How do I join and what will it cost?

Getting Started

It's easy to join the Texas Rifles. Every January, we "muster out" for a business meeting at Round Top, Texas, near Brenham. This is an excellent opportunity to spend a weekend with the unit and see first hand what we are all about. If you have missed this event, don't worry, you can get started any time. There are usually around 10 events each year and you will be welcome at whatever events best fit your schedule. For more information on upcoming events, you can access our schedule from this page by clicking on "Events". New member packets are available to guide recruits in "what to do next," information on proper gear and sutlers, and many other things. This info is available on our "Clothing and Equipment" page.

What Will It Cost?

As a recruit, you will be expected to equip yourself with a uniform and a weapon as soon as you can. The members of the Rifles and the regional quartermasters gladly help new recruits get the gear they will need when they are just getting started. Sutlers specializing in serving reenactors provide new equipment, weapons and uniforms at reasonable cost for any budget. You can order through the mail, and at most reenactments these sutlers form period "tent cities" where reenactors and spectators can shop. Designated sponsors can help a new recruit find some of the things he will need with a walk through sutler city. This is a great opportunity to acquire gear because you're sponsor can help you find authentic items that you can see and try on. Furthermore, most of the sutlers take plastic as well as your cash and personal checks.

You should be carefull when making purchases, though. We pride ourselves on being an authentic and historically accurate organization and not all the items you may pick up at a sutler will be accurate. Veteran members will carefully instruct new recruits on where good quality gear can be found for the best prices and what items are not necessarily needed. Please see the official Uniforms & Equipment Guide for more info on what to get and where to get it. Those who are interested in becoming civilian reenactors should visit our Civilian Page where you can find lots of information on how to acquire items for your impression. Once you are equipped, you will find the hobby amazingly inexpensive. Annual dues are $12 dollars for individuals and $18 dollars for family memberships. Members share travel expenses by auto to events. Living costs at reenactments involve little more than the cost of the food you cook over campfires!

Soon you will begin to experience a bond with other members of the Rifles, and as the comaraderie grows you'll begin to understand what it was like to be a soldier or a civilian in the Civil War!