Mission Posted October 1, 2009 Share Posted October 1, 2009 This is why I think it would be great to visit as a spectator. You'd get to see it as it seems, not as it goes on behind the scenes. Once you're inside the re-enactor world, I've found that you have to constantly be on guard against the types I mentioned. But this usually only happens once the tourists have gone home. Personally, as anyone who has seen me do my presentation will vouch, I prefer the explanation style over the living history style. Folks have been trying to get me do a mock operation for years and I am still not comfortable with it. I know deep in my heart that any attempts I would make to be accurate in portrayal would be wrong in many ways, so I prefer not to do it. This probably stems in part from the belief I mentioned that I can't see how we can get it more 50% right. However, I really admire those who do it and would gladly visit as a spectator to admire their art. Mycroft: "My brother has the brain of a scientist or a philosopher, yet he elects to be a detective. What might we deduce about his heart?" John: "I don't know." Mycroft: "Neither do I. But initially he wanted to be a pirate." Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Hawkyns Posted October 1, 2009 Share Posted October 1, 2009 Folks have been trying to get me do a mock operation for years and I am still not comfortable with it. I know deep in my heart that any attempts I would make to be accurate in portrayal would be wrong in many ways, so I prefer not to do it. Back a bunch of years ago, we did an ECW battle at Marrietta Mansion in MD. My lads (Blackwell's Regiment) decided to make things a bit more realistic and have some fun with the crowd at the same time. Our regimental surgeon set up just inside the barriers with some of his instruments. As the battle progressed, one of the lads took a hit. As he went down, he burst a blood pack under his doublet. A couple of the others hauled him over to the surgeon, where they held him down. The surgeon dug in the bloody shirt and doublet with forceps and pulled out a musket ball. Under the blood pack was a piece of soaking wet sole leather. Surgeon pulls out the bullet, clang! into the tin basin, pulls out the cautery from the charcoal burner and presses it onto the wet leather. Lots of steam, smell of burning flesh, and Wylie is writhing and screaming like a madman. Lots of white faces among the crowd, 2 or 3 running away, and they got a lot better idea of the reality of the battlefield. Hawkyns Cannon add dignity to what otherwise would be merely an ugly brawl I do what I do for my own reasons. I do not require anyone to follow me. I do not require society's approval for my actions or beliefs. if I am to be judged, let me be judged in the pure light of history, not the harsh glare of modern trends. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Cuisto Mako Posted October 1, 2009 Author Share Posted October 1, 2009 Personally, as anyone who has seen me do my presentation will vouch, I prefer the explanation style over the living history style. Folks have been trying to get me do a mock operation for years and I am still not comfortable with it. I know deep in my heart that any attempts I would make to be accurate in portrayal would be wrong in many ways, so I prefer not to do it. This probably stems in part from the belief I mentioned that I can't see how we can get it more 50% right. However, I really admire those who do it and would gladly visit as a spectator to admire their art. That's why I don't do the barber-surgeon thing anymore. It is a fun display to present to the public, but in a private setting it is kind of boring...nobody wants to let me try the clyster... And fake medical operation do look...fake. Plus it can be a tricky subject. I remember an old women asking me questions and taking note about what I would prescribe for this and that. I think she was taking this very seriously. Please mam don't stop taking your regular pills. It is amasing how easilly people will give credits to quack. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Capt. Sterling Posted October 1, 2009 Share Posted October 1, 2009 Honestly I'm comparing any event where reenactors are included, either big or small, festival or reenactment. Sometimes size doesn't matter...and sometime quality doesn't matter... and the folks putting on the event have the right to chose what they want. It really comes down to what the event is wanting to produce and I again I will pick MTA, as they pick and chose who they want to invite/include according to their desires/standards...would they change their standards if they get a smaller turn out... I have no idea... I was speaking hypothetically... and whether or not they can chose from numerous time periods they still set standards/limits...it is Military through the Ages... so you mostly won't see huge groups of reenactors that do