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Current 11th Texas Cavalry Field & Staff
The Regiment Now A Brief History of Civil War Reenacting In 1975, Craig White, a descendent of several members of Co. A of the 11th Texas Cavalry, was approached by a Boy Scout troop wishing to become involved in Civil War reenacting. Craig had already opened “The Civil War Museum” in Spring, Texas. He then reestablished the 11th Texas Cavalry, and designated the museum as “Outpost 11”, a place for the scouts to come, learn history and the hobby of reenacting. Over time the 11th has grown into a family organization, open to all who have an interest. The 11th still drills, does events at, and financially supports the museum. The 11th Texas Cavalry was registered as a Texas non-profit organization in 1998 and formally became a 501c(3) organization in 2004.
In 1999, the 11th Texas organized the first “Civil War Weekend at Liendo Plantation” event, which includes a living history school day on Friday for students to participate in. The event is held the weekend before Thanksgiving each year. November 2008 celebrated the 10th annual event.
Each year the 11th participates in a series of events throughout Texas and Louisiana, including the Red River Campaign in Pleasant Hill, LA. The 11th travels east each year to participate in one large national event. These have included Gettysburg, Shiloh, Corinth, Antietam, Chickamauga, Wilson’s Creek and more. We participate and support local heritage day festivals including Bellville, TX, and the Gen. Sam Houston Festival in Huntsville, TX. We also work with the History department at Sam Houston State University, putting on Living History demonstrations for students and teachers. We have also given grants to SHSU students through the Webb Society. The 11th also travels to local middle and elementary schools and performs living history events.
The Galvanized 11th - The 11th always “brings the blue” to events, as we never know if we may be called upon to portray a Federal unit. In the case of the 11th, being Texans, it was easy to pick the 1st Texas US Volunteer Cavalry, which served primarily in Louisiana during, and in Texas at the close of the war. At major national events, we have portrayed Buford’s Dismounted Cavalry (Gettysburg) and Wilder’s Brigade (Chickamauga) just to name a few. Below is information on this regiment.
The 1st TX US Vol. Cavalry organized at New Orleans, La., November 6, 1862. Attached to Independent Command, Dept. of the Gulf, to January 1863. Defenses of New Orleans to May 1863. Cavalry, 19th Army Corps, Dept. of the Gulf.
SERVICE.-Duty in the Defenses of New Orleans, La., till September, 1863. Sabine Pass Expedition September 4-11. Western Louisiana ("Teche") Campaign October 3-17. Nelson's Bridge, near New Iberia, October 4. Vermillion Bayou October 9-10. Carrion Crow Bayou October 14-15. Ordered to New Orleans, La., October 17. Expedition to the Rio Grande, Texas, October 23-December 2. Occupation of Brazos Santiago November 2, and of Brownsville November 6 Duty at Brownsville and on line of the Rio Grande till July, 1864. Rancho las Rinas June 26, 1864 (Cos. "A" and "C"). Ordered to New Orleans July, thence to Morganza, La., August 6, and duty there till November. (A Detachment remained in Texas at Brownsville till January, 1865. Participated in skirmish at Palmetto Ranch September 6, 1864. Ordered to join Regiment at Baton Rouge, La., January 27, 1865.) Operations about Morganza September 16-25, 1864. Williamsport September 16. Atchafalaya River September 17. Bayou Alabama and Morgan's Ferry September 20. Ordered to Baton Rouge November 19. Davidson's Expedition against Mobile & Ohio Railroad November 27-December 13. Ordered to Lakeport December 17. United States Forces at mouth of White River and at Baton Rouge, La., till May, 1865. Expedition to Clinton and the Comite River March 30-April 2, 1865. Ordered to Vidalia, District of Natchez, Miss., May 23, 1865, and duty there till June 29. Ordered to Military District of the Southwest and duty in Texas till November. Mustered out November 4, 1864.
Reenacting as a Hobby A Civil War Veteran’s Comments
Who knows but it may be given to us, after this life, to meet again in the old quarters, to play chess and draughts, to get up to answer the morning roll call, to fall in at the tap of the drum for drill and dress parade, and again to hastily don our war gear while the monotonous patterns of the long roll summons us to battle?
Who knows but again the old flags, ragged and torn, snapping in the wind, may face each other and flutter, pursuing and pursued, while the cries of victory fill a summer day? And after the battle, the wounded and slain will arise and all will meet together under the two flags, all sound and well and there will be talking and laughter; and cheers, and all will say, "Did it not seem real? Was it not as in the old days?” Pvt. Berry Benson 1st South Carolina Rifles Regiment Berry Benson’s Reminiscences of the Civil War
Origins of the Hobby Did you know that the very first re-enactors were Civil War era soldiers? During the war, there was only one way to get recruits used to the din of battle, and that was to “choose up” sides, load blank cartridges and have what was called a Sham (make-believe) Battle.
