Sponsored by the Michigan Military Technical & Historical Society and the Chesterfield Historic Village. Visitors can enjoy a meal at the picnic area or take a walk along a mile-long trail that has interpretive signs describing the events of the battle. They are very careful not to re-fight the Civil War: Yes, we may play Dixie from time to time, that is because we are in the south and it represents the local heritage, the Blue-Grey Armys policy statement says. Copyright 2023 Copyright 2018 Florida Department of Environmental Protection. Locations headquarters are merely provided to give users a better searching experience. When:January or February (open to the public Saturday and Sunday). Florida's premier resource of news and events for Civil War Reenactors Florida Reenactors Online We'll assume you're ok with this, but you can opt-out if you wish. In 2014 the name was changed toNorth Florida ArtilleryHistorical Foundation, Inc.was established as a non profit/IRS organization. We'll assume you're ok with this, but you can opt-out if you wish. There should be no adornments or brass letters or numbers on the hats. Because the Alafia River Rendezvousisan immersive event that requires authenticity, all participants, including volunteers,arerequired to wear period dress. There arescores of living history events and historical war reenactments taking place across the state of Florida year round, but the following eight rank amongmy favorites. Mess Kit Each soldier needs to eat. Here are two nearby campgrounds: Stephen Foster Cultural Center State Park(22 miles). For questions, contact webmaster@floridareenactorsonline.com. The quality varies. Keystone Heights FL 32656, Contact the Statewide Information Line: I do Brooksville and several others in Florida, and travel for others. Jean wool is much cooler and was more common for the Confederate soldier during the war. I've been getting my gear together over the past year and was hoping to do my first reenactment event this year then hoping by next year to have a camp site assembled so that my wife and children will be able to experience the solders life and also the evening camp life activities. Matched with an identical piece and mounted on uprights these will provide passable shelter for two men. These groups often focus on reenactment of wars, offering members (and sometimes the public) a glimpse of what life was like during the conflicts that shaped history. There are several monuments at Olustee Battlefield State Historic Park: The largest Confederate one was erected in 1912 before a crowd of 4,000 including many Confederate veterans. 46th Annual Reenactment and 159th Anniversary of the Battle of Olustee begins- Florida's largest Civil War battle 2:45 p.m. And the 2nd Wisconsin of the Iron Brigade. Jacksonville FL 32226, 3400 S.E. Many members of The Leon Rifles have loaned out spare equipment until the new recruit could purchase his own gear. In 1912, when many living Civil War veterans still attended reunions, the battlefield became the state's first historic site. These events are closed to the public and open to reenactors only. Also, wedid not want to be viewedas farbs,reenactors who dont pay attention to detail ortake authentic living history seriously. The eventwas mutually beneficial, butwearing period clothing was a non-negotiable requirement. Meanwhile, folks in Lake City whose ancestors fought on both sides of the Civil War work together in a group called the Blue-Grey Army, whose purpose is to promote knowledge about Olustees history. Although Florida seceded there was a pro-Union and anti-Confederate minority in the state, an element that grew as the war progressed. We are a Civil War reenactment group based in north Florida and are actively recruiting members who have an interest in Civil War history and reenactment. These earnings directly support our costs to produce free content on FloridaRambler.com Thank you for your support! Although there are modern camping facilities available outside the rendezvous encampment, the most authentic way to experience pre-1840s life is to pitch a tent or tipi in the primitive camp. Occasionally, a second-hand weapon may be purchased but make sure someone knowledgeable inspects it before purchase. Traditionally, on Friday, educational programs are planned for student, including a series of 10-minute living-history presentations. The North Florida Artillery Historical Foundation, Inc. was formed as a partnership between two great cannoneers Al Hartman and Jim Long. Many different styles are sold by many different suppliers. 