Texas Rifles Civilian Living History
So,you've decided to look into Civil War reenacting. We are very pleased that you
are considering the Texas Rifles.
Civil
War reenacting is not just for those who wish to portray the soldiers who
fought the battles; there are many opportunities for men, women and children to
portray the civilian population of the time. Civilian impressions include the
family of the soldiers, nurses, physicians, merchants, politicians, and other
private citizens who were all a big part of the history of the Civil War.
The Texas Rifles’ civilian contingent authentically portrays
the noncombatant men, women, and children of
Photo Courtesy of Tracy Masseling of TLM Photography
REENACTING WITH THE TEXAS
According
to the Bylaws of the Texas Rifles, all prospective members must go through a
probationary period. During this time, he/she must have a sponsor who is
already an active member in good standing. The sponsor may be someone you
already know who is active with the Texas Rifles or the Civilian Coordinator may ask
another civilian reenactor to be your sponsor. The sponsor helps get the
recruit to events, assists in acquiring the proper clothing and gear, and helps
the recruit meet and feel comfortable among other members.
Recruits
must attend two Texas Rifles maximum effort events within 12 months before they
can stand for election into the unit, which takes a 2/3-majority vote. A
recruit is first eligible to be put forward for election to full membership
during the first business meeting held once a recruit attends his/her second
event. Until that time, no dues are assessed and the recruit is not allowed to
vote. Military and civilian members of the Texas Rifles have equal voting
rights in the organization. See the Civilian Handbook for additional information.
Children
Some
of our civilians have children who accompany them to many of the events and are
an asset to the impression of families caught up in the war. Children of adult
members are automatically elected as members at the time the adult recruit is
elected. An adult responsible for the minor must accompany persons under 18 to
all events.
Photo Courtesy of Mike Covington of Covingtons Traveling Portraits
GETTING STARTED AS A
The
Civilian Handbook and associated Appendix provide the basic information to begin developing an accurate civilian
impression. We do not expect new civilian participants to be fully equipped or
to have a fully developed impression at the beginning. We know that creating an
accurate and authentic impression takes time and research. Our members are
eager to assist new recruits by sharing their research, directing them to
suppliers and loaning items as available.
Additional information
Contact
the Texas Rifles Civilian Coordinator for further information about Texas
Rifles membership or visit the “How Do I Join?” section of our website.