CLOTHING & EQUIPMENT

Clothing

The Order of the Ancient and Honorable Huntington Militia recreates life in the 18th Century and this includes all member 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.

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.

VISIT OUR PHOTOS PAGE TO SEE EXAMPLES OF OUR CLOTHING AND EQUIPMENT