1 Living History & Historical War Reenactments in Florida 1.1 Castillo de San Marcos National Monument 1.2 The Dade Massacre 1.3 The Fort Foster Rendezvous 1.4 The Alafia River Rendezvous 1.5 The St. Andrews Bay Salt Works Raid 1.6 The Battle of Olustee Reenactment 1.7 The Battle of Bowlegs Creek 1.8 The Brooksville Raid 2 Map It! | Contact Us. The 42nd Royal Highlander Regiment can be visited throughout the day in their encampment near Stage 2. Check websites for more details, including entry fees. This park tells the story of Florida's largest Civil War battle, which took place Feb. 20, 1864. Stroll through a living village, watch skilled craftspersons at work, observe folk artists creatingone-of-a-kind pieces,and even better, watch cavalry gallop across a field and tremble at a cannons blast! I just subscribed to your on-line newsletter to make sure I don't miss any future newsletters Bonnie. Hats can come in any color, however, brown, blue, black or gray are preferred. The weekend of living history activities includes exhibits, parades, period music concerts as well as restaging the battle. To submit a show for consideration please feel free to contact us here. We feel that having family involved enriches the experience and promotes the best values of reenacting. 8th Confederate Cavalry / 7th Kentucky Cavalry (US), 35th Alabama Infantry & 13th Kentucky Infantry Regiment, 8th Alabama Company I "The Emerald Guard", Second Connecticut Regiment of Volunteers "The Old 19th CVI'', Eighth Regiment Connecticut Volunteers, Company A, 24th Iowa Volunteer Regiment Civil War Reenactors, Battery G, Second Illinois Light Artillery, 1st North Carolina Volunteers / 11th North Carolina Regiment & 151st PVI, 149th Pennsylvania Bucktails Volunteer Infantry, Southern Nevada Living History Association, Hampton's Battery F Pennsylvania Independent Light Artillery, 3rd Pennsylvania Light Artillery, Battery B, 142nd Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry Company F, Ferguson SC Artillery Civil War Reenactors, 28th Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry Company B, 21st Virginia Volunteer Infantry, F Company, 19th Virginia Infantry Company B - The Albemarle Rifles, 33d Regiment - Wisconsin Volunteer Infantry, Company E, 3rd Regiment, Confederate Engineers, Carlin's Battery "D" 1st WV Light Artillery. If looking to dive into reenacting, the number one piece of advice is to speak to a unit before making purchases. Violators of our copyright will be prosecuted to the full extent of the law. The Battle of Bowlegs Creek was the final skirmish in a Union campaign to stop the flow of Jake Summerlinscattle to Confederate troops. For instance, several of our men are into Spanish-American War reenacting as well. We are made up of women, men, and children. Sutlers: You will often see information regarding sutlers on various websites and event listings. Living history, authentic encampments and reenactors bring Florida history to the forefront during thisevent at Olustee Battlefield Historic State Park. Before refrigeration, salt was crucial for food preservation, andhundreds of salt works sprang up along FloridasGulf Coast,boilingsea water in iron kettles for its production. The American Civil War, fought between 1861 and 1865, continues to live on in the form of living history reenactments. Gainesville FL 32641, 6239 State Road 21 You may use this event information any way you see fit, all I ask is that you give credit to the Florida Reenactors Online News Magazine. What are you people afraid of? Back in the 1990s, the church I attended operated the general store for the Alafia River Rendezvous. Thank you for visiting and God Bless America and God Bless our history. History of the North Florida Artillery Historical Foundation, Incorporated. Ordnance Rifles on Carriages with full limbers, and one 12 lbr Field Howitzer. Writers are welcomed and should email me at webmaster@floridareenactorsonline.com. elcome! I have some equipment, as I did reenact some time ago in the Brooksville raid. Some reenactments are large-scale events that involve hundreds of participants, while others are more intimate affairs with only a few dozen people. 1 talking about this. Authentic campsitesare open to the public. Haversack Black tarred, canvas sack which is hung over the shoulder containing rations, housewife (sewing kit), tobacco, etc. During Civil War Heritage Days, Fort Zachary Taylor and the surrounding areas transform into a lively 1861 community comprised of Union and Confederate soldiers, craftsmen and townspeople. Sergeant Drew BellTheLeonRifles@gmail.com. Explore Florida's beaches and backwaters, islands and prairies, campgrounds, trails and historic sites. TheCastillo de San Marcos National Monumentin St. Augustine is the oldest stone (coquina) and mortar fort in the United States. Civilians: In addition to soldiers, reenactments often feature civilian encampments, where people can learn about the day-to-day lives of those who lived through the Civil War. The real unit spent the end of the war