FAQ

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FAQ

What do we do?

We portray the military life of a British soldier on duty during the Rebellion in the Colonies. Contrary to popular belief the British soldier was not a mindless robot. He was a well trained and disciplined soldier who fighting thousands of miles from his home managed to win the majority of the battles he was in. We participate in “living history” demonstrations consisting of field tactics, drill, and camp life. We also participate in parades and ceremonies and provide talks to schools, and the general public. We travel to take part in reenactments of Revolutionary War battles with other members of the British Brigade. Some members have appeared as extras in several major motion pictures and historical documentaries. All our members are volunteers, and bear the cost of procuring their own uniforms, equipment, and travel. Our

activities are devoid of 20th Century anachronisms, to the extent that we do not wear jewelry (watches, earrings, rings, etc.) nor

allow facial hair on our soldiers, noncommissioned officers and officers. This is keeping in tradition of the 18th century British Army.

Where do you get your uniforms and equipment?

We make everything that we can ourselves. Our uniforms and equipment are the products of years of exhaustive research, and we take great

pride in our accuracy. Trips have been made to The Guards Museum in London to see actual coats and equipment from the period. Only accurate materials are used – wool, linen, brass, pewter, leather, steel, wood, etc., and we use period tailoring and assembly. The unit is responsible for the production of equipment items unique to the Guards. There are numerous commercial sources for a great deal of the equipment but before a new recruit purchases any item they are asked to consult with their regimental NCO's before they purchase any item. The company Sergeants will tell the new recruits exactly what is needed. In many cases there is used equipment available until you can purchase the equipment.

How much does it cost?

Unfortunately, it is not a cheap hobby. The basic required uniform, arms, and equipment can run close to US $1500.00.

Musicians (drummers and fifers) can may be able to acquire some of their uniform and equipment for considerably less as units occasionally

can provide both the instrument and in some instances the elaborate regimental coat. Purchasing used or secondhand uniforms and equipment can significantly reduce costs. The good news is that the initial investment usually lasts almost a life time. The unit participates in various weekend events where there is an encampment. Many of the larger encampments may include hundreds of tents. Yes we do sleep overnight in the white canvas tents and yes we do eat period food cooked from our authentic 18th century style kitchen.

Why are you depicting a British unit? Aren't you patriotic?

This question has been asked time and time again. Why are you depicting a British Unit? Aren't you patriotic? The question is yes we are patriotic. The reenacting hobby is made up of various units. French, British, American, German. Their goal is to depict the life of a soldier in those various armies. There is various "Umbrella organizations" The Brigade of the American Revolution is made up of units representing all the nations that took part in the American War for Independence. The British Brigade is just British units while the Continental Line depicts the American side. There is also The Northwest Territory Alliance which depicts all representing nations as well. In order to tell the entire story of the times, all sides must be represented. By depicting the British soldier as he was – tough, capable, and courageous, we educate the public, eliminating many inaccurate ideas about the British that have been handed down for generations. Being a member of the Foot Guards does not mean we have any less respect for the those who gave their life for this country on the contrary we believe that by providing an accurate portrayal of the infamous British Red Coat this will bring an increased respect for the hardships that our fore bearers had to overcome to create this great nation. Recreating a British unit is also much more difficult. The standards of drill, discipline, and dress are much higher than they were for the rebel side. Many of our members have served this country proudly in the armed forces and they are very much patriots but patriots who enjoy brining all sides of the story to the table.

Who can join?

In order to take the field as a uniformed member of the 1st Regiment of Foot Guards, you must be of at least sixteen years of age, and

physically able to handle a flintlock musket and endure the riggers of field exercises. Musicians can apply for membership at the age of fourteen, but require parental permission. Children may participate as long as their parent(s) or legal guardian(s) is an active member of the Company. Wives and/or girlfriends are encouraged to participate as “distaff.” There is no upper age limit.

What about the girlfriend or wife and kids, what can they do?

The armies of the time had a large number of women and children attached. As living history is definitely a family oriented hobby,

wives, children, and sweethearts of our modern day soldiers can take part by depicting their 18th century counterparts. We highly encourage the entire family to join. The women and children would portray women and children of the period, in all of the various roles that women and children held. They enact their roles as the officer's ladies and wives of soldiers. The ladies and wives also do many of the crafts and daily chores that would have been done in the camp. Women were an integral part of armies of the period. Clothing patterns, which observe the same standard of accuracy as the men's, are available.