strictly civilian crews at the event...that is their choice...do they limit the size of the event because they do not include groups that strictly do civilians, of course... but again that is their choice....do they stop folks from walking around in improper kit during that event that are not actually participating? Not that I have seen... again that is their choice... Now in my opinion, any crew that is not willing to play with newbies, is only limiting themselves, we do everything we can to include newbies when we go out to play, except piss off our hosts...again we are there as guests... In the past when we ran events, we always set standards, and did everything we could to include the newbies, finding them parts to play, helping them with equipment, and making sure they understood what was expected of them in the future...when the event organizers as well as the crews attending,are willing to listen and be inclusive, you would be surprised how quickly many newbies are willing to learn and put the time and energy into growing their portrayal...I have even seen Reel pirates improve their kit, not in accuracy, but in what they are trying to portray as far as the myth aspect goes... so again, event organizers can do as they please with their events, we can try and speak to them about possibly changing things, but it still comes down to their decision. Any wise leader should be listening to the opinions/advice of others especially those with experience, before making any decisions themselves... but then in return it is only decent of the rest of us to respect their decisions... "I being shot through the left cheek, the bullet striking away great part of my upper jaw, and several teeth which dropt down the deck where I fell... I was forced to write what I would say to prevent the loss of blood, and because of the pain I suffered by speaking."~ Woodes Rogers Crewe of the Archangel http://jcsterlingcptarchang.wix.com/creweofthearchangel# http://creweofthearchangel.wordpress.com/ Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
hurricane Posted October 1, 2009 Share Posted October 1, 2009 (edited) This is one of those places, Mission. Went last year as a civilian and thoroughly enjoyed the experience, though I wished I had had the guts to enter the live fire event. http://www.floridafrontiersmen.org/Alafia.html It's all done on private property there were literally hundreds of encampments, from teepees and trappers to pirates and settlers. Amazing. The kids of the families even go to school there in period. They live there for roughly 10 days but only allow the public in on one weekend. It's a great place to learn, get ideas and experience a wide range of re-enactment periods and styles. It's on my never miss calendar since I went last year. Perhaps someday I will have the guts to go period there. And yes, they even endure the cold of January in Florida. -- Hurricane Edited October 1, 2009 by hurricane -- Hurricane ______________________________________________________________________ http://piratesofthecoast.com/images/pyracy-logo1.jpg Captain of The Pyrates of the Coast Author of "Memoirs of a Buccaneer: 30 Year Before the Mast" (Published in Fall 2011) Scurrilous Rogue Stirrer of Pots Fomenter of Mutiny Bon Vivant & Roustabout Part-time Carnival Barker Certified Ex-Wife Collector Experienced Drinking Companion "I was screwed. I readied my confession and the sobbing pleas not to tell my wife. But as I turned, no one was in the bed. The room was empty. The naked girl was gone, like magic." "Memoirs of a Buccaneer: 30 Years Before the Mast" - Amazon.com Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Capt. Sterling Posted October 1, 2009 Share Posted October 1, 2009 [quote name='Mission' date='01 October 2009 - 01:26 PM' ti Personally, I wouldn't even want to go to an elite event as a re-enactor. While such a thing would be dazzling to behold as a spectator, it would also probably be replete with overly-talky know-it-alls and stuffy self-rightous prigs and intentionally demeaning jerks. A little of that goes a long way. Honestly Mission, you would be surprised when you attend something like an 'elite' event... for instance the private ball at the Governor's Palace in Williamsburg... not open to the public only the reenactors themselves... it was so amazing, like going back in time, especially in such a wonderful location... that I think most of the reenactors were in awe and not pissing and moaning as some do.... the atmosphere was so electric that folks just fell into character in order not to disturb that atmosphere... see something I have learned is that with most successful businesses/schools/groups, etc... when you raise the bar/standards there are many folks that will aim to achieve those standards... does everyone? no, and honestly that isn't a problem... they still "compete" as it were and still remain often successful themselves... of course