guarding the St. Johns River in Florida. **We honor the legacy that was set before us by Col. Robert Niepert. You are visiting this site because you are fascinated with the American Civil War. In a reenactment, Confederate troops advance to meet the attacking Union army during the battle at the Brooksville Raid, Saturday, Jan. 19 . I receive a small amount of compensation when you purchase from my links at no additional cost to you. The basic kit should include a tin cup, a metal plate, and utensils. Bring a picnic lunch, take a hike on our trails and learn about our famous history. We primarily portray Company D of the 2nd Florida Volunteer Infantry Regiment, CSA. Only three U.S. soldiers survived, and only three Seminole warriors were killed. After securing horses, they continued to pull the train all the way back to Jacksonville. Educational programs and demonstrations designed specifically for school groups are offered on the Friday of the reenactment weekendwhere kids can see what life was like in 1860s Florida. This battle was fought on February 20, 1865 and was the only major battle in Florida during the Civil War. Not just known for the history of the famous battle, visitors to Olustee Battlefield Historic State Park can see abundant animal and plant life in this wild and wonderful place. The sight of Union and Confederatecavalry emerging from the pines onto the battlefield, the sounds of explosivessending palmettos soaring high into the air, and medics and chaplains ministering to the wounded and dying scattered across the ground all make for a moving, realisticexperience. Your browser is not supported for this experience.We recommend using Chrome, Firefox, Edge, or Safari. Check out our guide onHow to Join a Reenactment Group. Underpants Authentic underwear is sold but most reenactors use modern garments. James Harrell 24 talking about this. 3:00 p.m. Reenactors, sulters and exhibitors wishing to spend the night may stay until Monday. Welcome to Olustee Battlefield Historic State Park. Many reenactors enjoy immersing themselves in the period and there just weren't any spectators with smart phones in the 1860's. If you want to have your event listed, contact me. We seek to commemorate the great hardships and sacrifices of the soldiers and citizens of our nation during our most turbulent and defining moment in our Country's history. African-American reenactors are less common, but because of the three colored units in Olustee, Grzelak said black reenactors from around the country participate. Historical reenactment groups and living history groups offer an insight into how men and women lived in past times. *This post may contain affiliate links. How to find civil war reenactment groups near me. The battle reenactment, which includes a skirmish on Saturday and a scripted battle on Sunday, is dramatic and spectacular, according to Park Service Specialist Andrea Thomas. Visitors who attend on the two public rendezvous days are not required to be in period dress. Copyright 2023 Florida Rambler Media. Black powder is bought thru a variety of different sources. It was a Confederate victory; Union forces retreated to Jacksonville. Tactical Reenactment: Some reenactments will be listed as "tactical" or "private". Programs are offered throughout the weekend, including the program Saturday at 11 a.m. on the participation in the Civil War of people of color. Not all reenactment groups will offer the same experiences. In fact, some of the movie scenes were filmed at the Olustee reenactment. Our unit is comprised of members of the Mifflin Guard, PRVC and additional, we on occasion attend events with the other Bucktail groups. Privacy Notice: We use cookies on our website to enhance your experience. Visitors have come from as far away as New Zealand. In response to the U.S. governments effortto move their peopleto a reservation, 180 Seminole warriors ambushed a column of 110 marching U.S. Army troops led by Major Francis Langhorne Dade on the morning of Dec. 28, 1835. We are a group of American Civil War reenactors who portray both Company G of the 28th Georgia Volunteer Infantry, C.S.A., and Company D of the 123rd New York Volunteer Infantry, U.S.A. Our website is always under construction, so check back often, as we will be adding more things as we progress. If you have an interest in history and would like to experience what it felt like to be there, then consider contacting us. On the afternoon of Feb. 20, 1864, Union troops, in an attemptto interrupt Confederate food supply routes, clashed in a fierce battle with forces at Ocean Pond, near Lake City. Anyone who loves reenacting in the great state of florida! If there are any group that would be willing to have me dress and reenact with them for this event. Member groups receive a link to their group page