At the end of the nineteenth century, old veterans in civilian attire would get together at reunions and retrace their steps over the same ground they had fought across as young men. At the 50th anniversary of Gettysburg, the then 70-80 year old vets re-created Picket’s Charge for the crowd. The clash at the angle got so enthusiastic that Park Rangers had to separate them to keep them from beating each other bloody with their canes.
A Documented Account of a Confederate Sham Battle… “February 2nd,1862; made camp near Linn Creek, on account of rain and snow had to lay over another day till finally on February 7th we reached Lebannon, the rendezvous of the other divisions of our army.
February 8th; the whole forces engaged in a sham battle and on the 9th, started out as the right wing of the Army of South West Missouri under the command of Jeff C. Davis -- Company "A" being advance guard -- by noon we fell in with some of General Sigel's troops, forming the center, while General C. Carr with his command formed the left.“
20th Century Reenacting Beginning in the early twentieth and continuing into the 1930’s, the U.S. army "fought" U.S. Marines in war games held on Civil War battlefields using contemporary weapons, but loosely following the movements and strategies of the original armies.
In the 1960’s, preparing for the 100th anniversaries, our modern day predecessors formed into units to re-enact the major battles in the East, and “the hobby” was formed. There were no “Sutlers” as we know them now; most carried original weapons, wearing WWI surplus accoutrements and blue jeans in place of sky blues. We’ve come a long way since then towards authenticity in uniforms, accoutrements and camping gear; again, more on this later.
Strategic vs. Tactical Dismounted Cavalry.The 11th Texas Cavalry, Co. A portrays a strategically dismounted unit. In the 1860’s, with the advent of modern artillery, bursting shells and canister shot, the glory days of open field cavalry charges were over. Yes a few occurred during the war, and a few were successful, but remember, in the history of this war, to every general rule there are always many exceptions.
Cavalry in the Civil War was used for several functions. Scouting, being the eyes and ears of the army was one such role. Another was rear guard. Cavalry could take a position at the rear of a retreating army, dismount, hold any following troops at bay, then re-mount, catch up to their own forces and dismount again. Cavalry could also be used to disrupt enemy supply lines and capture material.
The above-mentioned activity of dismounting and fighting on foot is a tactical maneuver. During the war, Generals Forrest, Wheeler and a few others saw a need, and began using strategically dismounted cavalry. Entire regiments of cavalry had their horses taken away, and others were organized and never had horses. They marched and fought entirely on foot. Such units were well trained in the arts of skirmishing and rapid deployment and were used as shock troops, supporting the infantry. The 11th Texas Cavalry began its career as mounted cavalry, was dismounted for one year, and then re-mounted for the remainder of the war.
Who are you? What do you want to do? What do you want to achieve? This is a demanding hobby, mentally and physically and financially. It draws people from every walk of life. From construction workers, welders, teachers, doctors, lawyers, it also draws individuals and families. What draws these people varies as widely as their professions. Some come to honor an ancestor, some are just fascinated by history, or the Victorian era. Some are out of the military and looking for the camaraderie they are missing in civilian life. Some are teachers and this hobby makes their studies come alive for them.
This writing talks mainly of a specific cavalry impression, but the hobby contains literally hundreds of niche impressions. The primary military impressions being Cavalry, Infantry, and Artillery personnel, there are Medical impressions, washerwomen, blacksmiths, ferriers, preachers, weavers, spinners, school marms and more. Just as in the modern world, there was a whole world of people and livelihoods.
If you wish to move up in this hobby (militarily), it takes three things, time, talent and treasure. Treasure means that as a leader, you must be able to support your own needs. Getting to and from events (and attending the majority of them), having your own gear and not having to borrow anything is just the beginning.
It takes years to understand the way the hobby works and how to best fit in. It also takes time (maybe a lifetime) to understand all the military (hobby and historical) aspects, and be able to apply them effectively on a battlefield. It also helps to read extensively on the period to understand a wide variety of perspectives on issues and events, which occurred.
Talent is required to lead people effectively as a group. First, you must want to take on this responsibility. Second, you must be able to apply the golden rule and exhibit sound principles of leadership. You must also have exceptional communication and organizational skills, patience, fairness and firmness. If you do not have these skills, and more, you will not rise in the ranks.
What do you get out of this hobby? I have seen all kinds of people come and go in this hobby looking for a way to make it profitable. Few, if any, ever succeed. Personal fulfillment is the only reason to get involved and stay. It may be the learning experience, the ability to share the experience with others, a combination of both, or the friendships made and the camaraderie of camp. Whatever the cause that made you get involved, that and new found knowledge will keep you hooked once you start your journey.
