Authenticity Levels: Progress or Decline?

[Curt Schmidt]

Re: Authenticity Levels: Progress or Decline?

Hallo!

Ah..
The heretical concept of participating based upon working hard to earn an inviation based upon one's demonstrated ability to meet and maintain event goals, versus demanding to participate based upon a perceived sense of universal entitlement because one has a "Civil War outfit" of some type.
;)

Curt

[csuniforms]

Re: Authenticity Levels: Progress or Decline?

Hello, What are you trying to say here?? What came first, the chicken or the egg?? The Mainstreamers or the Authentics?? Or, why did the reenacator cross the road, to join the other side??? I can understand the frustration that the authentics have with those who just dont get sometimes, AND I DONT EVEN WANT TO GO THERE! I am just trying to get good people, [forget the authentic issues involved here, I personally try to be as authentic as I can], to be gracious hosts, convivial patrons, leaders in their field, communicators extraordinaire', experts in their field, and educators all-- thats for both sides of this issue.
CSuniforms Tom Arliskas

[Curt Schmidt]

Re: Authenticity Levels: Progress or Decline?

Hallo!

"What came first, the chicken or the egg?? "

Neither. The Big Bang Theory. (Matter created out of pure energy....)
;) :) :)

Curt

"I reckon I don't got be a general to be able to call a turtle a cooter if I want to!"

-unknown Civil War soldier.

[Charles Heath]

Re: Authenticity Levels: Progress or Decline? OLD WORLD

"Again, my only concern is how do we handle the people who show up and are told they cannot participate because they "dont measure up".

Tom,

This is one of those bedrock "nasty old CPH" myths over in the FMA world, and need not be repeated here because it screams "farbism" at the top of its lungs. If anything the opposite is true, and that consists of bending over backwards to help people who may not be ready for prime time.

I can cite four examples from this past weekend, and if anyone was around at Athens MO the last time around, and a newly arrived transplant from South Carolina walked on, which resulted in the single greatest act of humanity that I'd ever seen at an event. I'll let someone else relate that heartwarming, Hallmark Hall of Fame, feel good, warm fuzzy, plenty of corn for everyone kind of moment.

To put on the mod cap for a moment, how about a little less them vs us, please.

[Curt Schmidt]

Re: Authenticity Levels: Progress or Decline?

Hallo!

Make that six...
I helped a first time Newcomer to the Darkside this weekend myself, and pard Budd Wilson spent a big chunk of yesterday escorting and helping a Thousand and One Question Newcomer himself.

No big deal, it's the way we have "done business" for years.
:)

Curt
The Truth Is Out There, the Lies Are In Your Head Mess

[Charles Heath]

Re: Authenticity Levels: Progress or Decline?

No big deal, it's the way we have "done business" for years.

Curt,

Absolutely! I do believe it is time once again for certain oft spouted "mean ol' nasty CPHers" myths (yes, even on this forum, of all places) to be heading for the ditch.

[Old Reb]

Re: Authenticity Levels: Progress or Decline?

There are people that don't know but want to know and they are worth effort. There are people that don't know and don't want to know and they are not worth effort. There are people who know but don't want to change and they are hopeless.

[8thmocav]

Re: Authenticity Levels: Progress or Decline?

I'm new to AC and I've enjoyed reading many of these responses. This is my second year in the hobby (well, I'm moving to OH here in a matter of days from No. IL and my season is disrupted) and I'm learning a lot. And that is why I'm here on the AC.

I know when I saw my first re-enactment, which was surely mainstream, I was reluctant to get involved due to the cost factor. We have 5 young children, oldest being 10, and the youngest almost 2...you can imagine the strains on the old family budget!

But I knew the importance of American history and family history and have pushed ahead. I was fortunate enough to anty up and get a Zimmerman de-farbed Enfield (of Harper's Ferry) and it wasn't too much more than Fall Creek or whoever I was trying to get an Enfield from at the time (and he had one handy for sale then in February!). But as we all know, cost is a factor-for me at least, a big one. I would love to expend every dollar possible in search of accuracy. But money is surely a factor.

And another factor is 'what is accurate?' I had probably 12o ancestors who fought in the War, most for the CSA, ranging from VA, NC, GA and MO (both sides) and even IA, infantry, cavalry and artillery. And of course, there was a range of uniforms possible. I'm seeking to follow 2 ancestors who fought in MO (one in the 8th MO Cav Reg, Co B - 2nd Lt. under Col. Jeffers...he also fought with the MSG under M. Jeff Thompson) and the other of the 8th MO S.M. Cav., Co K, Capt US) and while the Union impression will likely be much easier to simulate, the CSA will be difficult.

In short, I cannot find exactly what my Confederate ancestor might have worn, might have had as weapons (although for sure he had a pistol...my dad saw it as a boy, but it was lost to a house fire...likely a 1860 Colt), what his saddle & tack may have looked, etc. I would love to have accurate info. But who has it? Who can say for sure? I have not found it in my research as of yet. And I've spent hours upon hours, and of course, plan to continue...

I think in 99 times out of 100, we should all be proud of everyone who has a desire to preserve history of this critical American moment, (progressive or mainstream) and as kindly as we would a brother, work to enlighten them and inspire them to seek out the most accurate impression as possible.

Else we may inadvertantly intimidate them and have them say in their heart, "I cannot commit the resources right now to be involved at that level, so I won't try to be involved at all."

