! Although we all enjoy our traditional local events, do they seem stale and predictable some times? Authentic events are traditionally based on a unique, heavily researched event, and their recreations can become incredible learning experiences. If you truly love history, then these type of events are for you. Some example scenarios include:
1) A real-time recreation of the battle of Pickett's Mill on the ORIGINAL battlefield. (Pickett's Mill, 2004)
2) A recreation of the experiences of 600 Confederate prisoners at Fort Pulaski, with 48 hours recreating actual events, based on the book, "Immortal 600." (Immortal 600, 2001, 2003)
3) The occupation of an original town in Kentucky, with a weekend of bountiful, period rations, and great living history. (Shaker Village, Kentucky, 2004.)
4) Sentry duty on a beautiful barrier island, free from modern intrusions. Watching the Atlantic sunrise while drinking coffee brewed on a driftwood fire. (Ossabaw Island, 2004)
3. Authentic Gear is More Available Now: Good reproductions are more readily available then ever before, as the internet opens up more research, and more small craftsmen to wider audiences Gear can be upgraded fairly inexpensively, and not all improvements cost money. Following this is a list of quick things you can do to improve your impression.
Head to Toes: Improving your General Impression
Hair: Get a haircut! As a general rule, there were very few men with hair past their shoulders. It simply wasn't in style. Take a look at 10 pictures of Confederate soldiers and see what we mean.
Hats: If you need to save money, most impressions will function well with a black civilian slouch hat. This includes Western Federal, as well as almost every Confederate impression. Don't skimp on this though, as a bad hat breaks an impression, but a good one helps make it. Check out www.gavolbn.org/hats.doc for more information on buying a good hat.
Shirts: Stick with a period check pattern instead of solid white shirts. They were fairly rare. At the battle of Cornith, a Confederate regiment searched in vain for a white shirt to use to signal a truce. The Colonel was the only person with one! Look for ones with handsewn buttonholes. Buttons should be bone or glass. Glass buttons, especially white (called "milk glass") are very prevelant at battlefield digs.
Uniforms: Try for the plain, non-descript look. A uniform without excess trim, or date-specific accessories will be more appropriate for more events, saving you money. Before you buy a piece of gear, do your research. Pick the time period you're shooting for, and research what type of that item is most appropriate. Then find a vendor with a reputation for quality who reproduces that item. Don't buy your gear at the last minute. Most vendors who go to mainstream events sell mainstream quality equipment. If you need help finding a good vendor, or researching replacement gear, then ask on the forum.
Accoutrements: As a general rule, Federal accoutrements for a CS impression should be limited to cartridge box, cap pouch, and bayonet/scabbard. Don't use the waistbelt, as this practice is grossly overdone. A simple "Georgia Frame" is appropriate for most CS impressions. Click HERE for more information on getting a good belt at a lower cost. Homespun Wares has roller buckle belts for only $15. When you have the money, a good set of Confederate manufactured accoutrements will enhance your impression. Homespun Wares has these products as well.
Canteen: Although a Federal canteen can do double duty for Confederate as well, this is another practice that is grossly overdone. A good Confederate canteen can be had for around $30, and adds a great dimension to your impression. For more details on picking a good canteen for both impressions, click HERE.
Haversack: You shouldn't skimp on a good Federal haversack, but a Confederate haversack can be had for the cost of material! This is a simple do-it-yourself project that can be easily done by even a novice tailor. Click HERE for more information on haversacks.
Shoes: Most sutler row brogans will suffice for most events. If you want to make a good investment, on a pair of shoes that will last longer, and thus give more use for the money, then invest in a pair from Mattimore Harness, or my personal choice, Robert Land. For a little more, they are better made here in the states from American leather. Whatever shoes you choose, take care of them by keeping them clean and well oiled.
Sleeping Arrangements: If you choose not to go the knapsack route, go with a bedroll. Both styles were equally common in both armies, in both theaters. Invest in one good wool blanket, and a gum blanket from Jarnagin. When you have a little extra money, a Confederate oilcloth is a great investment from Homespun Wares.