or can have a group page designed for them. We are a family-oriented group, and encourage the participation of family members in our camp. Cotton shirts sold by sutlers are your best bet. We enjoy portraying members of both sides of the war as a tribute to our heritage from the north and the south. This list is far from an exhaustive list. You can find civil war reenactments all over the country 12 months out of the year. You may not have a lot of money when starting out in the hobby, but it is important that the reenactor strives toward authenticity. The actual Battle of Olustee was bloody: One in four men was a casualty, with 2,807 killed, wounded or captured. History comes alive every February at the annual Civil War Reenactment of the Battle of Olustee. Many units have loaner gear or special requirements. Olustee FL 32087. They share one thing in common passion for parks. After Abraham Lincoln was elected president of the United States on November 6, 1860, Florida and 10 other Southern states chose to secede, severing their ties with the rest of the country. Many areas are still under construction, so please be patient. Love the Civil War Era. Where:St. Andrews Bay Beach,Panama City Explore Florida's oldest statepark and one ofFlorida'slargest Civil War battles. There comes a decision, however, in damp weather for the taller man as to which end of his body to keep dry! The Florida Civil War reenactment of the Battle of Olustee includes gun smoke, booming cannons and cavalry at Olustee Battlefield State Historic Park. TheBattle of Bowlegs CreekHeritage Festival is an annual event tomemorializePolk Countys only Civil War battle. Information about your use of this site is shared with Google. Although these are not battle reenactments, they are the only known Colonial military displays in the state. Participants often stay in character throughout the event, sleeping in period-appropriate tents and eating food cooked over an open fire. A small frying pan could substitute for the plate, especially if the unit does not have a Mess and you are required to cook for yourself. Reenactment organization locations are represented as having a "Headquarters". Todaya reproduction of the original 1836 fort has been constructedon site. THE CIVIL WAR CIVILIANS SOCIETY OF FLORIDA, out of Florida, is a civilian group that represents families during the American Civil War. Copyright 2023 Copyright 2018 Florida Department of Environmental Protection. Except for reenactment weekend, the Olustee Battlefield Historic State Park is a peaceful rural site through which the Florida National Scenic Trail passes. We have loaner gear and will be honored to get you started. We primarily portray Company D of the 2nd . Olustee Battlefield Historic State Park commemorates the site of Floridas largest Civil War battle. These groups often focus on reenactment of wars, offering members (and sometimes the public) a glimpse of what life was like during the conflicts that shaped history. Fifteen years later, however, it was out again. Living historians will portray such people as Harriet Tubman and Frederick Douglass. ! While you are there, why not sample some Indianfry bread, kettle corn, and sarsaparilla? My first experience as a living history reenactor was as a volunteer. When looking through our list of reenactment groups, be sure to really think about what is important to you. The Second Seminole War was the setting for theDade Massacre. Posted on Last updated: February 19, 2023, Categories Historic Florida, Northeast Florida. Make sure when you buy your bayonet that you try it on the musket and that it seats firmly and locks into place. Please reach out to me. We are a group of like minded Civil War Units. No matter their size, each civil war reenactment provides a unique opportunity to learn about Americas past. The North Florida Artillerywas incorporated as a non-profit organization in the state of Florida in March 2007. ACivil War Reenactmentis the recreation of past battles for the education and entertainment of both spectators and hobbyists alike. One of their first events was the Southeast Florida Scottish Games in Miami 39 years ago! The 2020 reenactment will take place between February 14 - February 16, 2020. You can do that in two ways: 1) Click on the. Company B is a family orientated Civil War reenacting group that attends events in Pennsylvania, Maryland, Delaware, New Jersey and Virginia primarily. 