some go belly up and close down... often times only the folks not willing to put in the time and effort are the ones complaining about the standards...the ones that are truly interested in learning will make a way to make it work...The nasty know it alls(who never do know it all), for some reason seem to act like they can only survive by putting others down all the time... honestly I find more satisfaction in helping someone and watching them grow and succeed...guess it comes with being a parent.... "I being shot through the left cheek, the bullet striking away great part of my upper jaw, and several teeth which dropt down the deck where I fell... I was forced to write what I would say to prevent the loss of blood, and because of the pain I suffered by speaking."~ Woodes Rogers Crewe of the Archangel http://jcsterlingcptarchang.wix.com/creweofthearchangel# http://creweofthearchangel.wordpress.com/ Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Ransom Posted October 1, 2009 Share Posted October 1, 2009 It's a bit different on the west coast because we don't have any historical period events. There was very little reason for pyracy on our coast during the time period, because there was nothing to pyrate. The region was unsettled, other than by Native Americans, and strategically useless for raids in the Caribbean. Our living history events are geared more toward pioneer days, the old west, and early mountain men/trappers, because that's our history. Those events can get extremely accurate in all aspects. The Spanish may have explored the coastal areas, but they didn't make permanent settlements until much later. I don't know of any pyracy living history events on our coast. If there are, then someone can correct me. So the whole question of how accurate we get is kinda moot. Some do — Like the Kern Co. folks — some go halfway — Like Tales of the Seven Seas — and other don't even come close. I don't think there is any event organizer here who would lay down strict laws governing garb and encampments. That being said, I think it's great that there are venues in other areas of the country where strict accuracy is requested. Maybe, eventually, us West Coasters will have something similar, where those who seek strict authenticity can play with like-minded souls. And I do think most event organizers and reenactors are welcoming to newbies. They are the life blood of the community, so should be encouraged, not slammed for off-period garb. It happens, but I don't think it's the norm. I would also encourage anyone who hears a newbie being snarked at, to step in with a diversion. And I must say, I am liking this discussion because it has remained just that...a discussion. You are all to be admired for keeping things calm and rational...well, as rational as reenactors can get. Huzzah to that. ...schooners, islands, and maroons and buccaneers and buried gold... You can do everything right, strictly according to procedure, on the ocean, and it'll still kill you. But if you're a good navigator, a least you'll know where you were when you died.......From The Ship Killer by Justin Scott. "Well, that's just maddeningly unhelpful."....Captain Jack Sparrow Found in the Ruins — Unique Jewelry Found in the Ruins — Personal Blog Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Capt. Sterling Posted October 1, 2009 Share Posted October 1, 2009 Actually all we are doing is just voicing opinions... which everyone is entitled to do so... after all, in the end, opinions are truly just how we feel about something... and everyone's is different... so in the end, none of us are completely wrong and none of us are completely correct... "I being shot through the left cheek, the bullet striking away great part of my upper jaw, and several teeth which dropt down the deck where I fell... I was forced to write what I would say to prevent the loss of blood, and because of the pain I suffered by speaking."~ Woodes Rogers Crewe of the Archangel http://jcsterlingcptarchang.wix.com/creweofthearchangel# http://creweofthearchangel.wordpress.com/ Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Cuisto Mako Posted October 1, 2009 Author Share Posted October 1, 2009 It's a bit different on the west coast because we don't have any historical period events. There was very little reason for pyracy on our coast during the time period, because there was nothing to pyrate. The region was unsettled, other than by Native Americans, and strategically useless for raids in the Caribbean. Our living history events are geared more toward pioneer days, the old west, and early mountain men/trappers, because that's our history. Those events can get extremely accurate in all aspects. The Spanish may have explored the coastal areas, but they didn't make permanent settlements until much later. I don't know of any pyracy living history events on our coast. If there are, then someone can correct me. So the whole