NC Militia and Home Guard Guidelines

This is just a brief discussion of the clothing, arms, and equipment necessary for properly outfitting the prospective re-enactor.  Many of the clothing items, weapons, and accoutrements used by the militiamen of the 19th century are available to us from modern day suppliers. 

The N.C. State Militia & Home Guard most often portrays the Civil War years and the years leading up to the war: 1840-1865. Some of our members also participate in programs involving the years from 1770 through the early 1800’s.

In outfitting ourselves as re-enactors of the N.C. State Militia it is important to remember that some items available to militiamen of 1865 were not available prior to 1840. Naturally, there were items that were common in the 1840’s and remained in use, to some extent, through the mid 1860’s. For example, Fall-front trousers were common during the late 18th century, but gradually gave way to the 1840’s button-fly trousers. Today, appropriately styled fall-front and button-fly trousers in various colors and materials are available. 

The 19th century saw little transformation in the shirt styles. The common work shirt worn in earlier periods differed little from that of the mid 1860’s. The loose fitting, blousy-sleeved shirt with a single or multi-button closure was popular for most of the Victorian period. 

In addition to a shirt and trousers, you will need a hat and appropriate footwear. Simple, wool felt, broad brimmed hats or Amish-style straw hats make good choices for our impression. 

Footwear is more expensive and there are a few options from which to choose. From the early 1800’s, the low cut, round toed, black leather, lace-up shoe was common. The brogan, a half boot type work shoe was popular before and during the American Civil War. Boots were less common through the period. They were as expensive then as they are now.

During the 19th Century, men did not appear in public in shirtsleeves (or without a hat). Thus, a mid-19th century vest is a “must have” item and was considered to be the first layer of outer clothing. A light-weight vest is comfortable under a light coat or jacket during the summer and is an added layer of warmth in the winter. 

Like vests, coats of the 1840's to 1860's style will be the best choice. 

Most clothing items can be home made using available patterns. Fabrics consisting of natural fibers are the best choice.

After acquiring the basic clothing, accoutrements will be the next in importance. A haversack or hunting bag (over the shoulder bags) made of cotton, canvas, or linen plus a canteen or water jug should be the next purchase. Items which were carried in the haversack include a tin plate or wooden bowl, tin cup, fork, spoon, pen knife, toothbrush, comb and pencil.

Mid-19th century military and civilian ordnance items (weapons, cartridge boxes, hunting bags, waist belts, should belts, etc.) were used by the militia. These items can be the most expensive aspect of getting started in the hobby. However, the costs need not be prohibitive. By looking at the weapons we display, talking over the choices with our members and reading some of the resources available, these purchases will not be out of reach. 

New members joining our group will be allowed eighteen months or longer, if necessary, to acquire their equipment. Always check with one or more of our experiences members before making any purchases. There are many unauthentic or period incorrect items available on the market.