Civilian members of the 42nd Virginia strive to educate ourselves and others about the life and events of the War Between the States. We do this by portraying typical citizens of the mid-19th century. We research the time period and participate in living history events, reenactments, school programs, ceremonial activities, and so on. One important aspect of emulating a 19th century person inolves acquiring appropriate period clothing and accessories. All clothing and accessories are supplied by each civilian member of the 42nd. This can be an expensive venture. Essential for anyone considering taking up the hobby is a list of basic clothing.

The activities available for civilian members of the 42nd Virginia vary from event to event and according to the individual participant's desires. Larger events have focused mainly on military activities; civilian participation is encouraged and usually includes providing company mess for the unit. Cooking period foods over an open fire without modern utensils can be a real challenge! At smaller events, however -- particularly those that the 42nd hosts -- activities can more readily be designed to accommodate the desires of our civilian members and event sponsors.

Civilian activities should be in keeping with what an event sponsor requests (for example, medical, home life), the time period, the setting, and physical appearances. Like any hobby, the more deeply you delve into the subject, the more you will enjoy it. You are welcome to do presentations or engage in any activity that would have been done during the period of the War Between the States. These activities include but are not limited to:

Parlor games Children's games Sewing Knitting First-person scenarios Toy demonstrations Laundry demonstrations Spying Medical impressions/period medicines Dancing Box-lunch socials Tatting Quilting Herbal demonstrations Cooking demonstrations Fashion shows Rug hooking Letter writing

The general rule in doing an activity is simple: if you've researched it and would like to give it a try, go for it!

We hope that you'll join us and that you'll have fun! If you are interested in particpating in this interesting and enjoyable hobby, we invite you to attend a business meeting and/or visit us at a scheduled event and talk with our members. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our civilian coordinators: