Frequently
Asked Questions
What
is the First New Hampshire Regiment?
The First New
Hampshire Regiment is a New Hampshire chartered historical association, founded
in 1973, and is dedicated to recreating the life and times of the common soldier
of the American War for Independence, 1775-1783.
Who
are members of The First New Hampshire?
Men, women, and children
from all walks of life: History professors, museum curators, musicians, retired
military men, and firemen, craftsmen of all kinds, students, librarians, engineers,
photographers, authors and even a funeral director. The list is almost endless,
but all have one thing in common--a love for the study of the American
Revolution and for sharing the results of their learning with the people of
our area and making it concrete, meaningful, and interesting.
How
many members are there?
Almost 40 members
make up the Regiment, most serving in the Line Company.
Where are
members located?
From all over New Hampshire, Maine and Massachusetts.
What branches of service are represented?
Infantry, Artillery, Musicians, and Civilian.
What do the women
do?
They portray women
of the period, in all of the various roles that women held such as officers'
ladies, soldiers' wives, or camp followers. The ladies and wives also do many
of the crafts and daily chores that would have been done in camp. Without
the women, the 18th century armies would have had a more difficult time than
they did; women were an integral part of armies of the period. Women are also
allowed to field in the same positions as men but must appear in dress and
carriage as men (no makeup, jewelry, etc) and take men's names when
in ranks.
What about
children?
The First
New Hampshire is a family oriented organization and encourages young people
to be involved. Children learn and practice games and chores of the
18th century. As they get older, many children gain an interest in
other aspects such as learning the music of the period and move up to other
areas of responsibility as they mature.
Is
the First New Hampshire a hereditary organization?
No. There are no ascriptive requirements for membership, although many men
and women can trace their ancestry to those who supported both sides of
the conflict.
What does the First New Hampshire Do?
It recreates the entire
Revolutionary War scene for its members and the public through marches,
encampments and tactical battlefield demonstrations, as well as commemorative
observances. On occasion, we attend schools on various 18th century subjects.
What does a typical
First New Hampshire event consist of?
Most First New Hampshire
events involve a weekend at various locations in New England and along the
East Coast. During Friday night and early Saturday, the 18th century
camp is set up, complete with soldier's tents, officer's marquees, cooking
areas and craft displays. After officer's and non-commissioned officer's calls
(the entire day is run by original drum signals), the unit is assembled, inspected
and drilled in movements and firings. In the afternoon, a safe tactical demonstration
is staged with other American, and French troops facing the Crown Forces of
British, Tories and Germans. The day ends with a formal Retreat Ceremony with
honors to the flags, accompanied by the Field Music made up of the different
units assembled. Sunday can begin with Church services, conducted by a Chaplain
in proper vestments for the 18th century. The remainder of the day follows
somewhat similar to that of Saturday. Camp is struck late on Sunday.
How is the
First New Hampshire uniformed and equipped?
Each unit is as nearly
an exact recreation of the original First New Hampshire unit as present study
and research will permit. All cloth, leather, fastenings, etc., are authentic
copies. Patterns for uniforms are made from surviving examples in museums,
and from contemporary sources such as prints, paintings, and books. No modern,
man-made fabrics, plastic, or zippers are used. Weapons are exact reproductions
of British and French muskets, American long rifles, cannon and period edged
weapons of all types: bayonets, halberds, pikes, spontoons, swords and tomahawks.
Cartridge boxes, canteens, belts and buckles, and other accoutrements are
all copies of the originals. All members personally own their weapons and
equipment; either making it themselves, or purchasing it from craftsmen members.
We learn the most about the people by using the most accurate tools to try
to accomplish the same tasks.
Is membership
open to others?
Yes. We are
always looking for new people interested in the history of the period and
who have a desire to be involved. After a short trial period and a vote
of the membership, you are then eligible to take part, to learn and to enjoy.
To learn more please e-mail us, call or write to the Adjutant. We
will be happy to explain more and answer your questions.
In summary, the First
New Hampshire Regiment brings the history of the American War for Independence
to life for children and adults alike. It helps to create interest in the
Revolution by a variety of demonstrations. The visitor may look at, touch,
and talk to the soldiers and camp followers; thus bringing to life in three
dimensions and full color, the Revolutionary War scene. Visitors are almost
a part of this scene--not merely spectators. The American War for Independence
comes to life...authentic, truthful education for all ages...something to
be long remembered.
