2005 Stuff you Need
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So you want to be a Civil War Cavalry re-enactor 

If you are thinking about getting into the reenacting hobby there is one important element you cannot get away from, and that is it is an expense hobby. We hope not to discourage you with the costs but you should have an idea of the cost for a cavalry impression. Although everything need not be purchased at once, and in fact it is wiser to check with others before you purchase, the 15th can help in providing some of the more expensive equipment. Recently the unit has purchased two Sharps carbines, and the leather accouterments necessary to field two troopers who have not yet purchased these items.

I have attempted to break down the minimum necessary to take to the field, and those optional items which can be procured as your wallet can afford. The costs sited are representative of what items were selling for in 1996. You will find differences from sutler to sutler (merchant who sells soldiers things they need). You will also find big differences in quality so check with the troop for recommended sutlters. In addition check out the drawings which follow to see what a fully outfitted trooper looks like.

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The Basics ……….
bulletFederal Forage Cap (not to be confused with a kepi) - $30
bulletCavalry Shell Jacket w/yellow trim - $115
bulletPeriod Shirt (regulation white muslin or civilian pattern) - $30
bulletTrousers, sky blue, mounted pattern $75, or foot pattern $65
bulletSuspenders (no elastic here) - $10
bulletSocks, wool (2 pair) - $7/pair
bulletBoots (period style square toe black) $150 - $250
bulletor Brogans (shoes) - $80 - $90
bulletCanteen, blue or tan - $35
bulletTin Cup - $12
bulletTin Plate - $6
bulletPeriod knife, fork, spoon - $15
bulletBlanket , blue or gray - $30
bulletRubber blanket (ground cover) or poncho - $35
bulletTotal so far ………………….. $620 minimum

The above uniform and equipment will allow you to participate in Living History events, and Encampments.

The 15th Cavalry has 4 - 6x6x9 foot tents which we provide for new recruits until they can get there own tent. In addition, we have candle lamps, and tables for the general camp.

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The next step or "So you want to participate in the battles …………………."
bulletFederal saber belt with buckle - $65
bulletSharps carbine - $475 - $500
bulletCarbine sling and swivel snap - $45
bulletCarbine cartridge box - $40
bulletCap pouch - $18
bulletBlack powder - $10/can, caps $8/can, paper tubes or make your own - $12
bulletTotal so far ……………………$1,253

This equipment, along with all of the basics will allow you to participate as a dismounted trooper in all living history encampments, parades, and battles.

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Other equipment which would be nice, but can be acquired as time goes by ………………….
bulletRevolver (Colt or Remington) $100 and up
bulletRevolver holder - $30
bulletSabre (1860 light cavalry) - $100
bulletHat insignias (crossed saber's, "15", "L") - $6
bulletSpurs brass w/straps - $30
bulletGauntlets (gloves) - $25 and up
bulletTent (w/stakes and poles) - $120
bulletLantern - $20
bulletGrand total ……………………..$1,684

Oh…….if you want to participate mounted (assuming you have a horse), add another $800 for a period saddle (can't participate without one).

Well that about covers it but if you want more stuff, there is no end of sutlers that will take your money for anything the original fella's actually had, and some they didn't.

trooper1.gif (45195 bytes)   trooper2.gif (50098 bytes)Click on images to the right for a full size picture

    Click on images to the right for a full size picture

 

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Last modified: April 05, 2005