Civil War reenactment group seeks new members

By Masha Yurkevich

Windham and Raymond residents interested in history, military drill or experiencing what life was like during the Civil War have an opportunity to get involved with Company A, 3rd Maine Regiment Volunteer Infantry, a reenactment group seeking new members from the area.

Members of Company A, 3rd Maine Regiment Volunteer
Infantry, participate in Civil war reenactments and living 
history demonstrations, bringing Maine Civil War history
to life while educating the public about the experiences
of soldiers and civilians. COURTESY PHOTO 

The organization portrays a Union Army company from the 3rd Maine Regiment, one of the regiments Maine sent to fight in the Civil War. A full regiment included about 1,000 soldiers, divided into 10 companies. Company A, which the group represents, would have included about 100 soldiers when it was first organized. As the war continued, illness, injuries and deaths reduced its ranks. By the middle of the war, the company had about 20 to 30 soldiers, a number similar to this group’s size when it portrays the unit at events.

“We are always looking for new people,” said Joe Donahue, president and member of Company A.

He said the group welcomes recruits from throughout Maine, including Windham and Raymond, to bring new energy and ideas while helping preserve the memory of those who served. Members take part in a range of activities, from monthly military drills to weekend encampments and large-scale battle reenactments. During the spring and summer, the group generally meets about once a month to practice military movements and procedures.

At encampments, members set up tents, march and demonstrate what a camp might have looked like during the war. Visitors can walk through the site, speak with participants and learn about daily life for soldiers. The group also travels to larger reenactments, sometimes joining hundreds or thousands of participants from across the country to recreate portions of actual battles.

Last July, about 20 to 30 members traveled to Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, where they joined other reenactors in portraying parts of the Battle of Gettysburg, including Pickett’s Charge.

Education is another important part of the organization’s work. Members visit schools and other community settings to show people the uniforms, equipment, food and medical supplies used during the Civil War. Donahue described a recent program at Ellsworth High School, where students had the chance to examine items and ask questions about soldiers’ experiences.

The group also visits retirement homes to share artifacts and talk about the Civil War.

Although most members portray soldiers, there are opportunities for people interested in other aspects of Civil War life. The group includes women portraying civilians, musicians who play fifes and drums, and participants who bring instruments such as banjos and fiddles. Some women also portray soldiers.

“Families and children take part, making the organization a family-friendly activity,” Donahue said. “Evenings at encampments can include campfires, music and singing after visitors have left.”

Joining Company A does not require previous reenactment experience.

Donahue said the main requirements are having an interest in the Civil War and a willingness to learn and make a genuine effort to portray the period accurately. However, participating as a soldier also does require a financial commitment. Members need a uniform and equipment, including a musket.

Annual dues are $25, but the cost of clothing and equipment is separate. The organization tries to make getting started more affordable. New recruits may also be able to borrow a coat and trousers at an event, giving them a chance to march and drill before deciding whether to commit to purchasing their own gear. 

The group generally meets for drills and events during the spring, summer and fall, with members potentially spending one or two weekends a month participating, though the time commitment varies. Those seeking voting membership are expected to attend at least six events each year.

For Donahue, he especially enjoys the battle reenactments and the evenings spent around the campfire. For those considering joining, he recommends first visiting the website, thirdmaine.org, and its Facebook page, to learn more and check the event calendar.

Interested residents can attend an event, meet members and ask questions before making a decision about joining. Those who decide they would like to join can contact Donahue through the email address listed on the website.

For residents of Windham and Raymond who want to explore Civil War history beyond books and exhibits, Company A offers a chance to learn more about the Civil War by taking part in reenactments. <