27th Virginia Co. G “Shriver Greys”

Index 1. Bylaws …………………………….Pg 3-62. Uniform Standards ………………. Pg 7-83. Camps and Tentage ………………. Pg 94. Military Etiquette ………………… Pg 9-105. Safety Regulations ……………….. Pg 11-176. History of the 27th ……………….. Pg 18-197. Cpt. Daniel M. Shriver …………… Pg 20

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27th Virginia Infantry Co. G

Bylaws

The 27th Virginia Infantry, Company G (Shriver Greys), hereafter referred to as the 27th Virginia, is an autonomous Confederate Civil War reenacting group, based in Northeast Ohio. This document represents certain information, rules, and regulations that are integral to our organization. Changes may only be made as voted on and approved by the membership.

Article I: Purpose 1. To form a Civil War re-enacting unit, and create a safe, family friendly organization for men, women, and children. 2. To promote quality, historically accurate impressions, and to support fellow units at their individual events. 3. To honor the memory of the Confederate soldier, and the men, women, and children of the Confederate States of America during the years 1861-1865 through accurate portrayal of them at reenactments and living history events.

Article II: Membership 1. Membership is open to individuals and families regardless of age. Military and civilian impressions are welcome.2. Military members must be at least sixteen (16) years of age to carry a weapon. Military members ages twelve (12) to fifteen (15) may participate as color bearers, litter bearers, messengers, aides, or musicians.3. The 27th Virginia is a “family oriented” group, and encourages the involvement of the spouses and children of its members. As such, women and children are permitted to be present in camp, provided they are dressed appropriately to the time period being portrayed. 4. Membership of all new members, or reinstatement of former members, if occurring during the year, will be subject to acceptance to the company by a majority vote of the Executive Committee. Persons joining at the beginning of the year will be approved by a majority vote of existing members present at the first business meeting. All new members will be subject to a one year probationary period, after which, if no issues have arisen according to the Executive Committee, they will become a full voting member in good standing.5. If a member chooses to resign, they are to inform the military officer in charge, an Administrative Officer, or a member of the Executive Committee.6. If a member of the company chooses to resign during the course of the year, the subject will be referred to the Executive Committee for disposition. The resignation will be reviewed to determine the cause, and an attempt will be made to equitably resolve the issue. If no resolution can be reached, the resignation will be accepted. If the resignation disrupts the organizational structure of the group, and there is a succession in place to fill the vacancy created, the successor will temporarily take the position created until the Executive Committee can arrange a meeting to submit the matter to the full membership for a vote. If there is no successor in place to fill the vacancy created by a resignation, the Executive Committee will appoint a member of the group to fill the vacancy until a meeting can be held for a vote by the membership.

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Article III: Structure of the organization 1. The 27th Virginia will be governed by a military chain of command at all events in which it participates, and military protocol will be observed. The ranking military officer (Captain, Lieutenant, Sr. NCO) present at an event is responsible for the safety and oversight of the unit. He therefore has the authority to remove any individual in the group from any drill, battle scenario, or event, who fails to meet event safety standards or refuses to follow directions or orders from his command.1A. The Captain is the senior ranking military officer of the group. The Captain’s responsibilities include command of the unit during all events, scenarios, and drills; acting as the liaison between the unit and battalion command staff or event organizers; communication to members necessary details concerning events or drills, including camp layout, time schedules, locations of drills, meal arrangements, event rules or standards, etc. The Captain will also be given time at any unit meeting to present information, solicit opinions, or make announcements. As the ranking military officer, he will also be involved in resolving disputes between members or between units, or any other issue that may arise that affects the unit as a whole. This position shall be voted upon annually 1B. The Captain may request an Executive Officer or Lieutenant within the military command. This person will be nominated by the Captain alone, and voted upon by the membership, being elected by a majority approval. This person would then be second in command after the Captain, and would carry out duties as assigned by the Captain, or in the Captain’s absence. This position shall be voted upon annually, but only if a nomination of the Captain is presented.1C. Non Commissioned Officers (NCOs) will be utilized within the unit at the Captain’s discretion. As in any military command, they will execute orders and assignments from the Captain or Executive Officer, and deliver those instructions to the military membership. The Captain of the group will set standards for promotion of military members to NCO positions.2. The 27th Virginia may choose to have an Administrative Branch consisting of up to five members (President, Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer, and Civilian Coordinator). Each office will have a 1 year term, with no limit on terms. Any member twenty-one (21) years of age or older is eligible for election to an administrative office. The Administrative Branch will handle the business affairs of the unit, and oversee scheduling of events and the conduction of meetings. The unit may choose, for any given year or election cycle, to have less than five members in the Administrative Branch, or to combine positions. (For example, having a Vice President / Treasurer).2A. The President shall schedule and preside over group meetings, and communicate to the membership the times and places for these meetings, as well as any agenda items or topics of discussion. The President shall also plan any extracurricular activities or social events and preside over them. He will be involved in any business affairs, or issues that arise within the group.2B. The Vice President shall assist the President in his responsibilities, and preside over any meetings in his absence. The Vice President shall also assist the Treasurer and Secretary with their duties as requested.2C. The Secretary shall keep minutes of all meetings conducted, as well as maintaining and distributing a membership roster. They will also collect and keep a list of emergency medical forms or other information required by the unit. The Secretary will work with the Treasurer to keep records pertaining to the collection or distribution of monies.2D. The Treasurer will collect membership dues, and distribute any unit monies due to the Battalion or governing groups to which the 27th Virginia belongs. They will also collect and distribute monies used for the purchase of gunpowder, food, or any other unit expenditures.2E. The Civilian Coordinator will work with civilian members by assisting them with their impressions, encouraging the involvement of civilians in camp life, overseeing the campsites of civilian members, and helping to resolve any disputes that may arise between civilian members.

