CLOTHING & EQUIPMENT
Clothing
The Order of the Ancient and Honorable Huntington Militia recreates life in the 18th Century and this includes all members at events wearing period-correct clothing. This clothing may be purchased from various vendors who specialize in supplying reenactors with what they need. Many reenactors make their own clothing. There are commercial patterns available and books that give detailed instructions. Of course, basic and advanced sewing skills are required depending upon the garment to be made. The preferred fabric is 100% linen. It is both period correct and will not melt if caught on fire. Fire can be a hazard when working near the camp fire or shooting blackpowder. It is important for the safety of the reenactor that no synthetic fabric blends are used. Other acceptable fabrics are Fustian - a linen/cotton natural blend, wool, or cotton (though cotton was very expensive in the 18th Century and had to be imported from India). Garments may be machine sewn in places where the stitching does not show, but exposed stitching should be hand-stitched. Authenticity in appearance is very important. It is the first part of your impression that the public sees. The militia impression allows a broad range of clothing styles as militia members were citizens and not professional soldiers. Men reported to militia duty wearing their day to day clothing. There was no official uniform - though, The Order of the Ancient and Honorable Huntington Militia were issued open front Hunting Frocks - a fringed, caped, over-shirt worn over the shirt and weskit and closed with a leather belt.
While a basic outfit is necessary to fully participate at events, not all of what is listed is required. When new members join they are guided in what they will need to get started. Not all men need carry a musket. Men may become members of the cannon crew without one. Members portraying civilians may outfit themselves accordingly.
BASIC CLOTHING REQUIREMENTS
Gentlemen's Clothing
Shirt
Breeches
Long Stockings
Weskit
Neck Cloth
Buckle Shoes
Leather Garters
Tricorn Hat, Flat Hat, or Cocked Hat
Frock Coat (Optional)
Open Front Hunting Frock
Leather Belt (worn with the Hunting Frock)
Lady's Clothing
Shift
Stays
Long Stockings
Pockets
Petticoat
Short Gown or Bed Gown
Apron
Cap
Buckle Shoes or Flat Leather Shoes
For Fancy Events
Mantua (Gown)
Equipment
Equipment may be purchased at a variety of vendors who specialize in period-correct, 18th Century merchandise.
BASIC EQUIPMENT REQUIREMENTS
For Men At Arms
Flintlock Musket: Brown Bess, Fowler, or Rifle
Cartridge Box
Bayonet with scabbard on a sling or belt frog
Haversack
Canteen
For All
Pocket Watch, with no cover (wrist watches prohibited)
Mess kit including wood or metal plate, period-correct knife and fork, tin cup and a wooden bowl, if desired.
For eye glass wearers, period-correct frames are available
Members may add other correct accessories for their personal impressions.