question of how accurate we get is kinda moot. Some do — Like the Kern Co. folks — some go halfway — Like Tales of the Seven Seas — and other don't even come close. I don't think there is any event organizer here who would lay down strict laws governing garb and encampments. That being said, I think it's great that there are venues in other areas of the country where strict accuracy is requested. Maybe, eventually, us West Coasters will have something similar, where those who seek strict authenticity can play with like-minded souls. And I do think most event organizers and reenactors are welcoming to newbies. They are the life blood of the community, so should be encouraged, not slammed for off-period garb. It happens, but I don't think it's the norm. I would also encourage anyone who hears a newbie being snarked at, to step in with a diversion. And I must say, I am liking this discussion because it has remained just that...a discussion. You are all to be admired for keeping things calm and rational...well, as rational as reenactors can get. Huzzah to that. Even if it is not part of your direct history, it is still possible to do some serious reenactment of any given period. Some friend of mine are doing heavy 15 th century living history even though we are in Quebec which is very far from medieval Europe. Of course we don't have the support of a museum or a national institution since it is not part of our history. Same with group in America that reenact Roman time or Napoleonic era, but they still do it. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
casketchris Posted October 1, 2009 Share Posted October 1, 2009 i just want to think ransom for putting our name out there(kern county pirates) like i said we are not close to being spot on but we try i mean come on this year at ojai we had my 3.5 month old daught in a fairy hat... and other than her and her drool rag we tried our best did we fit in no di we gets some rude comments yes did we have some people ask why we were dressed the way we were yes, and we see that one person asking why as a possible future "historical pyrate" and if not atleast they took the time to learn more about what we are doing... like ransom said not much in california other that old west trapper stuff . . . although we do have a roman group from nor cal... it would be nice to get a historical event for the golden age in ca but due to "lack of history" for the time we all must live in harmony at a ren fair or pirate fair... and that has worked so far, other than mr you need more black, bucket boots and skull and cross bones that kenny ran into Nautical acquisition and redistribution specialist Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
michaelsbagley Posted October 1, 2009 Share Posted October 1, 2009 CasketChris, I've seen a fair number of pictures of you guys (you and Kenneth are the main two I have noticed), and you are far too modest! You guys are a lot further along on the curve than you give yourselves credit for! From the few photos I have seen of you guys, you are on par with most of the better crews I see out in the East. Modern items infringing into re-enactment is something people talk about a fair bit... But most people know they are a necessary thing... specially when it comes to infants, or medications, or other modern health or safety issues. To further Cuisto's point... I live in the mid-west.... There were never GAoP here (river pirates were a later thing)... And while it is small, we have been working to some more living history events out this way, and getting some pretty good turnouts. Anyone can re-enact anything (within reason) anywhere they want. It only takes a few guys to put together and event, the more the better, but a handful or two people and a place to play. Pirate festivals are a great place to start, but there are a lot of avenues you can check out. The biggest challenge you guys will likely have is the patience to make it grow... Sometimes if you are lucky, it can grow fast... But more often than not, it takes lots of time. And there will be a bit of a pulse to it. Expect it to grow some, shrink a bit, and grow some more, then shrink back a bit. As long as you are enjoying it, try and roll with the ebbs and flows... For my part, I will continue to look for pictures of you guys as I enjoy seeing them! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Capt. Sterling Posted October 1, 2009 Share Posted October 1, 2009 (edited) i just want to think ransom for putting our name out there(kern county pirates) like i said we are not close to being spot on but we try i mean come on this year at ojai we had my 3.5 month old daught in a fairy hat... Chris when it comes to kids they are a whole other issue... some jump right in (when they are old enough)and pretending just comes naturally to them...others well if we don't take reality into the equation, we are just forcing them to do something and in the long run they may just end up hating the hobby. Your daughter is just too bloody adorable, especially in her hat, to make her uncomfortable and possibly grow up saying "not another event I hate those" Make it as "realistic" for her as you can, but and I agree with Mickey here, her comfort, health and safety comes first...just ignore the rude remarks...they aren't constructive in any way, shape or form. Edited October 1, 2009 by Capt. Sterling "I being shot through the left cheek, the bullet striking away great part of my upper jaw, and several teeth which dropt down the deck where I fell... I was forced to write what I would say to prevent the loss of blood, and because of the pain I suffered by speaking."~ Woodes Rogers Crewe of the Archangel http://jcsterlingcptarchang.wix.com/creweofthearchangel# http://creweofthearchangel.wordpress.com/ Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
casketchris Posted October 1, 2009 Share Posted October 1, 2009 thank you guys for the kind words Nautical acquisition and redistribution specialist Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Capt. Sterling Posted October 1, 2009 Share Posted October 1, 2009 Beside... when they get older and do enjoy the hobby and they are misbehaving...the leverage you get with..."knock it off or you aren't going this weekend" is mighty powerful... "I being shot through the left cheek, the bullet striking away great part of my upper jaw, and several teeth which dropt down the deck where I fell... I was forced to write what I would say to prevent the loss of blood, and because of the pain I suffered by speaking."~ Woodes Rogers Crewe of the Archangel http://jcsterlingcptarchang.wix.com/creweofthearchangel# http://creweofthearchangel.wordpress.com/ Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
casketchris Posted October 1, 2009 Share Posted October 1, 2009 Beside... when they get older and do enjoy the hobby and they are misbehaving...the leverage you get with..."knock it off or you aren't going this weekend" is mighty powerful... very true or if they hate it "knock it off or you are going this weekend" sorry i did not mean to move this topic to far in another direction i just thought that bringing up the things that might be in a way out of our hands when it came to reenacting was something that i thought might fit into this topic. Nautical acquisition and redistribution specialist Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
hurricane Posted October 1, 2009 Share Posted October 1, 2009 [quote name='Mission' date='01 October 2009 - 01:26 PM' ti ...see something I have learned is that with most successful businesses/schools/groups, etc... when you raise the bar/standards there are many folks that will aim to achieve those standards... does everyone? no, and honestly that isn't a problem... they still "compete" as it were and still remain often successful themselves... of course some go belly up and close down... often times only the folks not willing to put in the time and effort are the ones complaining about the standards...the ones that are truly interested in learning will make a way to make it work...The nasty know it alls(who never do know it all), for some reason seem to act like they can only survive by putting others down all the time... honestly I find more satisfaction in helping someone and watching them grow and succeed...guess it comes with being a parent.... I would have to agree with that. As a mediocre musician (but a great entertainer) I attended my first ever jam session with some truly great musicians this last weekend. The unspoken competitive spirit caused each one of us to up our respective games - we all tried harder than we do when we're all alone... and yes, there were still some who were in the slow lane, but even their game stepped up proportionally. It's quite interesting to watch the dynamics of a group even where everyone is at a different level but learning from some real experts. -- Hurricane -- Hurricane ______________________________________________________________________ http://piratesofthecoast.com/images/pyracy-logo1.jpg Captain of The Pyrates of the Coast Author of "Memoirs of a Buccaneer: 30 Year Before the Mast" (Published in Fall 2011) Scurrilous Rogue Stirrer of Pots Fomenter of Mutiny Bon Vivant & Roustabout Part-time Carnival Barker Certified Ex-Wife Collector Experienced Drinking Companion "I was screwed. I readied my confession and the sobbing pleas not to tell my wife. But as I turned, no one was in the bed. The room was empty. The naked girl was gone, like magic." "Memoirs of a Buccaneer: 30 Years Before the Mast" - Amazon.com Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Hawkyns Posted October 1, 2009 Share Posted October 1, 2009 It's not really another direction. These are things that affect our interpretation and authenticity. Children are always an issue. I've seen the gamut, from 3 