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3. All business will be conducted at meetings convenient for the majority of the membership. Members will be notified of all meetings and will be afforded every opportunity to attend. Business proposals must be voted on by the membership, and passed by a simple majority. 4. Each member will have one (1) vote in all business or questions brought before the membership. The age requirement to vote within the organization will be sixteen (16) years of age. Selection of maximum effort events will be done at a 27th Virginia yearly business meeting. The meeting is to be held as close as possible to the start of each new calendar year. 5. An Executive Committee shall exist to review resignation and membership issues as mentioned previously, as well as to hear and dispose of any grievances brought to it by the membership concerning issues within the unit or disputes between members, including the interpretation and enforcement of the company bylaws. Rulings shall be determined by a simple majority vote of the committee. The Executive Committee shall consist of the current Captain, President, Treasurer, Civilian Coordinator, and one other at-large representative elected by the membership. An alternate representative shall also be elected by the membership to fill in for any committee member unable to be present for a meeting. Article IV: Alcohol and Illegal drugs 1. The consumption of alcohol in camp is forbidden for military and civilian members, as well as guests visiting the camp. Anyone found with alcohol will be asked to dispose of it or leave the event. 2. Illegal drugs and drug paraphernalia are strictly forbidden within the 27th Virginia during reenactments or events. 3. Due to safety concerns, members violating the alcohol and drug policy will not be allowed to take the field during a reenactment, and may be dismissed from the organization. 4. Any violation of State or Federal laws at events will be grounds for automatic dismissal from the 27th Virginia. 5. Event staff may elect to notify authorities for violations of the above. Article V: Authenticity / Camp Life 1. Members will maintain a historically accurate and authentic impression of soldiers and civilians that lived in the State of Virginia during the years 1861-1865. Inaccurate or non-historically correct impressions due to medical and financial considerations will be taken into account on a case-by-case basis.2. Women who wish to portray a soldier may do so, provided they do their best to conceal their gender, and are able to perform the duties of a soldier. 3. Military camps will be laid out according to military regulations and in a manner appropriate to the scenario being portrayed. All non-period items within military camps will be effectively concealed during duty hours. 4. Members and soldiers may stay in modern or civilian camps if they so desire. However, they are expected to be present with their unit during duty hours, unless excused. Members leaving the camp during duty hours will advise an Officer or the NCO in charge, and will advise him of their destination and the time they expect to return. This is for safety purposes. 5. The leadership of the 27th Virginia recognizes that at reenactments, and at other living history presentations, the “military” aspect is only a part of the overall event. Those individuals portraying military members should be willing and available to participate in scheduled battle scenarios and drills, however when these battle scenarios and drills are completed, those members are free to participate in other activities such as dances, religious services, visiting sutler areas, sightseeing, etc. The leadership of the 27 th Virginia will make every attempt to schedule nonessential military activities so as not to conflict with other events that are important to the members of the group. 6. Uniforms and equipment will be appropriate for the time period and scenario portrayed. A mid war, “generic” impression is appropriate unless otherwise specified. A plain and functional appearance appropriate to soldiers in the field is generally desired.

