How to Be Historical Re-enactor - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Jul 15, 2021 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

How to Become

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The American Revolution was one of the most significant events in U.S. history. Its impact was felt throughout the world, and its legacy is still felt today. As a result, many people choose to become historical re-enactors to honor this important period in history.

Historical re-enactors dress in clothing and use weapons and tools that were used during the Revolution, and they often participate in events such as battles, skirmishes and encampments. Through these activities, they help educate the public and keep the memory of the Revolution alive. Historical re-enactors also promote an appreciation of the sacrifices made by the founding fathers and their contemporaries, which helps to ensure that their legacy continues to be passed on for future generations.

Steps How to Become

Research the type of re-enacting you wish to pursue. There are many different types of re-enacting, ranging from the American Civil War to World War II. Consider the time period and what interests you.
Find a group of re-enactors in your area. Many local history museums, historical societies, and parks host living history events and have contacts for re-enacting groups. You can also search online for groups in your area.
Contact a local group and ask about how to join. Most groups will provide information about their events, membership requirements, and dues.
Attend an event or meeting to learn more about the group and get to know other re-enactors.
Purchase or make the necessary clothing and equipment for the chosen time period. This may include uniforms, weapons, and other items such as tents, cooking supplies and period-appropriate tools.
Participate in a re-enactment event. This is the best way to practice and perfect your skills as a re-enactor.
Network with other re-enactors to learn more about the hobby, get advice, and find out about upcoming events.

Historical re-enactors can stay updated and competent by keeping abreast of the current research, engaging in conversations with other knowledgeable re-enactors, and taking the time to study and practice the skills associated with the era they are representing. By doing so, these individuals can stay current on the latest developments in the field, exchange ideas with other experts, and hone their skills to ensure accuracy in their portrayals. attending workshops, seminars, and events hosted by organizations dedicated to the study of history can provide re-enactors with valuable insights and equipment to keep their knowledge and presentation up-to-date.

Finally, networking and building relationships with other re-enactors can help to build a strong community of like-minded individuals who can provide support and collaboration in various ways. By taking all of these steps, historical re-enactors can maintain their expertise and ensure a high standard of quality in their work.

You may want to check Heritage Manager, History Professor, and Cultural Resources Manager for alternative.

Job Description

Living History Interpreter: An individual who is knowledgeable about the past and is able to accurately portray a character from a specific time period.
Historical Reenactor: A person who recreates various aspects of a certain historical era, often in a theatrical setting.
Costumer/Outfitter: An individual who specializes in creating and/or reproducing historically accurate clothing and accessories for reenactment purposes.
Weapons Specialist: A person who is knowledgeable on the weapons, tools, and other implements used in a particular time period.
Food Historian: An individual who is knowledgeable on the recipes, ingredients, and cooking methods used in a certain era.
Craftsman/Artist: A person who can create replica artifacts, tools, and other items from a particular time period.
Historian/Scholar: An individual who is knowledgeable on the history, culture, and events related to a particular era.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of relevant historical periods and events
Ability to accurately portray characters and their mannerisms
Ability to research and provide accurate information to the public
Understanding of costume design and construction
Knowledge of period weapons, tools, and equipment
Ability to use vocal inflection and body language to accurately portray characters
Ability to use props and set pieces in a convincing way
Strong public speaking skills
Ability to improvise or adapt to changing conditions
Ability to work as part of a team or independently

Historical re-enactors are those who portray people from the past in order to bring history to life. This requires an understanding of the time period, and the ability to accurately portray a character from that era. The most important skill for a historical re-enactor to have is attention to detail.

Being able to accurately recreate clothing, language, food, and other aspects of the period is vital to ensure authenticity. an understanding of the events of the time period and an ability to act naturally in character is essential. Historical re-enactors must also have an understanding of the social norms, customs, and values of the time period they are portraying, in order to provide an accurate representation of life during the era.

By having a thorough knowledge and appreciation for the era they are representing, historical re-enactors can give people a true understanding of what life was like in that time period.

Historiographer, Public Historian, and Archival Digitization Specialist are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

How did you become interested in historical re-enactment?
What period do you specialize in?
How do you prepare for a re-enactment?
What do you like most about historical re-enactment?
How do you ensure authenticity for each performance?
What challenges have you faced in re-enacting?
How do you balance accuracy with entertaining an audience?
Are there any specific costumes or weapons you are proficient in?
How do you ensure safety for yourself and audience members during re-enactments?
Are there any particular resources you use to stay up to date on historical accuracy?

Common Tools in Industry

Garb or period clothing. Clothing items specifically designed to replicate the style of a particular era. (e. g. a Victorian-style dress and hat for a 19th century re-enactment).
Historical weapons. Authentic replicas of weapons and tools used in a specific era. (e. g. a flintlock musket for a Revolutionary War re-enactment).
Props. Objects used to help create the setting and atmosphere of a particular era. (e. g. a spinning wheel for a Colonial re-enactment).
Costumes. Clothing items designed to look like those of a particular era. (e. g. a Civil War-style uniform for a Civil War re-enactment).
Accessories. Items used to complete the look of a particular era. (e. g. a fan and parasol for a Victorian re-enactment).
Documentation. Written or printed records that provide information about a particular era. (e. g. diaries, newspapers, and photos from the time period being re-enacted).

Professional Organizations to Know

American Historical Association (AHA)
American Association of State and Local History (AASLH)
National Association of Living History, Farms and Agricultural Museums (NALHFAM)
American Reenactors Association (ARA)
Society for Creative Anachronism (SCA)
National Council for Public History (NCPH)
Society for Historical Archaeology (SHA)
American Council for the Advancement of Living History (ACALH)
National Historical Re-enactment Alliance (NHRA)
American Revolution Round Table (ARRT)

We also have Exhibit Developer, Heritage Preservation Specialist, and Museum Studies Professional jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Living History. A form of public education and entertainment in which participants recreate historic events and activities for the purpose of teaching and learning.
Re-enactment. A form of historical re-enactment in which people dress up in period costumes and act out scenes from a particular era or event.
Historical Interpretation. An educational tool used to teach history through interactive and engaging activities. It is defined as a deliberate, planned effort to explain the past to current and future generations.
Authentic Costumes. Clothing designed to accurately replicate the style and fashion of a certain era.
Prop Replicas. Objects that have been artfully crafted to be exact replicas of items used in a particular era.
Period Weapons. Weapons that have been crafted using the same methods used by historical craftsmen to accurately replicate weapons used in a particular era.
Historical Accuracy. The degree to which re-enactments accurately represent the history they are portraying.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: What is Historical Re-enacting? A1: Historical re-enacting is the practice of recreating historic events, cultures, and lifestyles through educational and interactive activities such as costume, equipment, and activities. Q2: How many different time periods can be re-enacted? A2: Historical re-enacting covers a wide range of time periods, from ancient civilizations to the present day. Q3: What items are used for re-enacting? A3: Items used for historical re-enacting include clothing, weapons, tools, and other artifacts from the relevant time period. Q4: What are the benefits of historical re-enacting? A4: The benefits of historical re-enacting include increased knowledge of the past, improved understanding of cultural differences, and the development of social and teamwork skills. Q5: Where do people practice historical re-enacting? A5: Historical re-enacting is practiced in a variety of locations including living history museums, educational programs, fairs, and other events.