2nd Mass

Regiment

Col. Bailey's

A recreated unit of the American War of Independence

New Recruits

WHAT, ARE YOU NUTS?

So you've decided to join the 2nd Mass...

You are about to take your first step on a journey into the magical world of Living History.

We are a society of friends bonded together by the wonder and excitement of exploring another era in time, as well as a piece of our country’s history, and we welcome you as you join us on our expedition into the origins of our state, our nation, and our Regiment.  On this page, you'll find a number of documents and other resources to assist you in participating in and enjoying this wonderful and exciting hobby.  

Please take the time to read and follow the New Recruit Handbook (linked at right), and, if something is unclear, ask one of the existing members for clarification or help.  We're all in this together!

 

 Quick start guides

New Recruit Handbook

Your First Event

 Other resources

Soldier Checklist

Camp Follower Checklist

2nd Mass Songbook

2nd Mass Bylaws

 Approved sutlers*

Authenticity is very important in presenting believable living history scenarios, and many members eventually decide to sew their own clothing.  Below are some approved resources for fabric and other items you may wish to use for your chosen impression.  Clicking on the buttons will take you directly to the vendor website.

IMPORTANT:  Make sure to reach out to your mentor or other members before making any purchases, to ensure you are choosing wisely.  Please do not purchase a canteen without advice.

"Loaner" clothing & accessories are often available through the Regiment until you are able to put your own "kit" together.

*A "sutler" is an 18th century vendor

Burnley & Trowbridge

Wm Booth, Draper

Royal Blue Traders

Fabrics-store.com

Najecki Reproductions

M. Brenckle, Hatter

Quartermaster General

G. Gedney Godwin

Smiling Fox Forge

Fugawee

Gossville Shoes

Tentsmiths

 

  • Wool, linen & silk fabric, sewing notions, patterns, period neckerchiefs (avoid their new "time traveling" line)

 

  • Wool, linen, printed cotton, hemp & silk fabric, sewing notions, patterns, button molds, linen tape, wool braid.

 

  • Wool broadcloth, garter ribbon, women's silk market bonnets (at events); high quality custom tailoring

 

  • Natural & solid linen fabrics in several weights & finishes

 

  • Highly accurate wool broadcloth in period colors, hand-cast pewter buttons, custom leather goods, linen thread

 

  • Superb hand-made men's wool hats for all impressions & classes, civilian & military

 

  • Breeches & shoe buckles, camp supplies, iron & tinware, musket accouterments, leather goods

 

  • Breeches & shoe buckles, camp supplies, tin lanterns, reproduction muskets, swords & bayonets

 

  • Buckles, camp supplies, tableware, musket supplies, forged iron hooks, camp axes & knives

 

  • Men's & women's footwear, shoe buckles, buttons, stainless steel camp cups

 

  • High-quality handmade men's, women's & children's shoes; children's size exchange program

 

  • Period marquis, wall and wedge tents made of canvas, should you wish to own yours

 Helpful reading

Clicking on each of the titles below will link to the book on Amazon.com:

 A deeper dive

As you get more involved in "The Hobby", you may find yourself wanting more detailed information.  Following are links to well-researched topics on 18th century life:

 For soldiers

This book contains the manual of arms we perform for all Continental Army events (c. 1777 – 1783):

  • "Regulations for the Order and Discipline of the Troops of the United States"
 Recommended viewing

Below is a list of films that are helpful if you see them at least once.  You may wish to see some of them multiple times, if not commit to memory:

  • Monty Python & the Holy Grail
  • The Princess Bride
  • Last of the Mohicans
  • Zulu Dawn
  • Sweet Liberty
  • The Rocky Horror Picture Show