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7. The unit may elect to provide a company mess at events that supplies 3 meals; Saturday breakfast and dinner, and Sunday breakfast. Participation is optional, but those desiring to partake must have paid the meal organizer, or have made other arrangements, at least one week in advance. Pre-payment for event meals at a prior event is desirable.8. Military and civilian members participating in unit events are expected to share in company “chores,” such as gathering firewood, hauling water into camp, or assisting with meal preparation if partaking of the company mess. These assignments will be communicated to the members through the military chain of command.9. It is not intended to require members to acquire their gear from specific suppliers, nor to require expensive handcrafted uniforms and equipment. However, the 27th Virginia may compile a list of recommended vendors and suppliers for the benefit of new members and those who wish to upgrade their impressions. 10. Authentic drill procedures as prescribed in Gilham’s original manuals will be followed, with any necessary changes due to safety considerations. The commanders and NCO’s will use Gilham’s manual for references and instruction. 11. The ranking military officer shall have the authority to prohibit unsafe or non-authentic weapons, accoutrements, or uniform articles from being used or displayed during any event. Article VI. Membership Dues 1. Yearly membership dues will be assessed per person or family.2. Payment of the unit’s annual membership dues is considered a requirement for membership or participation at any event. The membership dues must be paid no later than the end of February each year. Any individual that has not paid their membership fee by the prescribed date will be dropped from the roster and prevented from taking place in unit events until the dues are paid.3. Additional assessments may be voted on by the members for the purpose of 27th Virginia unit purchases or expenses throughout the year Article VII: Safety 1. In order to participate in a battle scenario, individuals must have attended a Company and /or Battalion drill held prior to it, and have the approval of the unit’s commanding military officer. 2. Company drills will be conducted using Gilham’s established, historically correct procedures. 3. The ranking military officer (Captain, Lieutenant, Sr. NCO) present at an event is responsible for the safety and oversight of the unit. He therefore has the authority to remove any individual, civilian or military, in the group from any drill, battle scenario, or event, who fails to meet event safety standards or refuses to follow directions or orders from his command.

Article VIII: Decency 1. As the members of the 27th Virginia are portraying men, women, and children of the mid 1800’s, we need to present an accurate picture of their morality and standards. Gentlemen of that era would not dream of using coarse or vulgar language in the presence of women and children, and ladies would certainly not use the same in public. As well as presenting an accurate historical picture of the behavior of the time period to spectators, we strive to show respect and decency towards the other members of the group even when no spectators are present. It is recognized that occasional coarse language may be present during drills and battle scenarios, but when the group is in camp, or sitting around the campfire at night in mixed company, we need to remember that foul, vulgar, or sexually suggestive language is not appropriate.

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The following pages are for informational purposes only. They provide valuable information to the reenactor, and contain historical insight, but are not to be considered part of the bylaws of the 27 th Virginia, Co. G.The bylaws as listed in the previous pages will take precedence over any information that follows.

. Uniform Standards

Uniform Coat - Early War Enlisted - Militia uniforms o single-breasted frock coats of jean cloth or wool with trim.

Early War Officer - Also Militia uniforms and single and double breasted frock coats with trim. Cloth should be jean cloth or satinette. Wool was available but very expensive.

Mid War Enlisted - A standard, untrimmed Richmond Depot Type II style with shoulder straps (epaulets) and belt loops. Nine button front, in jean cloth or wool. (This is the impression that you want to shoot for).

Mid War Officer - Single and double breasted frock coats and Type II jackets without trim in jean cloth and satinette. The frock coat was gradually being used less and less.

Late War Enlisted - Richmond Type II and III in blue/grey kersey wool. Also Peter Tait and Co. jackets in blue/grey kersey

Late War Officer - Officers were being issued Richmond Type II & III's at this time as well. Only the most senior staff members had frock coats due to their high price.

Buttons - May be either Block I in brass, wood, eagle, and civilian style buttons. State issue should be for early war impressions only.

