U S Marshal impression

[csabugler]

This is Pete the Bugler from the critters. I have been looking into a U S Marshals impression for civilian events. They were certainly around, one for each judicial district, and would have been a regular part of civilian life. They were the enforcement arm of the courts. I have found only a little bit of info on their lives, duties, equipage, etc during the 1850-60's. Most of what I have found is wild west related, and Hollywood bunk. They did spend a lot of time tracking escaped slaves, and those sympathetic to their efforts.
Anyone have any good sources? I don't mind doing some reading, but I don't have the free time to read 8-10 books to glean out a 10 minute presentation worth of material.

[NoahBriggs]

Re: U S Marshal impression

www.usmarshals.gov has some good history of the service minus the bunk.

Be careful in your portrayal. Some zealous person might try to get you hauled in on charges of impersonating a Federal officer, especially if you wear a correct badge. It's my understanding that whenever an actor portrays someone in uniform on the screen, Hollywood has to sign some paperwork that gives the actor temporary exemption from that rule.

Not trying to rain on the parade. Personally I would not mind seeing a correct Marshal, provided there was a reason for him to be present at the event.

[csabugler]

Re: U S Marshal impression

Thanks, Noah. That is the source of the good info that I do have. I e-mailed them about it, got no response yet, probably going to get investigated. The FBI and GBI already have a file on my from 30 years of handgun permits so that doesn't bother me.
I would certainly hope that a guy in jean cloth on a horse would not be taken seriously as a legal entity, but probably a good idea to look into that.
One of the things I am trying to determine is when would be a correct time to see a US Marshal. Certainly if the district court is in session, and I think almost anytime seeking fugitives and run-aways, but want to verify that.

[Jeff Prechtel]

Re: U S Marshal impression

Bugler....

You might want to consider a US Deputy marshall,
as most of what I've read (1870s), said the Marshall's duty's were
restricted to the desk and administration, instead of "field work".

and like Noah said, be careful about portraying a federal officer, check
with your local state & fed laws on that. In Texas for instance, it is
illeagal to portray a Texas Ranger, with a badge, with either in reenacting
or livinghistory without permission. The rangers actually have a proviso
for this in their by-laws.

[csabugler]

Re: U S Marshal impression

Actually got a response from the USMS webmaster, he sent my request to the service historian. Maybe I can get some stuff from them. Also look into the "impersonating an officer" thing.