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Roles

Choosing a role.

First talk to those members you meet. They will give you a ‘feel’ for most of the roles. Many require a lot of stamina; for most there is a lot of standing around as well as periods of intense activity. The roles of pikeman and musketeer are the most physically demanding. Musketeers will eventually have to buy their own musket and must acquire the appropriate licences from their local police.

To be a drummer you do not need any musical ability, but you will probably be expected to buy your own drum eventually. Artillery crews usually operate on the periphery of the battle action; this role may not suit you if you prefer to be part of ‘the big scene’. To be a water carrier or a member of the baggage train might suit those who are less able or willing to take part in the more ‘physical’ side of battling, but still wish to be on the battlefield.

Children even as young as three can take part in pre-battle displays, and these are opportunities for the parents of younger children to play a brief part. New members not wishing to take part in battles may join the Living History Group as merchants, tradesmen or in another appropriate role.

Musketeer

Basic foote soldiers, fight with five foot long Matchlock Muskets which are firing replica’s of the actual weapons used in the 1600s. They form “blocks”, attack at about 25 metres firing volleys, then using the butt of their musket as a club, and finally their swords to engage the enemy in hand to hand combat. [...]

Pike

Basic foote soldier fighting with a 16′ Pike, formed “block’s” and then attacked the enemy pike blocks, either at charge for point to point fighting, or in a pike push, (which is similar to a large rugby scrum with 25-30 men on each side), the idea being to gain gound. Pikemen are also used to [...]

Drummer

Drumming is a very honourable and rewarding role; you are the focal point of the regiment when marching, keeping up the morale on marches and ensuring that manoeuvres are done to exact timing. You do not necessarily need to be musical – the beats are easy to learn, and full training will be given. Although [...]

Artillerie

Please note the spelling of Artillerie as opposed to Artillery, was the elite of the army. By necessity he was a cut above the average, probably educated, intelligent and deliberate by nature. Not for him the mad press of unwashed bodies, the frenzy of clubbed muskets; our gunner took effect from a distance, by virtue [...]

Living History

If you fancy a less fraught pace to your hobby away from the pressures of modern day life, Living History may be for you.

In living history we portray military and civilian encampments throughout the English Civil Wars. Whether you have a specific role in mind or just relaxing and socialising with the young families [...]

Children

Last year we, of Earl Rivers’ regiment, celebrated our 40th anniversary. Like an established family we partied, settling down to chat about memories and fondly pass around old photos. As those photo’s passed around smiling faces caught in the light that glowed from our dying BBQ depicted grown up images of the children that had [...]