Uniform Pants - Should be of period style with a high waist that covers the navel and of a jean cloth fabric. Pockets may be side seam or mule ear. Buttons for the fly should be should be bone or wood. Should be some Yankee blue trousers as well.

Footwear - Brogans or Jefferson bootees should be black or russet in color, with pegged or sewn soles and rough or smooth side out. Civilian styles were common too. Most junior officers wore brogans as well. There are too many boots on junior officers out there.

Socks - Should be 100% wool or cotton. No modern white socks or hunting socks. No elastic or nylon. Colors should be gray or off-white.

Shirt - Either Army issue or civilian style. Buttons should be bone, wood, or glass.

Hats - Should be a good mix of slouch hats, forage caps and kepis. Lean more toward the caps and kepis during the early war and lean heavily on slouch hats during the late war. Throw in some Federal caps as well and you’re well covered. Slouch

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hats should be formed with stitch or ribbon edged, crown ribbon and lined with period stamp. No hillbilly hats. We were citizen soldiers not hillbillies. There should be little or no bugles, regimental numbers, or other hat brass displayed.

Shirt - Either Army issue cotton, or civilian style homespun. Buttons should be bone, wood, or glass.

Weapons - 3-banded Model 1853 Enfield’s, Model 1861 Springfield’s, Richmond’s, and .69 flintlock conversions are all appropriate. .69 flintlock conversions should be restricted to early to mid-war events. All visible modern markings on the barrel and lock plate should be removed and replaced with correct period stamps. Slings, if used, should be black or russet leather or canvas.

Cartridge Box and Sling - Should be Confederate issue, Enfield, or captured Federal with tins, in either black, russet or dark brown leather. Only the Federal box should have a plate. Slings should be of black, russet, or dark brown leather or mid to late war you could use a black treated linen sling. Cartridges should be constructed using period wrappers and period techniques and should be bundled in groups of ten. Remember ammunition was issued. Cartridge pack labels should have red or black lettering.

Cap Box - Should be black, russet or dark brown in either the U. S. Model 1850 or Enfield

Waist belt’s and Buckle - Early war should be CS oval and state issue. After that should be GA. Frame, Confederate fork tongue, and English snake belts in black, russet or dark brown leather. Also a black treated linen belt would be appropriate. Scabbard, Bayonet and Throng - Scabbards should be the U.S. Model 1859-1863 variants, the British Enfield type or the C.S. bayonet, Richmond Arsenal pattern.. Color should be black.

Haversacks - Use either the Confederate model of plain cotton duck or the US model in tarred black. The soldiers cherished the US model. However, the Confederate model can be washed more easily.

Canteen - Confederate drum or Federal Bullseye or smooth side is acceptable. No stainless steel. Wooden canteens tend to leak but your water will taste better.

Blanket - U.S. regulation (gray wool jean with black strips and U.S. sewn in the middle), U.S. early war emergency issue (gray wool with dark brown stripes), civilian blankets, homemade quilts (should have geometric designs) are all good choices.

Knapsacks - More common than you think. It was common to see a Confederate soldier equipped with both blanket roll and knapsack. Good choices are a Federal double bag, a Confederate single bag made of painted canvas or cloth, an Isaac Campbell import from Great Britain or a Kibler (similar to the Mexican War type).

“Ask Before You Buy”

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Camps and Tentage Camps should be segregated by type. Campaign (bedrolls, shebangs, and dog tents) should be on the extreme outer perimeter of the company streets. A-tents should be closer to the Battalion camps. Supernumerary tents (walls and sibleys) should be at the top of the company streets. Tent flies should not be erected in the company streets. Company streets should be kept clean at all times.

No modern anachronisms should be visible. This includes coolers, cans, bottles, plastic bags, sleeping bags etc. These and like items should be kept in a tent or covered with a period blanket or ground cloth. There are ways to disguise modern containers. It only takes a few extra seconds. Eggs can be put into a basket or bowl and covered with cloth. Salt, pepper, sauces, milk etc must be placed in period containers, or bottles. Speckleware is not authentic. This includes plates, cups, coffee pots etc. There are a few types that are closely authentic but historic documentation must be included if you plan to use them. It’s best to stay away from them. Tin and glassware is authentic and economic.

Drinks should be poured from modern containers inside a tent or other concealed place and brought out afterwards. Coolers concealed in a box should be opened only when the public cannot see. Virtually all food can be stored in jars with a piece of cloth and string tied to hide the modern lid.

