Enlistment.
We are always looking for recruits, whether they be fresh fish or veterans looking for something new. Anyone interested should read through the FAQs below then fill out the form at the bottom of this page. We insist that if you’re interested, you should come out to an event and participate with us. Don’t worry, for the first few events we will lend you gear to get you started and help you along the way. We are convinced that anyone that comes out will soon find themselves hooked. You will experience what it was to eat, sleep, fight, and live like a soldier on campaign. And, as long as you understand some of the hardships, you will have fun from start to finish, we guarantee it.
Permanent membership in the unit is secured by the unanimous approval of the Company. The purpose of this is to retain maximum unit cohesion, the personality of the unit, and to secure the continuity of our established core values.
Consideration for membership is generally based upon the recruit’s:
- Effort put forth in the impression
- Enthusiasm for the hobby and history
- Event preparedness,
- Respect of safety rules and,
- Camp character.
Permanent membership in the unit is secured by the unanimous approval of the Company. The purpose of this is to retain maximum unit cohesion, the personality of the unit, and to secure the continuity of our established core values.
Consideration for membership is generally based upon the recruit’s:
- Effort put forth in the impression
- Enthusiasm for the hobby and history
- Event preparedness,
- Respect of safety rules and,
- Camp character.
“The men should be veterans of established reputation for faithful and reliable dependence while in action; capable of enduring the extra hardships expected to be entailed, and also a proper use of the rifle.”
- Capt. John E. Laughton, Adjutant
- Capt. John E. Laughton, Adjutant
Frequently Asked Questions.
Some of the more commonly asked questions from new recruits:
What do I do if I want to give the Mahone’s Sharpshooters a try?
Please read through the following information then fill out the form at the bottom of this page, we will get in touch with you as soon as possible. All the forms are processed by the Company 1st Sergeant, who will then contact you with follow-up information and answer any questions.
Do I have to campaign?
The short answer: Yes. Originally the unit only experimented with campaigning, but fast found it to their liking, and we think many recruits will too. We typically camp with a tent fly at most, but more likely some combination of oil cloths, gum blankets, or simply bivouacing, depending on the weather, circumstances, and the disposition of the enemy. This is the style of reenacting that defines us and the Confederate soldier on campaign.
On that note, what is "campaigning"?
Campaigning describes the soldier constantly on the move, unburdened by excess baggage or equipment, carrying with him the bare essentials so he can fulfill his primary purpose: fighting. This style of reenacting best portrays the typical Confederate soldier in the field. Campaigners lack all creature comforts, and aside from their military accouterments, their baggage will merely consist of a haversack with rations, canteen, tin cup, and a bed roll with personal affects thrown over the shoulder. If you can't carry it, you don't need it.
Where do you typically reenact?
We seem to get many requests from prospective recruits that live far outside our normal operating area. The unit mainly operates in the northern mid-atlantic region, essentially encompassing the states of Virginia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and southern New York. One might consider how far they are willing to travel if they live outside of those areas, and how long they can stay committed to reenacting with us while consistently traveling far.
What kind of events do you typically attend?
Owing to the interest and enjoyment of members, we aim predominantly for small to medium sized events, spanning all walks of the reenacting spectrum. However, as a unit we have almost entirely resolved to avoid the hustle and bustle of most large "national" events, feeling more at home with a community of reeactors, rather than a metropolis. Luckily if that is what you are looking for, there are many choices of units and we will gladly get you pointed in the right direction.
Can I bring my family or wife along?
While there are many units that are family-friendly, we are strictly military in nature and cannot provide for, nor allow soldiers' families or wives in camp, as per period decorum.
Can females join as soldiers?
As far as females serving discreetly in uniform; while yes, there is documented evidence of this occurring, we feel that their extremely limited numbers do not permit us to portray such an occurrence with our small numbers. Thus unfortunately we cannot accept female recruits.
How many events do I have to attend per year to be a member?
We ask that you attend as many as possible. Currently, there is no specific requirement, once you’re voted in and have a full kit, you are good to go as far as we’re concerned. If it’s obvious you’re not showing for, lets say, a year and no one has heard from you, don’t expect to be consulted about unit matters, thats all. We will not haggle, bribe, beg, or negotiate for your participation. We try to keep the internal unit bureaucracy at a minimum while maintaining camaraderie; you do your best for the unit and they will do their best for you.
Are there any age restrictions for participating?
Recruits should have attained the age of 18. We feel it is best for both recruit and parent (and lawyer) alike that those falling into the ranks are at least legal adults; essentially the unit is not in a position to be legally responsible for persons under 18 and cannot accept them under our charge. If a father is joining and would like to bring their son, we ask that they be at least 16 and attend all functions together, owing to event restrictions normally placed upon reenactors. On the other end of the spectrum, the unit is mainly made up of members in their mid 20’s and we are accepting of anyone that can keep up with us.
After my first event, if I decide I want to join, do I have to buy my entire equipment kit in one shot?