week olds who are in period kit, and who never have anything but wooden, period toys as they grow up, to the kids whose parents won't separate them from their modern toys and electronics. My experience (and we have had several kids in the regiment) is that the ones who are as immersed as the parents adapt better and generally make better kids, especially if it is started early. They are more likley the ones who are considered to be part of the regiment, considered and treated more like short adults than kids. The ones who are given options to bring modern stuff are the ones who have the most trouble being parted from it when it does become neccesary. They are also the ones not likely to stay around when they become teens. Treat them as a functional part of the unit from the word go, expect the same standards of them, and don't treat them like kids. It worked well for us. Medical issues are another point to consider. One of our camp followers had severe carpal tunnel syndrom and had to wear a brace, 24/7. I worked with her and made a brace out of leather and brass that buckled on and gave her the same support as her plastic one that she wore through the week. Eyeglasses can be replaced by contacts or by early style eyeglasses that are available. Meds are easy to conceal in a period tin in a haversack or ditty bag. Even crutches can be made to a period pattern, as one of our lads did when he lost his foot in a motorcycle accident. (no, he did not stop turning out). the one thing I have not yet figured out how to deal with is the C-pap. the noise through the night can be very disconcerting for the tents around. Fortunately, it's only an issue for us, not for the public. You can work around anything. Many of the problems were the same for period folks, so it's easy to use the same remedies they did. For the more modern stuff, it takes a bit of research and some roundabout thinking to come up with something that's not out of place. Hawkyns Cannon add dignity to what otherwise would be merely an ugly brawl I do what I do for my own reasons. I do not require anyone to follow me. I do not require society's approval for my actions or beliefs. if I am to be judged, let me be judged in the pure light of history, not the harsh glare of modern trends. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
casketchris Posted October 1, 2009 Share Posted October 1, 2009 It's not really another direction. These are things that affect our interpretation and authenticity. Children are always an issue. I've seen the gamut, from 3 week olds who are in period kit, and who never have anything but wooden, period toys as they grow up, to the kids whose parents won't separate them from their modern toys and electronics. My experience (and we have had several kids in the regiment) is that the ones who are as immersed as the parents adapt better and generally make better kids, especially if it is started early. They are more likley the ones who are considered to be part of the regiment, considered and treated more like short adults than kids. The ones who are given options to bring modern stuff are the ones who have the most trouble being parted from it when it does become neccesary. They are also the ones not likely to stay around when they become teens. Treat them as a functional part of the unit from the word go, expect the same standards of them, and don't treat them like kids. It worked well for us. although i might not agree with everything you say i do feel this is "path" me and my wife will take, as long as she (my daughter) is having a good time if or when it comes to the point of it no longer being fun then we will have to make some other plans for her. the good thing is all the people in our group are people that she is going to grow up around all being "aunts and uncles" so i hope this will help with her enjoyment in our reenacting and her future in it. Nautical acquisition and redistribution specialist Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Dorian Lasseter Posted October 1, 2009 Share Posted October 1, 2009 Folks have been trying to get me do a mock operation for years and I am still not comfortable with it. I know deep in my heart that any attempts I would make to be accurate in portrayal would be wrong in many ways, so I prefer not to do it. Back a bunch of years ago, we did an ECW battle at Marrietta Mansion in MD. My lads (Blackwell's Regiment) decided to make things a bit more realistic and have some fun with the crowd at the same time. Our regimental surgeon set up just inside the barriers with some of his instruments. As the battle progressed, one of the lads took a hit. As he went down, he burst a blood pack under his doublet. A couple of the others hauled him over to the surgeon, where they held him down. The surgeon dug in the bloody shirt and doublet with forceps and pulled out a musket ball. Under the blood pack was a piece of soaking wet sole