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Facts
for Member Applicants
We are a group of amateur historians who devote a good deal of our time
to historic research on Colonial America, particularly the period of the
American Revolution. We portray an actual Maryland regiment - one that
British historians describe as the best in the Continental Line! Our members
are willing to devote a great deal of time and attention to their hobby
as we reenact the camp life, tactics, drill, and combat of the third quarter
of the 18th century. We normally do this on weekends - Friday night through
Sunday afternoon. We live as soldiers and campfollowers did in the 18th
century, and anyone joining the 1MR should share these likes and be able
to assimilate to these ways
HOW DOES ONE JOIN?
All applicants must fill out and submit an application for membership.
Once your application has been received, a member of the unit will contact
you and let you know about upcoming events and, if you like, you may join
us for a weekend. If you enjoy this experience and wish to pursue your
application for membership, you must attend a total of three events over
a six month period. Submitting an application for membership indicates
one’s willingness to comply with 1MR rules and standards. Dues are
currently $15.00 per year for individual membership and $25.00 per year
for family membership; these must be submitted to the Treasurer by 01
April of each year.
HOW IS THE 1MR ORGANIZED?
The First Maryland Regiment is a non-profit, educational institution which
is incorporated in the State of Maryland. Board members and Field Officers
are voted in every two years by the members. The Administrative Board
consists of the President, Vice-President, and Secretary/Treasurer. We
also have three Field Officer positions: Captain, Lieutenant, and Ensign.
No salaries are paid to any of our officers.
WHAT HAPPENS IN CAMP?
Members are encouraged to remain “18th century” all weekend.
Soldiers drill and perform camp chores; they also stand guard and participate
in battle reenactments. Anyone reenacting a soldier must be present, in
proper uniform, for all formations and work assignments unless excused
by an officer. The Distaff will be assigned duties by the Ensign or senior
NCO. Children must be dressed out and made to behave while in camp; if
old enough, they are expected to help with camp chores. Members must be
prepared to discuss history with the public but must state only historic,
documentable facts. All members are expected to assist in setting up and
breaking down the campsite.
The consumption of alcoholic beverages, in moderation, is allowed in
camp after hours when the public is not present and if the consumption
thereof is not prohibited by the site . Drunkenness, vulgarity, and causing
an annoyance is grounds for dismissal from the regiment. THE USE OF ANY
ILLEGAL DRUG OR NARCOTIC IS FORBIDDEN AT ALL TIMES. ANYONE CAUGHT DOING
SO WILL BE EXPELLED FROM THE 1MR IMMEDIATELY.
Members may not smoke cigarettes in camp. Those who use tobacco (t’is
but an Indian weed) should do so in a period-appropriate manner.
WHAT DO I NEED AND WHAT DOES IT COST?
As with any hobby, certain supplies are necessary. Enclosed are a listing
of items needed by soldiers planning to take the Private’s Test
as well as clothing guidelines for distaff and children. Although the
1MR makes every effort to assist new members with their clothing and equipment
needs, it is expected that members will have made or purchased all personal
equipment within one year. Personal equipment includes, in addition to
clothing, such items as musket, bayonet, cartridge box, canteen, fife,
drum, bedding, etc. The 1MR furnishes equipment that is shared by all,
such as tents and cooking gear. Members will be most pleased to guide
you in the selection of your kit. Any 20th /21st century gear must be
hidden or removed when the camp is open to the public.
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ITEMS NEEDED TO
PASS THE PRIVATE’S TEST FOR
THE FIRST MARYLAND REGIMENT
Of course, you need more than just your equipment to
pass.
A private-to-be must pass the equipment check,
an oral exam about the original First Maryland and, finally,
a drilling exam.
• Eating Utensils
• Haversack
• Shoes
• Pants (overalls or breeches)
• Shirt
• Waistcoat
• Stockings
• Hunting Frock
• Canteen
• Blanket
• Hat (cap and military)
• Regimental (Lottery Coat)
• Musket (Charleville or Bess)
• Bayonet
• Belt
• Musket Tool
• Wood Flint
• Wood Cartridge
• Cartridge Box
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