2nd US Cavalry Co. A / 9th Virginia Cavalry Co. D

Getting Started

A web page of the 2nd US Cavalry, Co. A/9th VA Cavalry Co. D Reenactors.

(Last update 3/23/07)

Getting Started (it helps to be nuts)

Consider first the costs listed above.  Keep in mind too that you'll spend gas, food, and powder money as well.  Then there's that long list of extra stuff that you've just "gotta" have.

Even more important than choosing blue or gray, is the choice of WHO you want to do this with.  The right group of people can make this hobby a real joy.  The wrong ones can send you screaming for the nearest exit.

Look carefully at a unit's personality before making any commitment.  Look at how they relate to each other, make decisions, support members (especially new ones), and resolve conflict.  Here's some other key items:

• Safety concerns:  How does the group manage safety issues on the field, by word and deed?  What precautions are taken, and what priorities are set?
• Camaraderie: What is the group's personality, and how do they treat each other?  How do they treat and support newcomers?  Is there a reasonable sense of humor employed?  Do YOU fit in?
• Historical accuracy: What value, both spoken and acted, does the group place on maintaining an accurate portrayal of the 19th century American soldier?  How is this evident in drill, tactics, uniforms, weapons, camp activity and appearance?  What concessions to practicality and safety do they make?  Does the group really know it's unit history?  Does the group keep rank to a minimum?
• Logistics: Where are most of the events the group attends?  How does the group share work details?  How are meals planned and executed?  Do they have loaner gear for newcomers?  Do they teach, coach, and advise new members?

Of course you must consider what SIDE you want to be on.  Does the unit do both a Union and a Confederate impression?  How often do they do both?  Are you required to do both?  Think of the extra costs involved.  Think what you'll feel right doing.

Once you've decided what YOU want to do and what GROUP you want to join the rest is easy as long as you're ready to spend all that cash!  If you don't know where to look for a unit just ask us. We have contacts all over the country, in  Canada, and Europe!

Joining our unit, Comp'y A, Second United States Cavalry / Comp'y D, 9th Virginia Cavalry.

We're always open to newcomers interested in our hobby.  I believe we are a very approachable group.  Here's some of our defining qualities:

• We represent two of the most active regiments in the American Civil War Cavalry: Comp'y A, 2nd US and Comp'y D, 9th Virginia.  The 2nd US saw action in all major campaigns from First Manassas (Bull Run) through the Valley campaigning in 1864.  The 9th Virginia was active in every major campaign from 1862 through Appomattox.  Both units were a tribute to themselves and their countries.
• We are safe.  We pride ourselves at NOT acting like hot dogs.  We know our limitations and expect members to only join in activities where they feel secure.
• We are accomplished.  We have a long, successful record of National Park living histories, public reenactments, and lead the east coast in Federal Cavalry.
• We are an authentic group.  While not "Hardcore", we present a very good impression.  We learn and use the "whole drill".  We practice and use Poinsett's cavalry tactics (the standard at the time) for mounted, dismounted, and manual of arms drill.  We've even written an very understandable translation of the manual for 20th / 21st century minds to comprehend.  No modern intrusions are seen in our camp.  Our uniforms and equipment are right.
• We make one major concession: We allow women in the ranks.  We need good riders committed to our goals of honoring American cavalry soldiers and find that some women fit the bill.  We ask that they succeed at a reasonable and practical disguise of their gender.  Not all can do this.
• WE KICK BUTT!  We are successful in tactical enterprise because we adhere to the manual, take careful risks, get where we're going on time, meet our commander's expectations, and act professionally.  All others Beware!
• We maintain a light hearted, cooperative, supportive, and committed atmosphere.  We're happy to meet you and talk about what we do.  We expect all members to share in duties, learn the drill, pull their weight, get up for picket watch at Oh-Dark-Thirty and stay committed to a TEAM EFFORT.

If you think we're the group for you, and you have at least moderate level riding skills, please feel free to contact our Unit Officers, Charlie Doutt or Kevin Dalton  to ask for more information.  He'll help you get a feel for what you're in for, and ask you to come see us in the field so you can SEE who we are and what we do.  We look forward to your visit.