After all, it almost happened to me....

Brent Harty
8thmocav@gmail.com

[LindaTrent]

Re: Authenticity Levels: Progress or Decline?

In short, I cannot find exactly what my Confederate ancestor might have worn, might have had as weapons (although for sure he had a pistol...my dad saw it as a boy, but it was lost to a house fire...likely a 1860 Colt), what his saddle & tack may have looked, etc. I would love to have accurate info. But who has it? Who can say for sure? I have not found it in my research as of yet. And I've spent hours upon hours, and of course, plan to continue...[/email]

Hi Brent,

I'm sure you already tried, but don't forget to visit those older relatives who have old pictures that they'd love to talk about. No one knew that my cousin had a photograph of my great grandfather until I was putting together my family history. I stopped by a few cousins' homes and not only found four or five pictures (most of them 1880s through 1918), but one of them was of my great grandfather in his union uniform.

The fellas here on the AC were wonderful and confirmed his identity by saying things like "Union artillery shell jacket and mounted service trousers," which would be indicative of his service in the artillery as a teamster, which his records indicate that he indeed was. Never say never till you've exhausted all resources. :tounge_sm

Linda.

[milo1047]

Re: Authenticity Levels: Progress or Decline?

Pards,

I'm a relative newcomer to this hobby of ours (three years in now) and at the beginning, in my heady rush to gain a uniform, bought a mainstream 'package deal' off a sutler to remain unnamed. I had no clue that there were different vendors and differing quality of gear. Imagine my surprise when I found out otherwise! But I have since been doing my best to improve my kit and become better then the 'streamism that is the norm out West. Made sure to get my blanket, shoes and other accoutrements from good vendors and started doing my research, carrying in all my gear, etc. etc.

Now I'm in the process of replacing the mainstream gear I already have, looking for a good hat, blouse and shirt. I strive to perfect my impression, though when I look at some of the requirements for events in the Events Folder, i sometimes wonder if I showed up as I am now, would I be turned away? As a 'fresh fish' to c/p/h looking in, it is rather intimidating. But, on the other hand I hear all about how people are generous and helpful to those showing up with some sub-par gear and it helps get rid of some that trepidation.

This forum and the folks on it have been a handy resource, even for a lurker like me, with the links and other information they willingly to provide to those like me. I am hoping to make it out East for an event sometime in the next couple years and maybe meeting some of you folks face to face. You guys are a big help :) Without this forum, I think I may not have ben able to get beyond where I was when I started.

a big "Thank You" to you all,

[M_Kupsch]

Re: Authenticity Levels: Progress or Decline?

Emilio,

Good to hear you are on the right path. To answer your question regarding if you showd up at an event (meaning those listed here on the forum) with your 'streamer uniform, I am thinking you would not make muster. That being said, I am sure that someone would square you away with clothing, equipment that would pass muster.

[billwatson]

Re: Authenticity Levels: Progress or Decline?

Milo,

Why not pick an event, send the organizers a note about what you have, backed by a couple of photos of you in your gear, and let them tell you what they think? YOU may fuss yourself right out of attending an event that they'd be glad to have you attend, and, as noted, they might be able to replace bits and pieces of your impression without even breaking a sweat.

Wanting to go to better events and wanting to meet the standards will get you some new friends very quickly. That's the "attitude" part of the equation.

[milo1047]

Re: Authenticity Levels: Progress or Decline?

Mr. Watson,

my problem isn't just one of equipment, but one of distance! There's only one 'campaigner' style event out here on the West Coast that I know of, and haven't managed to make it out to that one yet due to time constraints, school, etc. I'm putting an event on the East Coast on my calender to make sure I can plan properly for it, have money for a plane ticket, etc.

[Coatsy]

Re: Authenticity Levels: Progress or Decline?

Emilio,

I know that a lot of guys here on this forum are in your shoes. Doug Cooper, Silas, and others have to really pick and choose the events out east. My advice is pick one good quality, or 1rst tier event next year, save for a plane ticket, get your kit in order, do some reading to get into the mindset of the soldier, and go for it. I missed many fine events when I was in college (Outpost 1 and 2, the Chickamaugas, Ft. Gaines, etc) so I do understand where you are coming from. If flying isn't your game look up some of the guys that live out west and try to carpool with them. Don't be afraid to ask. One of my best pards of late came from asking for a people to carpool with to Stones River in '05. There are multiple options even for the "po college student."

[billwatson]

Re: Authenticity Levels: Progress or Decline?

Mr. Watson,

my problem isn't just one of equipment, but one of distance! There's only one 'campaigner' style event out here on the West Coast that I know of, and haven't managed to make it out to that one yet due to time constraints, school, etc. I'm putting an event on the East Coast on my calender to make sure I can plan properly for it, have money for a plane ticket, etc.

All the more reason to get on the phone with the event organizers ahead of time and make sure you're in the groove. Remember, these better events are put on by reenactors, almost exclusively, and even where it's a partnership, the standards for impressions are invariably up to the reenactor partners. Most are eager to have attendees and most will try to find a way to say "yes" to you, even if it means finding you lender gear for a couple of items. But the other really big thing is that in this type of reenacting, there is a lot of anxiety about getting things buttoned down very early in the game. An inquiry six months before an event will be greeted a lot more cheerfully than an inquiry six days before an event.