Help with this Blog

Looking around at some possible things for future endeavors I came across the blog of the Washington County NC Militia. I like how they have it set up and would like to better ours by trying to emulate theirs.

Is anyone out there a computer wizard and could easily do this?

http://washingtoncountyregiment.wordpress.com/2010-regiment-muster-roll/

Back to Civilization

Well I have returned from another trip to Afghanistan. So far I have come up with a training plan which could occupy our time at Martin's Station or possibly a weekend before; recleaned my fowler; and prepared my kit to be rifled thru and sorted and such.

Bledsoe's Colonial Faire is the weekend of 4 May. Martin's Station is the following weekend. The Captain has asked that I come up with some ideas for future colonial activities and I have about 5 sites right now that I want to look at and then throw out there as we look to 2013 full of ranging. Of course many of you will be heavily involved with the CW 150th events but hopefully I can find some close in opportunities for you to wear your latest loin clothes you've purchased.

As you know Mansker's Station is trying out a new schedule this year and the new management doesn't seem to enthusiastic about getting us to come and play. That's ok too. I have been talking to the head of the Board of Directors (a friend of mine) at Rock Castle and he has already voiced his interest in us attending Daniel Smith Days at Rock Castle September 15/16.

I will hopefully post something more interesting in the coming week.

Bledsoe's May 2011

Got these pics and wanted to post for all to see.

One, Two…Buckle My Shoe

This post will be in reference to shoes and leggings. As we now have a family as part of the group I will go into just a little detail on women’s shoes.

Let’s start with leggings as there are basically two materials, canvas being a third, that they will be made of. It is recommended to have both a pair of wool and a pair of leather leggings. The wool was probably as, if not more, prevalent in the area we portray. The construction will be the same…sewn along the outside edge in the fashion of the Savages. You might even want to do some basic bead work along this edge for decoration. The wool will not only offer protection to your lower legs, but also add a bit of warmth in the winter. Leather is more costly so I would suggest beginning with a set of wool leggings. If you prefer to wear the F&I War / Rev War button gaiters I would have to assume they would pass muster for our impression.

There are two basic styles of footwear you should look to purchase. These are the “Buckle Shoes” and center-seam moccasins. The buckle shoes will most likely see a string holding them to your foot; however, you should have a pair of brass buckles for events requiring a more “Dressy” appearance. Brogans are a good choice until you can get a pair of buckle shoes as they were worn. The center-seam moccasins are the correct style for our area and you can further their use through “shoe-packs” and wool linings.

Shoes for the ladies will vary from barefoot (I really wanted to put “and pregnant” here) to moccasins to ornate buckled shoes. Kids of course will mimic the adults.

More Pics from Fall Encampment at Manskers

I apologize for the lack and quality of pictures this time around. I wound up with my daughter's cheap camera and this is some of the better that I got.

From Our Newest Member Steve Shore

Fall 2010 Manskers Station

Canteens

Well its two for one blog day. This is real quick about canteens...gotta have your water. Wood, tin, copper, bota. You have a lot of options. It's pretty much what you like and you may have to try a few different types before you settle on one.

The bota will of course be used on our expeditions down to Fort Charlotte when we portray Spanish militia. Wooden options can be a drum or barrel, and of course the British style kidney in Tin and or copper. Beg, borrow, or appropriate a copy of "Collector's Illustrated Encyclopedia of the American Revolution" and "The Frontier Rifleman" for your many options.