leather. Surgeon pulls out the bullet, clang! into the tin basin, pulls out the cautery from the charcoal burner and presses it onto the wet leather. Lots of steam, smell of burning flesh, and Wylie is writhing and screaming like a madman. Lots of white faces among the crowd, 2 or 3 running away, and they got a lot better idea of the reality of the battlefield. Hawkyns Just had to put in a personal note here... excellent thread/topic! Hawkyns, I was there in the ranks at that event in Levin's (sp) reg. of foot under Justinian Sykes... When Wylie got hit and all that happened... That made the event. See, That's where I started in reenactment/living history, doing ECW. F&I came along as there wee more events to go to. Al of which have pretty high standards, BUT, I've been lucky enough to get into the groups who do it right in my opinion. Help the new person, lend some kit out til they can get their own up to standards and everyone enjoys it, learns from it. As much as many have said the purists are uptight and snotty... I've only run into one person in all my years that was like that. Everyone else I've talked to have been laid back, unless you get on a topic that gets up the blood. I don't mean they would get snotty or nasty, just very enthusiastic, heh, almost fanatical... Truly, D. Lasseter Captain, The Lucy Propria Virtute Audax --- In Hoc Signo Vinces Ni Feidir An Dubh A Chur Ina Bhan Air "If I whet my glittering sword, and mine hand take hold on judgment; I will render vengeance to mine enemies, and will reward them that hate me." Deuteronomy 32:41 Envy and its evil twin - It crept in bed with slander - Idiots they gave advice - But Sloth it gave no answer - Anger kills the human soul - With butter tales of Lust - While Pavlov's Dogs keep chewin' - On the legs they never trust... The Seven Deadly Sins http://www.colonialnavy.org Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Capt. Sterling Posted October 1, 2009 Share Posted October 1, 2009 (edited) It's not really another direction. These are things that affect our interpretation and authenticity. Children are always an issue. I've seen the gamut, from 3 week olds who are in period kit, and who never have anything but wooden, period toys as they grow up, to the kids whose parents won't separate them from their modern toys and electronics. My experience (and we have had several kids in the regiment) is that the ones who are as immersed as the parents adapt better and generally make better kids, especially if it is started early. They are more likley the ones who are considered to be part of the regiment, considered and treated more like short adults than kids. The ones who are given options to bring modern stuff are the ones who have the most trouble being parted from it when it does become neccesary. They are also the ones not likely to stay around when they become teens. Treat them as a functional part of the unit from the word go, expect the same standards of them, and don't treat them like kids. It worked well for us. Hawkyns Oh I can certainly agree with this...its what we did with ours...and they have adapted very well to it...one of mine being worried about contacts, prefers to not see things in the distance as well rather than wear her eyeglasses...and after seeing her period correct choices, again, she would rather see something way off as blurry... although ...ahem... the cuddly toy still comes to every event, he just stays hidden at all times... sigh... as to doing reenacting, I can't say enough about how great it is for kids... the grades sky rocketed practically over night in ALL areas not just history... and they aren't germ freaks (for lack of a better term), and when the modern conveniences go bust, they know exactly what to do to survive. Our first winter down in the country in VA, was a nightmare as far as the better half was concerned as the power not only went out a lot, it went out for days... first time the kids grabbed all the lanterns and ran out to collect fire wood... the spouse was truly amazed... and when starting to complain about the electrical bill the other night, the kids immediately perked up and said..."Cool we have candles"... boy did I get the look... Edited October 1, 2009 by Capt. Sterling "I being shot through the left cheek, the bullet striking away great part of my upper jaw, and several teeth which dropt down the deck where I fell... I was forced to write what I would say to prevent the loss of blood, and because of the pain I suffered by speaking."~ Woodes Rogers Crewe of the Archangel http://jcsterlingcptarchang.wix.com/creweofthearchangel# http://creweofthearchangel.wordpress.com/ Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
