2nd Connecticut
Join the 2nd Connecticut  

Welcome to the 2nd Connecticut,

The 2nd Connecticut Militia Regiment welcomes interested recruits. Since we attempt to recreate soldiers of the 2nd Connecticut of Militia as accurately as possible we suggest to begin with either meeting or talking on the phone with one of the organization's officers. This is an opportunity for interested individuals and the unit to explain their expectations and answer any questions they may have. Applicant membership begins once an individual decides they would like to join the 2nd 2nd Connecticut and pays their dues. Applicant members are then assigned a sponsor from our membership to help arrange "loaner" equipment, assist you acquire your own, and provide general guidance.

Contact us at info@2ndcnmilitia.org

Applicant members move to full membership when they have:

•Obtained the minimum and most basic outfit and accouterments as outlined in the Membership Manual.

•Men-at-arms members must demonstrate safe handing of their firearm and proficiency in the manual of arms.

•Have fired their musket with the company at a reenactment or tactical

Full members have a voice in unit matters, can hold positions within the unit, etc.

Frequently Asked Membership Questions

What is the 2nd Connecticut all about?

The 2nd Connecticut is recreated by a group of dedicated historians with a love of history who which to represent the life and times of the common militiaman as accurately as possible. The 2nd Connecticut recreates the entire Revolutionary War scene for members of the public through encampments, battlefield reenactments. "self education", immersion, and preservation events.

Where are you located or headquartered? Do you have meetings?
The majority of the 2nd Connecticut Regiment's membership is spread all over Washington State, Oregon, and Colorado.

What type of activities do you participate in?

•Living Histories: Typically held at State Parks or other historic sites, these events are designed primarily to educate the public through first and third-person interpretation. Often, these include narrated demonstrations, static displays, and camp tours depicting the day-to-day life of the common soldier.

•Battle Re-enactments: Attended by large crowds of spectators, these events attempt to recreate the events of specific battle. In theory, the troops move to a choreographed script to depict historical events as accurately as the program and numbers of participants allow.

•Educational: "Professional development" for living history interpreters. These events are focused on educating us as interpreters, rather than the general public. They often take the form of workshops, "schools", firelock shoots, and authenticity contests.

•Immersion: These are non-public events held in areas that are as free of modern intrusion as possible and complete use of "first person" is expected. Picket posts, marches, encampments, and winter quarters are just a few examples of the types of scenarios these events encompass.

How do I get outfitted? How much does it cost?
Uniforms and equipment were made by hand in the 18th century and fitted by regimental tailors to be "tight without constraint". . For those with a some skill with a needle, or at least the willingness to try, patterns and material lists are also available to make your own clothing and equipment. A comprehensive membership manual is provided upon joining listing sources of suppliers for all the equipment we use. It is important to stress that no one is expected to get all their "kits" together overnight, in fact, recruits are encouraged to pace themselves and acquire their uniforms as time and resources provide. With the amount of "loaner" equipment available in the unit, there is no reason for recruits to feel rushed to get their kits together. A good kit takes a year or more to piece together, and it is something we all consistently tweak over the years. Costs vary, depending on how much you are able to do on your own and how much you pay someone else to do for you. All in all, recruits should expect to eventually spend about $1,500 within the first two years of joining getting everything they need. This is not inexpensive, but recognize that most of this cost is associated with the purchase of a $700 musket, and virtually all the expenses come only in the initial "start up".

Who can join? Are there any age requirements?
The 2nd Connecticut welcomes all recruits. To carry a musket a member must be 14 years of age, to be a musician one must be at least 12 years old. For reasons of safety, no one under 12 years of age is allowed on the field as a "combatant". Women and children often followed the armies for protection or out of entrepreneurial desires.

Are there minimum participation requirements?
Two members in good standing must recommend the new applicant. Probationary membership may then be granted to the applicant. Probationary period shall be at least 6  months, at which time the officers will evaluate the probationary member’s progress. The officers may grant full membership at that time, based on the person’s interest, attendance at events, and progress toward obtaining the required clothing and equipment. Each situation is different; therefore the Officers will evaluate each probationary member individually. The officers must approve the new applicant before mustering with the unit.
Membership is open to all regardless of gender, religion, or ethnic background. Minor children must have a responsible adult sponsor who is a member in good standing in the Regiment, and who will assume responsibility for that minor at events.

Members of the 2nd Connecticut Regiment of Militia will select a persona and acquire clothing and equipment from the apparel and equipment list as appropriate for the member’s chosen persona. All members are required to follow the established guidelines for equipment and clothing. The 2nd Connecticut Regiment of Militia was comprised of persons from the southeast region of Connecticut and clothing and equipment should reflect that which was the norm for that period and region. Members are strongly encouraged to complete a bibliography of his/her chosen persona with primary source documentation of each item included in his kit.

Contact us at info@2ndcnmilitia.org

     
 
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