11th Texas Cavalry Uniform & Equipment Requirements The 11th Texas, Co. A is a strategically dismounted cavalry unit. The difference between a mounted and a dismounted unit in their appearance is... you guessed it... there ain't no horse! Otherwise, with a few exceptions, the rest of the impression is the same. One thing to understand about reenacting the Civil War is that almost no two companies were uniformed the same way. This becomes very important when you understand that there were not only differences between the different uniforms during the period, but there are also differences among manufacturers today.
11th Texas State Troops Impression
When contemplating a purchase, the second most important thing to remember is knowing whether it is required, or can it wait, or, do you need it at all? Many times, a newcomer into the hobby will purchase something because it looks nice or happens to strike their fancy. We suggest that certain items be bought first, and some groups of items be bought all from only one Sutler or manufacturer.
Order of Acquisition: Uniforms: · Coat: Union: Blue, four-button sack coat Confederate: Bummer/Sack, five-button, jeancloth, black trim · Pants: Union: Sky blue wools Confederate: Black duck · Braces: To hold up you britches · Shirt: Your choice Shirts were not issued on either side. Calicos, muslin, just about any period shirt is ok, stay away from “firemen’s” shirts
Things you can add later on down the road are: · Vests, cravat, gloves, etc… the list goes on
1. Hat:
2. Boots/Brogans: As a strategically dismounted cavalryman, you will be doing a lot of walking. A pair of comfortable period brogans is your best bet. Later, a pair of cavalry boots can be added for dress and other occasions. Boots always need to be tried on, so it’s best to buy them from a Sutler at an event. They are seldom cheap unless made so. Socks, wool socks from a Sutler are OK, modern wool blend hiking boot socks that wick moisture work better. They look fairly period, and keep the feet healthier.
3. Belt and Accoutrements: A good saddle leather belt is required, remember, black works both ways, and with a two-prong garrison style buckle, you won't have to change it out. A cartridge box, and a cap pouch are also required. We do a lot of firing on the field, so an infantry style cartridge box is best, as they hold more rounds. 4. Haversack: Natural of tarred duck Contents to acquire… mug, plate, knife and fork.
5. Carbine, Pistol and Saber: In that order. There are some very expensive carbines on the market. Remember, you will use this carbine and it will not stay pretty. Get a moderately priced one unless you don't care about price. Sawed-off shotguns are acceptable, as the 11th did ride out with them, and they are a less expensive option. However, some events, especially national ones, don't allow shotguns no matter how historically correct they are. Buy a quality pistol as you will not be happy with a cheap one. Sooner or later, you will probably want to "Live Fire" it and cheap ones will not last. Buy pistols with steel frames not brass frames. Sabers are the least important on our list. As strategically dismounted cavalry you wouldn’t have one on the battlefield. If you want one, a good medium price one will suffice. (don't get a cheapie with a nut on the end) and why pay through the nose for something you'll only use at... weddings?. On the field, the only people carrying one will be Officers.
The 1st Texas US Volunteer Cavalry, 19th Corps, Red River Campaign, Pleasant Hill, LA
6. Bedroll and Poncho: A good heavy wool blanket to sleep on and under is essential. The poncho can be added later… usually at your first "wet" event. BUT! I've been to events where it was not supposed to rain, and when the skies opened up, the Sutlers ran out fast. I bought one and dragged it along for six months before it rained again, but boy was I happy I had it when it finally happened. Even in fair weather it is great to have as a ground cover under your blanket. It keeps away the damp and cold.
7. Tent: If you have a family, you will have to consider a wall tent, if not, the standard tent of the unit is the A-frame. It will fit two people. When you come to your first events, we will put you in with a veteran who does not have a bunkmate. Look for a good used tent to begin with. Ask your commanders to point you in the right direction.
8. Homemade versus Sutlers: Yes, if you have the ability and the time, there is a certain enjoyment that comes from using something you made with your own hands. Some of our company members make some of their items, and there are lots of ladies out there that sew period shirts and vests and such… oh, and by the way… dresses too, for your lady-friend.
Things to Remember Don't buy anything until you are sure of your purchase, the Sutler, and the price range. Buy quality the first time. Always ask one of the company members to help you. When you are not sure, wait until you are.
Follow company authenticity standards, don't establish your own. Know what you want. Deal with recommended Sutlers that have been suggested by someone in your company.
Sallie Forth Well, you’re now properly uniformed, accoutered and armed with all this information, where do you go from here? Look at the impressions that have been discussed. At events spend time in the various encampments and ask questions. You will find the people in this hobby are more than ready and willing to “show you the ropes” and you will feel their excitement and enthusiasm as they have “seen the elephant” and as yet, you haven’t.
During the war “Seeing the Elephant” was a term used for veterans having been in battle. For Living Historians, the term refers to having that moment, when it seems to all your senses that… you are really there.
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Always check with the commanding officer or unit veteran before making a purchase. 