Case for the Formation of Company messes




Company Messes


I "lifted" (with the Author's permission) this post from the internet (Bob Szabo's forum). I thought it was an excellent article and worth posting on our site.

From an anonymous source:

I have noticed a recent authenticity trend among some reenacting units that I would like to run by you for comment. There is a move afoot in some larger units to informally incorporate "authentic messes" within the unit. As I see it, this is nothing more than a spin off of a method I've seen used successfully in getting die-hard Rebs to take on a good part-time Federal impression. The idea goes like this, much like the original companies broke down into informal small messes of pards for food preparation and bivouac during active campaign, we establish an 'authentic mess' within our existing unit. Let us call it the "ABC Mess" (ABC) for lack of a better name at this time. The ABC Mess functions within the military confines of the existing Company and is not a separatist or break off group. It marches under the same chain of command of the existing company but elects to adopt a strict 'campaign' impression at SPECIFIC historically significant events. The ABC Mess chooses to live for the most part on the ground in shelter halves, eating period rations, and engaging in period discussion around the campfire with limited period libation (what an enlisted man could get away with without being placed under arrest). The mess continually works on their impression through research. The mess establishes a recommended supplier list for equipment upgrades as required, and shares this information with new unit members as FYI. A portion (a page or so?) of the existing newsletter might be dedicated to the ABC Mess. This can work to create a positive image of the mess, and build esprit-de-corps by listing the members that are committed to doing it right, and sharing research with the unit, etc. A positive, non-snobby, lead by example attitude is required. A willingness to accept any and all unit members into the mess provided they sign on and agree to the minimum standards is also required. If we do it right, we can bring most of the better reenactors into the fold (most without them even knowing it). At the same time allow for the less authentic and even members of the mess to cut up at the non-mess designated Powder Burners and social/family events. If done correctly, this could be a very good thing and a win-win for everyone.




Email: phillipslegion@yahoo.com


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