Authentic cigarettes were rare and costly. Modern cigarettes are not permitted. If you must smoke, try a pipe or cigar.

Flags should be made of period fabrics and be authentic to the unit being portrayed. Remember most militia flags were retired early in the war.

Military Etiquette A soldier should be soldierly in dress, soldierly in carriage, and soldierly in courtesies. On all occasions of duty, except fatigue, and when out of quarters, the coat or jacket shall be buttoned and hooked at the collar. Sergeants, with muskets, will salute by bringing the left hand across the body, so as to strike the musket near the right shoulder. Corporals out of ranks, and privates, not sentries, will carry their muskets at a shoulder as sergeants and salute in like manner. When a soldier without arms or side-arms only meets an officer, he is to raise his hand to the right side of the visor of the cap, palm to the front, elbow raised as high as the shoulder, looking at the same time in a respectful manner at the officer, who will return the compliment. A non-commissioned officer or soldier seated, will rise on the approach of an officer, and make the customary salutation. If standing, he will turn toward the officer for the same purpose. If parties remain in the same area, such compliments need not be repeated. When an officer approaches a number of enlisted men, the word "attention" should be given by someone who perceives him and all should stand at attention and salute.

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An officer armed with a saber, renders the saber salute, if the saber is drawn; otherwise he salutes with the hand. Salutes are not rendered when marching at the double quick time or at the trot or gallop. Non-commissioned officers and soldiers should pay the same salutations to officers of other regiments, Navy and Marines. When speaking to an officer a soldier should speak in the third person such as, "Does the Colonel want his horse this morning? Do not say "Do you want your horse this morning." In speaking to an officer an enlisted man should refer to another enlisted man by his proper title, as "Sergeant Smith, Private Ryan". When asked his name, a soldier should answer "Private Jones, Sir". Do not use slang while speaking to an officer. After a soldier finishes a task he was ordered to do, he should always report back to that same officer who gave him the order i.e. "The Captains message has been delivered.” Always salute an officer just as soon as that officer makes the first move to leave. Upon entering an office or tent, a soldier should knock, whether open or closed, enter, taking off the hat, and remain just inside the door until asked what is wanted; then go to a few feet from the officer, stand at attention and salute. On completion, salute, face toward the door and go out. When an enlisted man receives a message, verbal or written, from an officer for delivery, he will salute, and say "Yes Sir", and execute an about-face and proceed immediately to the recipient. Upon reaching the recipient the soldier will salute and say "Sir, Captain Jones presents his compliments". If the officer sending the message is junior to the one receiving it, then the soldier will not present the compliment but say "Sir, Lt. Smith directed me to tell the Captain" etc. The compliments of a junior are never presented to a senior.

“It is well that war is so terrible, or we should grow too fond of it.”

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Safety Regulations 1. DEFINITIONS:

1.1 The Command Staff of the 27th Virginia shall be responsible for and handle all matters pertaining to safety in camp and on the field.

1.2 The term WEAPON shall be defined as any and all devices designed to fire a powder driven projectile or blank charge and all bladed weapons such as, but not limited to swords, sabers, bayonets, lances and knives. Whether a weapon is actually functional or loaded makes no difference.

1.3 The term ACCOUTREMENTS shall be defined as any and all issued type military goods taken onto the field. These items include, but are not limited to cartridge box, cap box, bayonet and scabbard, belt, haversack and canteen.

1.4 The term FIELD shall be defined as the area in which drills and battles take place.

1.5 The term ORDNANCE OFFICER/ SERGEANT is the person selected by the individual company to perform the task of inspecting and clearing the weapons as safe.

1.6 The term SOLDIER refers to a unit member, who carries a black powder weapon onto the field. The minimum age to carry a black powder weapon is 16 years old.

2. INSPECTIONS:

2.1 Every member of the 27th Virginia, military or civilian, who desires to carry a weapon, loaded or unloaded, shall participate in weapon inspections.

2.2 Weapons with fixed bayonets should never be laid on the ground.

2.3 Initial pre-scenario weapon inspections will be conducted by company officers or their designees in camp prior to all battalion formations. (See Initial Inspections below)

2.4 Final pre-scenario weapon inspections of the company will be conducted in the presence of the Company Command personnel prior to the company moving onto the field. (See Final Inspection below)

2.5 Prior to each scenario, company staff officers shall present their weapons for inspection to Brigade provost personnel.

