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Creating an impression of a colonial militia member is probably the least expensive way to begin an authentic interpretation. Militia members were simply citizen soldiers in the purest sense. They had no uniforms, special firearms or standardized gear of any sort. They were just men, and sometimes women, who were defending their homes.
The concept of an armed force of citizens is as old as the colonies themselves the idea having been imported from England and modified to suit the special needs of the raw frontier which in those days extended down to the shores of the Atlantic Ocean or Chesapeake Bay. In the early days of the colonies people formed militias to protect themselves from the Native Americans who were often less than enthusiastic about what their new neighbors were doing. These groups were used in virtually all of the conflicts, Indian and otherwise, that took place from the early 17th century and became somewhat less informal as time went on. On the eve of the Revolution militias were highly organized with established proceedures for election of officers and the delegation of responsibilities.
Much has been made of the unreliable, and most unmilitary, manner of the militias used during the French and Indian and Revolutionary Wars. Washington himself seems to have been of two minds regarding the use of militias, alternately cursing and praising them. Yet, when used properly, militias provided much needed support of the Continental Army and were often instrumental in turning the tide of battle. In sum they were a much needed addition to the newly created Continental Army and certainly did their part in winning the War for American Independence.
Here are the basic items you'll need to accurately portray a member of a colonial militia and what you might expect to pay for each. Use our links page to find sutlers for the various items or write us at militia@armoryhill.com for a list of approved suppliers.
By using the prices at the lower end of the scale and eliminating some items (hat, axe and some not immediately necessary items inside the hunting pouch) we estimate that it could cost just under $1,000 to put together a very passable impression of a colonial militia member. Remember too that one can further reduce costs by making or trading for some of your kit. If $1,000 seems like a lot of money it should be noted that once you have the items you're pretty much done. Although to be honest I've never met a reenactor who wasn't constantly redesigning and refining his or her gear.
We publish this list in conjunction with our "Call to Arms" recruiting poster in an attempt to raise our own "colonial militia" here in Northern California. We propose to operate under the auspices of the Brigade of the American Revolution, although we haven't mentioned it to them yet. Participation will require membership in both the B.A.R. and the A.H.L.H.A. We'd like to gather at least four times a year and take part in other historical reenactments as they present themselves. All of this is still very much in the planning stages, spurred on in no small part by your editor's desire to see colonial reenactors more well represented here on the west coast. Those who sign on early will be able to help give direction to the Citizens Colonial Militia and we grow and mature into what will hopefully become one of the best reenactment groups in California.
So, if you're interested in participating in one of America's, and the worlds, fastest growing hobbys gather yourself together and join with Armory Hill. We are almost certain to enjoy ourselves and, with any luck at all, help Californians understand that early American history doesn't stop west of the Mississippi.
Keep on trekkin'...JBW