5815 Battlefield Trail Road The battle ended with 2,807 casualties and the retreat of Union troops to Jacksonville until the war's end just 14 months later. The event roster for the 2021-2022 Civil War and Living History reenacting season is currently posted. Whether you are looking for a unit to join or to invite to your next event, the directory below will have what you are looking for. Today, Civil War reenactments are held all over the United States, and they continue to be a popular way to learn about this significant period in American history. This is the 2023 schedule. Civil War and Living History reenacting season is currently posted. Slouch hats were used by Confederates about 80% of the time. Shelter There are two acceptable forms of shelter for enlisted infantry, the A-Frame tent or the shelter half.The A-frame, or Wedge Tent, was designed to sleep four soldiers during the Civil War, but really will only accommodate two modern-day reenactors comfortably. Sky-blue kersey wool pants can be purchased later if you want to expand your impression. RetreatingAfrican-American soldiers from the Massachusetts 54th Infantry (featured in the 1989 Academy Award-winning movieGlory), in a feat of superhuman strength,pulled a disabled train with cars of wounded soldiers for three miles back to Camp Finnegan. Caution: Milsurpia does not support or condone any extremist, or anti-American organizations or activities. By using this site, you agree to its use of cookies. Construction began in 1672 while Florida was still part of the Spanish Empire, although later it was controlled variously by GreatBritain, the Confederate States, as well as the United States. If you wish to be notified of updates (including the Monthly Newsletter), . Many reenactment groups, museums, and militaria collects accurately portray the history of previous conflicts which may include the display of flags and logos deemed sensitive to some. There are more British in Revolutionary war reenactments and more Nazis in WWII reenactments.. You may also ask to join our Facebook group and post your questions there. The reproductions are made by Armisport (cheapest), Euroarms, and Navy arms (most expensive). The civil war reenactment groups locations can help with all your needs. The actual Battle of Olustee was bloody: One in four men was a casualty, with 2,807 killed, wounded or captured. Gen. Al Hartman,Commander Where: Olustee Battlefield State Historic Park: is located on U.S. 90, 13 miles east of Lake City and 50 miles west of Jacksonville. The Leon Rifles are American Civil War reenactors who have formed an organization that does Living History as a hobby. A Civil War Reenactment will have various units such as artillery, cavalry, or infantry units. LF reenactment group around the Pensacola, FL area. This website uses cookies to improve your experience. The information in this article was accurate when published but may change without notice. And, on occasion, we have portrayed Union soldiers as the 33rd Indiana Infantry Regiment. There are cavalry runs with horses, pyrotechnics, big guns it looks like a real battle.. The event is huge in scale, put on every year by park staff, volunteers and hundreds of reenactors. The original Fort Foster was built during the Second Seminole War as a military resupply depot and defense forthe bridge crossing on the Hillsborough River. Flint locks were outdated by then. The color should be gray, brown, or some earthy color. Battle of Olustee Reenactment Olustee Battlefield Historic State Park, 5890 Battlefield Trail Road, Sanderson, Florida 32087, US Visit the reenactment of the Battle of Olustee. We have loaner gear and will be honored to get you started. The park is open year-round, 365 days a year from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and a visitor center, trails and monument guide visitors through the battle in February in 1864. More than 10,000 cavalry, infantry and artillery troops fought a five-hour battle in a pine forest near Olustee. North Florida Artillery Historical Foundation, Incorporated, Georgia Division Reenactors Association Roster. A memorial to the Union soldiers was erected at the site of a mass burial of federal soldiers in 1866. Colored Troops took part in the battle, including the now famous 54th . Where:Homeland There is no camping available at Olustee Battlefield State Historic Park:. Here you can find a list of groups that portray the American Civil War period. But as history buffs who enjoy living history rather than just reading about it, The Leon Rifles sometimes portray other soldiers or civilians from the pages of US history. The original Union monument was made of wood that deteriorated, so a replica was recreated at the adjacent cemetery outside the park gates, thought to be its original location. Living history, authentic encampments and reenactors bring Florida history to the forefront during this event at Olustee Battlefield Historic State Park. Pawnee Guard: St. Andrews Bay Salt Works Raid, The Florida Frontier Guards: Seminole War Reenactments, Florida State Parks Living History Events, Copyright document.write(new Date().getFullYear())2021 VISIT FLORIDA. Shirt Latitude