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2.6 Any weapon found to be defective or questionable for any reason must be failed. Such weapons will not be carried in any formation or activity until repairs are made and it has been re-inspected.

2.7 It is recommended that each company ordnance sergeant keep a list of his company's weapons. This list should include the owner's name, weapon description and serial number.

Initial Inspection:

Prior to leaving the bivouac area for the final pre-scenario inspection, company officers will insure that the following inspections are completed.

2.8 Canteens are filled

2.9 Cap boxes and cartridge boxes contain approved caps and cartridges in sufficient quantities for the impending scenario.

2.10 Weapons will be checked for half-cock safety and proper lock function.

2.11 Bayonet scabbards must have metal tips and bayonets must fit securely on weapons.

2.12 Check for barrel obstructions with ramrods.

2.13 There will be no snapping of caps or firing by files in the camps.

Final Inspection:

When the companies are formed in their battalions at the final staging area, battalion ordnance personnel or battalion officers will request the presence of division provost to observe the final inspection. With division provost personnel present, the battalion will be inspected using the following guidelines:

2.14 Check for barrel obstructions with ramrods.

2.15 Snap caps at high elevation by company volley. Check for malfunctions.

2.16 Individually snap caps with muzzles no more than two inches from the ground. No fixed bayonets during this phase of the inspection.

2.17 When individually snapping caps into the ground, have rear rank "about face." Clear area of anyone in front of and behind the company.

2.18 If the unit commander wishes or if weather conditions dictate, a firing by file with blank charges will be conducted.

During Scenarios:

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2.19 Once the company has completed the final inspection and has departed for the scenario, no one may enter the ranks of any unit without being inspected by company or battalion ordnance personnel or safety officer.

2.20 Company Command Staff personnel will be responsible dealing with non-functioning weapons during scenarios.

2.21 If a weapons misfires, the soldier will recap the weapon and fire again. If the weapon does not fire with a second percussion cap, the soldier will retire from the firing line and call on a file closer for assistance in clearing the weapon.

2.22 Each file closer will have a vent pick with his accouterments.

3. WEAPONS AND ACCOUTREMENTS:

Section 3: RIFLES, and MUSKETS

3.1 Only proper weapons of the period will be allowed. No Hawkins, Plains or modern weapons or ammunition are permitted.

3.2 All weapons will be functional, clean and free of barrel obstructions. Weapons will be inspected in the following manner:

3.3 The unit to be inspected will be formed up an in "open order". Bayonets are fixed and ramrods "sprung."

3.4 The inspector will go to each file and, as he does so, the file member will present his weapon to the inspector.

3.5 The inspector will raise and lightly drop the ramrod, listening for the clear "PING" that shows the barrel is clear and clean.

3.6. The inspector will then check the bayonet-locking device (ring). If the bayonet is of the type that uses the front sight and the front sight is not present, the bayonet may not be used.

3.7 The stock will be checked for cracks.

3.8 The half-cock will be checked by applying pressure, equal to but not exceeding the weight of the weapon, to the trigger. The hammer will be checked for looseness and correct alignment over the nipple.

3.9 The nipple will be checked for deformity, cracks and stability.

3.10 The maximum load for .577 or 58 caliber weapon is 70 grains of FF / FFF black powder. The maximum load for a .69 caliber or larger weapon is 80 grains of FF / FFF black powder.

3.11 Weapons will be capped off to ensure they are clear.

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3.12 At the commanding officer’s discretion, the unit, including any non-unit personnel taking the field with the 27th Virginia will load and fire one cartridge by file. Personnel having misfires at anytime during the inspection will step out of ranks, ten paces to the rear, where ordnance personnel will clear the weapon, and make the corrective action. The soldier will then reload and fire one cartridge prior to rejoining the ranks. Any weapon that fails to operate safely will not be carried onto the field.

4. PISTOLS:

4.1 Officers are encouraged to carry loaded pistols.

4.2 Pistols will only be carried by Officers, and Senior NCO’s.

4.3 No more than 1 pistol will be carried by a person.

4.4 All pistols will be carried in a proper military holster with a flap capable of being fastened.

4.5 Pistols which are to be loaded for a scenario will be inspected in camp before the Battalion forms up for battle.

4.6 The battalion ordnance inspector will ensure that all pistols and spare cylinders carried by personnel are inspected prior to their being loaded and carried into the field. Pistols will be inspected in the following manner:

4.7 Pistols will not loaded. The cylinder will be removed from frame. The barrel will be removed if possible. These parts will be handed over to the inspector.

