Welcome to the past: Your inquiring mind has led you to us, and we would like to start you offwith a helping hand or two. Each of us began like you, with an interest in the American Civil War and a willingness to learn. Organization: We are an association of people who have joined together to share a common interest. We meet on the third Tuesday of every month at the Largo Club Center at 7:00 PM. We discuss upcoming reenactments, drills, living histories, parades, weapons, books, dances and other topics. Our purpose is to learn about the soldiers and civilians of the 1860’s by reenacting their lifestyles in a fun and sociable way. We are governed by an executive committee and simple by-laws. On the battlefield we follow the military chain of command. Time: Most events are weekends, beginning Friday night and ending Sunday afternoon. Reenactments are usually held both Saturday and Sunday. There is usually at least one major event each month, October through May, with many smaller events in between. The majority of these events are in Florida. You need not attend everything, but most of us get to about ten a year. Family: We are a family oriented historical group. We encourage all members of your family to take part in our activities, in period dress. Properly supervised children are welcome. We encourage 19th century manners in everyone. Facilities: During reenactments you may camp modern (nylon tents and Coleman stove), you may stay in a motel, you may use your RV or trailer, or you may camp in the AUTHENTIC CAMP (no modern equipment visible). The 97th contains all of the above types of folks. The host unit of each event provides water, firewood, straw and port-o-lets. Bathing is rare. Equipment: Your will need to be outfitted properly. At the beginning you should try to obtain your equipment a little at a time, to avoid sudden catastrophic expenses. You may be able to borrow some spare equipment from other members, if it is available, and the unit has a limited amount of gear for loan. This may mean you may not be completely outfitted at first, but the advantage is that if you discover you don’t really like reenacting, you can simply give back the borrowed equipment. If you know you’re going to like reenacting and become hooked on the hobby, you can start collecting your own gear, and give back borrowed gear as you acquire your own. Keep in mind authenticity is of the utmost importance when purchasing your uniform and equipment. All members of the 97th will be more than happy to steer you in the right direction in your purchases. Money: We are a non profit association with yearly dues of $15.00 ($10.00 for an associate membership and $20.00 for a family). We earn our money from dues, shows and appearances. All money collected is used to buy unit equipment and to print and send a newsletter, and to pay for any events we sponsor. Every full member of the company has a vote on how that money is spent. Individually, each member equips himself, buys his own powder and caps, and pays for his own transportation and food for each event. Rough estimates of the basic costs of some equipment is shown on a separate page. Share our interest and enjoyment of this fascinating period of history. Experience Civil War combat, breathe the acrid reek of swirling powder and smoke as your ears fill with the crash of rifle and cannon fire.... Stand shoulder to shoulder with your comrades in faithful reenactments of actual battles. Find a rewarding hobby combining fun with learning about our nation’s history. See our recruiter (Bob Chatham) or any member for more information. 97th Pennsylvania Volunteers, PO Box 554, Pinellas Park 34665 |
