The First Maryland Volunteer
Infantry Regiment has been an active living history group since its formation in 1972. The
organization is made up of dedicated volunteers who have an interest in the history of the
Civil War period and strive to accurately portray the life of the common soldier or
civilians from the State of Maryland. The First is involved in living history
demonstrations, authentic encampments, educational lectures, ceremonial events, and battle
reenactments across the Mid-Atlantic region. The group takes part in programs regularly in
national and state parks; a privilege reserved for organizations with high standards of
discipline and authenticity. A wide variety of events take place every year. The First
designates one event each month as a company event, at which we urge our membership to
turn out. The First Maryland Vol. Infantry Regt
US/CS is a non-profit corporation in the State of Maryland. Unit drills are carried out
over the winter months; at either Ft. Washington or Ft. McHenry National Parks.
Campaigning in the field begins in early spring and runs through November. The unit puts
out a newsletter, The Old Line Dispatch. The newsletter, along with the Marching Orders
flyers are the way in which event information goes out to the membership. Members must
supply their own period clothing and equipment. A large number of sources are available
for both military and civilian reproduction goods.
In
the field the unit lives in period pattern canvas tents, cooks over fires, uses the same
type of equipment and same military drill that the Civil War soldier used. All this to
authentically portray their lives. Authenticity in appearance and attitude is the
watchword. There is great satisfaction in doing it right. At larger reenactments the First
Maryland joins with authentic groups from other states to form a full sized regimental
organization called the National Regiment of which the First is a charter member.
If you are looking for more than to simply read
about your countrys history. If you want to reach out and touch the past and do
honor to the memory of those that answered the call then join our ranks. Were always
looking for people to join us by the camp fires.