theM.A.dDogge Posted October 1, 2009 Share Posted October 1, 2009 .....And yes, they even endure the cold of January in Florida....... -- Hurricane ...... ..... ....... HAhahahahahahaha....hehehehehehe.hohohohohohhohohohoho...... Cold....(sputter).......January......(snort)........FLORIDA.....(spittle) oh my god....i just spit milk thru my nose...... oh.....you were serious.....ahhhh...eh hem.....(cough)....'scuse me.... those events (the all inclusives)...can be a blast...(seriously Hurricane...you should attend one as a participant)...as well as a real burden....used to do a private one...frechmans frolic....no public....no modern...period....live shoots...real game(food)....real cold... late november early dec(Wisconsin)....just remeber running round in a kilt...following each others barefoot prints in the frost....then the year it snowed 3 feet durring the event....great times...and the learning experience was invaluable. as far as Kids....i have always been involved with "family freindly" groups...wouldnt have it any other way....its like having 20 or so Aunts and Uncles help Watching if not raising the kids...caint wait till "Mamma" will let me start bringin mine.... ...dont ask...long story Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Capt. Sterling Posted October 1, 2009 Share Posted October 1, 2009 (edited) .i have always been involved with "family freindly" groups...wouldnt have it any other way....its like having 20 or so Aunts and Uncles help Watching if not raising the kids...caint wait till "Mamma" will let me start bringin mine Yeah neither can we... yeah...don't listen to yer father...come here and listen to Uncle John... Edited October 1, 2009 by Capt. Sterling "I being shot through the left cheek, the bullet striking away great part of my upper jaw, and several teeth which dropt down the deck where I fell... I was forced to write what I would say to prevent the loss of blood, and because of the pain I suffered by speaking."~ Woodes Rogers Crewe of the Archangel http://jcsterlingcptarchang.wix.com/creweofthearchangel# http://creweofthearchangel.wordpress.com/ Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
hurricane Posted October 2, 2009 Share Posted October 2, 2009 .....And yes, they even endure the cold of January in Florida....... -- Hurricane ...... ..... ....... HAhahahahahahaha....hehehehehehe.hohohohohohhohohohoho...... Cold....(sputter).......January......(snort)........FLORIDA.....(spittle) Actually, it was in the 30s that weekend there in the morning. I couldn't believe it was that cold here. Felt like I was back in Seattle again. I think I saw... now what is it called... oh, ICE there. -- Hurricane -- Hurricane ______________________________________________________________________ http://piratesofthecoast.com/images/pyracy-logo1.jpg Captain of The Pyrates of the Coast Author of "Memoirs of a Buccaneer: 30 Year Before the Mast" (Published in Fall 2011) Scurrilous Rogue Stirrer of Pots Fomenter of Mutiny Bon Vivant & Roustabout Part-time Carnival Barker Certified Ex-Wife Collector Experienced Drinking Companion "I was screwed. I readied my confession and the sobbing pleas not to tell my wife. But as I turned, no one was in the bed. The room was empty. The naked girl was gone, like magic." "Memoirs of a Buccaneer: 30 Years Before the Mast" - Amazon.com Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Animal Posted October 2, 2009 Share Posted October 2, 2009 (edited) I really like all the views being banted around by those who have my deepest respect for their knowledge and expertise as well as those who are relatively knew to the historical interpretation arena as I consider my self to be. I have decided to redo my kit as I wasn't happy with the way it came together. Back to the drawing board, but the conversation here has reminded me what I got into this for, doing it right, doing it correct and learning and teaching others from my experience. My humble thank you to you all. Animal Edited October 3, 2009 by Animal Buccaneer - Services to the highest bidder!!! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
lady constance Posted October 2, 2009 Share Posted October 2, 2009 i love reading and learning all of the """unsaid"""" { yet definitely felt by many} things that happens at events--- i have told/asked my husband a million times --- " WHY WHY WHY dont these period re-enactors just agree to take over some campground and set up a camp that educates AND provides an atmosphere of play { AKA partying and drinking for those who do imbibe}- absolutely no pressure to perform for any audience and JUST PLAY AND LEARN???? he has no answer..... it is almost as if people feel GUILTY for playing and learning and hanging out with out a " justfiable reason" to their spouses,families, lives, jobs, employers.......... why are there no thoughts of " if i am going to take a vacation, why not do it with pirates/ civil war/ renaissance/ ____________ group?" sooooooooooo........ anyone want to take this on? would love thoughts of all....... Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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