FIRST MASSACHUSETTS
 CAVALRY

The First Massachusetts Volunteer Cavalry  is much more than a group in uniform who reenact battles. Through living  history interpretation and presentation, we attempt to portray citizens and soldiers of the Civil War era. We participate in patriotic and historical events throughout New England and points south. Our activities encourage patriotism, knowledge of our national history, and the honor due it. We are well known and welcomed for our enthusiasm, effort, and authenticity.

 
In past years, the 1st Mass. Cavalry has participated in many major events, such as the 135th and 140th anniversary reenactments of Antietam, 135th Gettysburg, Cedar Creek, and Grant vs. Lee/Brandy Station. Local events in New England have included Fort Warren on Georges Island; Voss Farm in Uxbridge; the U.S.S. Constitution Park Civil War Days; Hammonassett State Park in Connecticut; Springfield Armory Living History weekend; Rochester, Massachusetts; Monroe Village in Monroe, New York; and Neshaminy State Park in Pennsylvania. Individual troopers or civilians have given school presentations and other living history programs as invited.  Members of the unit regularly participate in Remembrance Day memorial activities at Gettysburg in November.

In 2000, the 1st Mass. Cavalry was again  invited to participate in a living history weekend at the Springfield Armory as well as attending the annual reenactments at such locations as Recon on the Rappahanock in Virginia; Rochester, Sutton, and Borderland (Easton), Massachusetts.

The 1st Mass. Cavalry  joined the United States Volunteers (USV) as full members in 1999. In major events we will be brigaded with the 2nd US Cavalry, as well as the 3rd Pennsylvania and other USV cavalry units.  At New England events, other local units, such as the 6th Michigan Cavalry and the 6th Massachusetts Infantry, may brigade with us.

Performing competently as a dismounted cavalry trooper takes training and practice. At all unit events there is military drill. Skills honed during training sessions include the carbine manual of arms, revolver manual of arms, saber drill, period marching elements and formations, and skirmish formations and tactics. Combat simulations are an extension of skirmish tactics.
 

Members of the 1st Massachusetts Volunteer Cavalry, maintain a high degree of military courtesy and discipline at reenactments, drills, and living history programs. This ensures both an authentic portrayal for the public and the optimum safety for all involved. It is understood by all members of the unit that these events require the utmost in safety, training, and cooperation, due to the risks inherent in our activities. 
 

"You don't join the army to get rich!" The Paymaster describes to a group of high school students the amounts that cavalry troopers got paid for their service. This was followed by pay call where students received their monthly wages in reproduction Civil War script.