is allowed. James Permane began reading about the Civil War at a very young age, finding he was drawn to learn as much as he could about our nations greatest conflict. Even though you will not be firing live rounds, a defective weapon is a danger to you and your file-mates. Colonel Jeff Cushing, Al Hartman Where do you guys get your Black Powder and flints for reactments? Florida Civil War Reenactments CHOOSE MONTH CHOOSE STATE CITY WITHIN MILES SEARCH NOW Add Event MAP Event Schedule Civil War reenactments first began during the Civil War itself, when both Union and Confederate soldiers would stage mock battles in order to train for actual combat. Many reenactment groups, museums, and militaria collects accurately portray the history of previous conflicts which may include the display of flags and logos deemed sensitive to some. They put their cannons and their heart and enthusiasm together in the fall of 2001 at Andersonville, GA. Mike Vogt 515-252-4531, Michael.vogt@iowa.gov. Its not even past.). You may use this event information any way you see fit, all I ask is that you give credit to the Florida Reenactors Online News Magazine. The reenactment of the St. Andrews Bay Salt Works Raid is oneof Floridasnewer living history events. The Florida Civil War reenactment of the Battle of Olustee includes gun smoke, booming cannons and cavalry at Olustee Battlefield State Historic Park. Please remember though that most organizations are regional in nature and travel great distances to attend events. I, Eighth Regiment Connecticut Volunteers, Company A, Incorporated, 11th Regiment Connecticut Volunteer Infantry, Company G, Fourteenth Regiment Connecticut, Van Dyke's Howitizers 1st Florida Artillery. Yes, the Confederates may have won the Battle of Olustee, but America won the war.. Overlooks and stops of interest tie together a rich story along this corridor. Thread starter Uilleam; Start date Aug 10, 2018; U. Uilleam . When:First full weekendin January(open to the public Saturday and Sunday). More than 10,000 cavalry, infantry and artillery troops fought a five-hour battle in a pine forest near Olustee. New recruits are always welcome! The first major public reenactment was held in 1911 to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Battle of Gettysburg. The re-enactment group just celebrated 33 years as a re-enactment regiment. So, a few years ago, when the Sons of Union Veterans of the Civil War asked to place a more prominent Union memorial within the park boundaries, people objected, partly because the United Daughters of the Confederacy originally donated the park land to Florida. Either one of these will cost approximately $450 $500 new. We enjoy portraying members of both sides of the war as a tribute to our heritage from the north and the south. Olustee isnt a particularly famous battle; only Civil War buffs probably have heard of it. A reenactment is held every February. Barbara Witt Battle Cry of Freedom: The Civil War Era is a Pulitzer Prize-winning work on the American Civil War. I have attended the reenactment of the Battle of Olustee twice. Hello very one. Notes: We are currently following the 160th Anniversay events and invite you to join us! Tearing down Confederate statues is like the Taliban blowing up the Great Buddha statues in Afghanistan, or ISIS destroying archaeological sites in Iraq. Gold Head is located on rolling sandhills on the north central ridge of Florida with one of the few remaining examples of an old-growth stand of longleaf pines. You will be doing a lot of walking in these shoes as an infantryman and you should be sure that they fit well WITH a heavy pair of wool socks on. Free bus shuttle service is provided from the Dowling Center, 1.5 miles EAST of the Battlefield on U.S. 90,directly across from the Baker County Correctional Institutional. The living history weekend features a Civil War-era battle reenactment on Saturday at 1:30 p.m., as well as the reenactment of the Battle of Olustee on Sunday at 1:30 p.m. Period music concerts and crafts, lectures, battlefield surgical practices and the lives of both white and black civilians during the war are portrayed by reenactors. List of Florida Union Civil War units. You can do that in two ways: 1) Click on the READ HERE every day and enjoy the history or 2) Join us in camp and experience the war first-hand. Not a necessity but generally part of the standard kit. Thus over 2,200 Floridians served in Union units. . History comes alive every February at the annual Civil War Reenactment of the Battle of Olustee. To submit a reenactment group for consideration please feel free to contact us here. Where:Dade Battlefield Historic State Park,Bushnell Reenactors of both Confederate and Union forces can be found all over and are always looking for new members to take up arms.