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FIRST
MASSACHUSETTS
CAVALRY
Enlistment Information
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Background |
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the First Massachusetts |
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Bethel, New York, May 1996 |
Requirements to Join
Thank you for expressing an interest in our organization. The 1st MVC portrays primarily a dismounted cavalry unit. Owning a horse is not a requirement for membership. However, mounted members are welcomed and will allow us to more accurately portray our unit historical role.Enlistment in the 1st MVC is subject to approval of all voting members following a probationary period. Full voting membership is granted after successful completion of the probationary period, which includes attendance at three unit events. Recruits must agree to purchase uniforms and equipment that conform to the guidelines set by the unit to ensure maximum uniformity. Military recruits are enlisted as privates (or troopers). Our rank structure is very small. Promotions must be earned and voted on by the other military members. Members who wish to portray civilian roles must dress in period clothing of the early 1860s.
We have an Annual Meeting in January or early February and participate in various events and activities throughout the year. Please feel welcome to attend a unit meeting or seek us out at one of the events. If you would like more information, we would be honored to mail you an application packet. Just email us via the link at the bottom of the page. Include your name, address, phone number, and age. For safety reasons, no military recruits under 16 will be allowed. Other members under 16 years of age must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
Dues
Recruits who are accepted into probationary status are assessed an initial fee of $25. Only one fee per family is required. This fee is non-refundable.Annual unit dues are $25 per individual, $40 for family, $20 for students, and $10 for non-voting associates.
Uniforms and Equipment Cost Estimates
Reenacting is not an inexpensive hobby. Recruits are strongly urged not to purchase uniforms and equipment prior to joining. The unit maintains a limited amount of "spare" clothing and equipment for use by recruits who are acquiring their own materials. Our links page contains addresses and/or web links for several recommended suppliers. A more complete list will be provided to all recruits upon enlistment. If you require information on horse tack and mounted cavalry equipment, please contact us.
The items listed below are those needed for a basic impression in approximate order of priority. There are other items you will need as your participation in unit activities increases. We stress that members buy quality items that will give many years of service, rather than the less pleasing and cheaper items that do not last. Please do not be intimidated by the total outlay. Items can be purchased "as you go." However, the sooner the basics are acquired, your enjoyment of the hobby will be greatly enhanced.
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Estimated Prices |
| Cap, Forage (dark blue), with brass insignia | $55 |
| Coat, Sack Type (dark blue) | $85 |
| Trousers, Mounted Pattern (kersey [light] blue) | $85 to $105 |
| Brogans or Boots (price depends on type) | $85 and up |
| Suspenders | $14 |
| Period Shirt (1850s-1860s, various colors) | $20 to $45 |
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| Canteen with cover | $52 |
| Sabre Belt w/boxes (Carbine cartridge, Pistol cartridge,
Cap pouch, Pistol holster) |
$160 |
| Tarred Haversack | $45 |
| Poncho | $45 |
| Period eye glasses (if needed) | variable |
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| Sidearm: M1860 Colt, Army, .44 cal., blued; or Model 1858 Remington, Army, .44 cal., blued |
$175 to $425 $175 to $425 |
| Military Sharps Carbine (N/SSA approved) with associated gear | $760 |
| Carbine Sling & Snap Hook | $35 & $28 |
| Cavalry Sabre | $75 |
| Gauntlets | $45 |
| Shelter Half (it takes two halves to make a full tent) | $55+ |
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| Tin Cup, heavy duty type | $14 |
| Tin Plate, 10-inch diameter | $8 |
| Eating Utensils | variable |
| Wool blanket(s) | $75+ |
| Greatcoat | $180 |
| Spurs | $45 |
Unit command has designated some sutlers as preferred for certain items because these merchants have shown consistent good quality, good pricing, and good accuracy in their products. Unit members have purchased items from these companies and have been quite satisfied. This is not an inclusive list. There are many companies selling excellent CW reproduction gear in many price ranges. Your mileage may vary. Please, always consult the unit commander or another experienced unit member before making a significant outlay of money for any expensive items!
Uniforms - Historic Clotheirs, Nick Sekela, County Cloth, Charlie Childs, Stephanie Waldron, Chris Daley, C&D Jarnagin Co.
Boots - Missouri Boot and Shoe, Bob Serio, C&D Jarnagin Co.
Forage Cap - Brad Keune, Dirty Billy, C&D Jarnagin Co.
Canteen - C&D Jarnagin Co.
Haversack - Artifakes, Don Rademacher, C&D Jarnagin Co.
Leather Gear - Border State Leatherworks, Doug Kidd, Frank Burgess, C&D Jarnagin & Co.
Shirts - Shirts by Jessica
Carbine - Navy Arms, Dixie Gun Works, Cabela's
Pistol - Cabela's
Sabre - Cabela's
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| Historical Background of the First MA Cav | Links to Related Civil War Sites |
| The Ladies of the First Massachusetts | Quizzicals |
Dispatches for the unit may be sent to
FirstMACav@aol.com
(Last Updated February 2004)