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Company D "First with the Most" |
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Getting Started
Reenacting has continued to gain in popularity as a way to "find out what it might have been like". In addition to the hobby's fascination one finds camaraderie with like minded people as they share this unique experience. Naturally, we think that the cavalry is the ultimate part of "living history". The addition of the horse brings another dimension that few people in today's world know much about; and with any living memory of the old horse cavalry waning, we feel it's important to pass on the legacy and tradition of this once vital service. We'll tell you now that it ain't easy and there are other units that are less demanding than we are, but when everything is right and the men and horses are working as a team, it is a spectacular sight to see and experience.
First, if you would like to be a member of the 7th you should study our rules and regulations in the
Membership Requirements page. We're not for everyone, but if you like a challenge and a chance to learn about the total cavalry impression, we just might be what you're looking for. Although we portray a Tennessee unit we have members from Mississippi, Alabama, Georgia, and even Michigan, as well as Tennessee.Next, you should contact our Commander- Captain Ronnie Fullwood, RR 1, Box 189A, Michie, Tn. 38357- e-mail:
Fullwoodcav@centuryinter.net He can provide additional information and get you in contact with a member closest to you. They will help you with the selection of your equipment and might be able to save you some money in the process. Don't buy anything beforehand as it might not be to our specifications. Some items may be available for loan during your first year.Since we are a mounted unit, your selection of a horse and your development of riding skills are important. If you are an experienced horseman, you will find that cavalry is not like anything else. If you are not, the following tips may help.
Gain a little riding experience before you purchase a horse. Many stables and wrangler camps offer lessons and rent horses for a nominal fee.
When you decide to purchase a horse be sure you will have a dependable and easily accessible place to keep it.
Shop around. It may be wise to take someone who is knowledgeable about horses with you. Older geldings with trail riding experience seem to do best.
Have a vet check the horse and make sure its coggins test and vaccinations are up to date.
Consider your towing vehicle and horse trailer. Used trailers can be purchased at a bargain, but be sure to check its suspension and plan to replace any old boards.
Teach your horse to neck rein and learn to use spurs to turn him. One hand must be free to hold a weapon.
Get your horse used to gunfire before you go to an event.
If you're on a budget ( and most of us are) here are some suggestions to keep down your initial expense:
Although the 7th allows several different kinds of saddles for a Confederate impression, your first saddle should be an 1859 McClellan. It will be appropriate for anything we do. Make sure the hardware is iron, not brass.
Felt hats can be purchased at many department stores in the fall. By adding a silk hatband and dark trim tape to the brim, and a little reshaping, you can make a decent slouch hat that will be less expensive than a sutler usually will be. ( Make sure it is a dark color)
You can get by with one pistol and a saber for a while. Though the original 7th Cavalry used mostly Colts, a Model 1858 Remington is sturdier. Extra cylinders are easy to replace on horseback and cheaper than buying another pistol. Sporting goods catalogues such as Cabellas or Bass Pro Shops usually run sales on cap-and-ball revolvers.
Consider Brogans for footwear as they are half the price of a decent pair of boots.
Buy the best canteen you can afford. A wool covered stainless steel one will give you good service and won't rust. The same goes for the homespun shell-jacket; buy the highest quality with the sleeves 1 inch longer than your size. ( It's gonna shrink).
A list of reputable suppliers is at the bottom of the
Membership Requirements page.
This page was created by Cris Malone and is the property of the 7th Tennessee Cavalry, Company D
