Soldiers
The unit has a few impressions available, but as with most things, cost is an important factor. Ranging in cost, we have Light Infantry, Battalion, and finally, Grenadier.
The uniform of the Lights is a shorter coat, has no regimental lace, and uses a pared down amount of accoutrements. Making it the most affordable way to get active in our unit.
The Battalion, or Hat-men, of the Regiment use the fully laced and lined regimental coat, as well as the full set of leather equipment. To ensure authenticity, our Regimental Lace and Bay wool lining is custom made for us in the UK. Unfortunately, current costs, and minimum orders, make it nearly impossible to do on a soldier by soldier basis.
The Grenadiers, have a slightly more involved regimental coat, and additional equipment, but the largest expense comes in the procurement of a correctly executed Grenadier’s Cap. While constructed from the same materials as the regimental coat, the extensive embroidery is what makes these caps difficult to fund.
Once the base items have been purchased, or constructed, members can focus on other items if they wish. These could include personal items to stuff into your haversack, a cowhide snapsack, or even a hand-sewn linen tent!
Noncombatants
Members of the 35th Regiment of Foot are not limited to the soldiers and officers of the battlefield unit. The “ladies” of the 35th, as well as those who serve as non-combatants in the role of Regimental Surgeon, Surgeon’s Mates, Sutler, Seamstress, and Laundress, etc., all serve very vital and important roles in providing a well-rounded interpretation of life during the French & Indian War. Not to mention, generally being clothed in linen, a much cooler set of clothing to be wearing than layers of wool in Summer!
In camp, our unit serves as a historical, educational tool for visitors. It is imperative that we portray our time period and unit effectively, and authentically. To this end, adherence to authenticity and period appearances should be upheld to every extent possible.
Our living history unit thrives on the diversity of its membership as well as the camaraderie that comes from everyone sharing in camp duties and responsibilities. It also provides excellent ideas for interpretation of skills, activities and camp chores that would have been done. To help with this, our more seasoned members serve as mentors and work with new members to teach them period skills, sewing techniques, crafts, and trades. Contact us for more information about noncombatant impressions.