No. Equipment follows attitude. We recognize the expense involved in buying a complete kit and don’t mind lending gear so long as you progress towards purchasing your own gear. We can assist you in prioritizing what to obtain and which sutler(s) to purchase from. Loaner gear however is not an excuse to be a spendthrift or slow in purchasing your own equipment, it is also a bit limited in selection and quality.
Once I become a member do I have to pay dues?
We currently do not require dues to be a member. There are however, registration fees for events, typically $5-10 per soldier, which should be paid back to the person who registered the unit, usually the LT or 1Sgt.
What about food at a reenactment? Do you have a Company mess?
Unless organized prior to an event, members are responsible for their own rations, and we try our best to keep them period. Veterans should be consulted about what food to bring, remember, there are no coolers, ovens, or cast iron anything. From time to time the mess will share large rations of meat and/or produce, diving the load amongst everyone. Most questions about rations will be answered leading up to a particular event.
What do I do if I want to give the Mahone’s Sharpshooters a try?
Please read through the following information then fill out the form at the bottom of this page, we will get in touch with you as soon as possible. All the forms are processed by the Company 1st Sergeant, who will then contact you with follow-up information and answer any questions.
Do I have to campaign?
The short answer: Yes. Originally the unit only experimented with campaigning, but fast found it to their liking, and we think many recruits will too. We typically camp with a tent fly at most, but more likely some combination of oil cloths, gum blankets, or simply bivouacing, depending on the weather, circumstances, and the disposition of the enemy. This is the style of reenacting that defines us and the Confederate soldier on campaign.
On that note, what is "campaigning"?
Campaigning describes the soldier constantly on the move, unburdened by excess baggage or equipment, carrying with him the bare essentials so he can fulfill his primary purpose: fighting. This style of reenacting best portrays the typical Confederate soldier in the field. Campaigners lack all creature comforts, and aside from their military accouterments, their baggage will merely consist of a haversack with rations, canteen, tin cup, and a bed roll with personal affects thrown over the shoulder. If you can't carry it, you don't need it.
Where do you typically reenact?
We seem to get many requests from prospective recruits that live far outside our normal operating area. The unit mainly operates in the northern mid-atlantic region, essentially encompassing the states of Virginia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and southern New York. One might consider how far they are willing to travel if they live outside of those areas, and how long they can stay committed to reenacting with us while consistently traveling far.
What kind of events do you typically attend?
Owing to the interest and enjoyment of members, we aim predominantly for small to medium sized events, spanning all walks of the reenacting spectrum. However, as a unit we have almost entirely resolved to avoid the hustle and bustle of most large "national" events, feeling more at home with a community of reeactors, rather than a metropolis. Luckily if that is what you are looking for, there are many choices of units and we will gladly get you pointed in the right direction.
Can I bring my family or wife along?
While there are many units that are family-friendly, we are strictly military in nature and cannot provide for, nor allow soldiers' families or wives in camp, as per period decorum.
Can females join as soldiers?
As far as females serving discreetly in uniform; while yes, there is documented evidence of this occurring, we feel that their extremely limited numbers do not permit us to portray such an occurrence with our small numbers. Thus unfortunately we cannot accept female recruits.
How many events do I have to attend per year to be a member?
We ask that you attend as many as possible. Currently, there is no specific requirement, once you’re voted in and have a full kit, you are good to go as far as we’re concerned. If it’s obvious you’re not showing for, lets say, a year and no one has heard from you, don’t expect to be consulted about unit matters, thats all. We will not haggle, bribe, beg, or negotiate for your participation. We try to keep the internal unit bureaucracy at a minimum while maintaining camaraderie; you do your best for the unit and they will do their best for you.
Are there any age restrictions for participating?
Recruits should have attained the age of 18. We feel it is best for both recruit and parent (and lawyer) alike that those falling into the ranks are at least legal adults; essentially the unit is not in a position to be legally responsible for persons under 18 and cannot accept them under our charge. If a father is joining and would like to bring their son, we ask that they be at least 16 and attend all functions together, owing to event restrictions normally placed upon reenactors. On the other end of the spectrum, the unit is mainly made up of members in their mid 20’s and we are accepting of anyone that can keep up with us.
After my first event, if I decide I want to join, do I have to buy my entire equipment kit in one shot?
No. Equipment follows attitude. We recognize the expense involved in buying a complete kit and don’t mind lending gear so long as you progress towards purchasing your own gear. We can assist you in prioritizing what to obtain and which sutler(s) to purchase from. Loaner gear however is not an excuse to be a spendthrift or slow in purchasing your own equipment, it is also a bit limited in selection and quality.
Once I become a member do I have to pay dues?
We currently do not require dues to be a member. There are however, registration fees for events, typically $5-10 per soldier, which should be paid back to the person who registered the unit, usually the LT or 1Sgt.
What about food at a reenactment? Do you have a Company mess?
Unless organized prior to an event, members are responsible for their own rations, and we try our best to keep them period. Veterans should be consulted about what food to bring, remember, there are no coolers, ovens, or cast iron anything. From time to time the mess will share large rations of meat and/or produce, diving the load amongst everyone. Most questions about rations will be answered leading up to a particular event.