4.8 The cylinder will be checked to make sure light can be seen through the nipples while looking through front of cylinder. Nipples will be checked for condition.

4.9 The barrel will be checked for obstructions by (a) looking down the barrel and using a piece of wooden dowel, which is placed in the barrel and allowed to go through the entire length of the barrel.

4.10 The pistol is now reassembled, the safety checked, and the action inspected for proper function.

4.11 The maximum load for a pistol is 30 grains of FFF black powder.

4.12 When loading pistols, personnel will load in pairs, each watching the other for errors.

4.13 No "wonder wads" will be allowed. Wading material such as cream of wheat or corn meal is recommended. The charge and wad shall be completely sealed to the top of the chamber with grease.

5. EDGED WEAPONS:

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5.1 Bayonets must have a working locking mechanism and be locked in place if bayonet is fixed. If the bayonet uses the front sight of the rifle, the sight must be there or the bayonet will not be fixed.

5.2 Bayonet blades must be totally covered with the tip covered in metal, or if of a Confederate type, it must have a wooden plug at bottom, and leather of the scabbard stitched all the way down.

5.3 Swords must be of proper period type and be in good serviceable condition. Leather sword scabbards must be totally covered with the tip covered in metal. Metal sword scabbards must be in a safe and serviceable condition. Persons carrying swords in battle should do a self-check of hilts to ensure they are good and tight.

5.4 Carrying large belt or sheath knives into battle is discouraged. If they are carried they must be tied into their scabbard. It will not be unsheathed at any time.

6. ACCOUTREMENTS:

6.1 Canteens will be of the proper type, constructed of wood, tin, or steel. No glass bottles, padded or not, slung or carried in the haversack is acceptable.

6.2 Canteens will be carried on the field, they will be full of water, and will be checked before leaving for the field.

6.3 Cartridge Boxes will be of the proper type. Cartridge box tins are strongly recommended by the Brigade Safety Officer. Most events require tins in boxes. At no time will caps or cartridges be carried in pockets, hands or held in the mouth.

6.4 Cap boxes must be of the proper type, with a flap that can be secured. in the field.

7. CARTRIDGES AND LOADS:

7.1 NO live rounds with projectiles are allowed at any time in camp or on the field.

7.2 Projectiles used for display in camps or for living history must separate from the cartridges. NEVER store projectiles in cartridge box.

7.3 Cartridges will be made of plain paper. No writing or lettering is allowed. No Penny wrappers or paper with staples will be accepted.

7.4 Wadding should not be used unless specifically required for that type of weapon.

7.5 Cartridges will be inspected for authenticity and size.

7.6 Wonder wads will NOT be used. See 4.13 for pistol loading information.

8. REPAIRS AND SERVICE:

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8.1 Any weapon that fails while on the field must be inspected by the Command Staff before it is used again.

8.2 It is recommended that if a soldier buys a new part for a weapon, he should have his Ordnance Sergeant install or check the installation of the part, before the weapon is used.

9. SAFETY ON THE FIELD:

9.1 Participants must be 16 years of age or older to carry any weapon, i.e., rifle, musket, carbine, pistol or edged weapon on the battlefield at battle re-enactments or living histories.

9.1a It is highly recommended that Regiments having participants between the ages of 16 to 18 years of age have parental consent in writing and/or a parent present on the field in order to take part in events.

9.2 All weapons will be treated as loaded at all times.

9.3 Any weapon that is dropped on the ground must be cleared by the Command Staff before the weapon goes back into the line.

9.4 Any soldier that has a misfire will immediately inform the Ordnance Sergeant who will retire 10 paces with the weapon and try to clear it. If the weapon cannot be cleared, it MUST not rejoin the formation or be used for the remainder of the battle.

9.5 Under no circumstances will weapons be grounded on the field after they have had their pre-battle inspection.

9.6 Two band rifles will be used at the discretion of the Company / Brigade commanders.

9.7 Cartridges will not be laid on the ground for “instant" use. Dropped cartridges will be inspected for debris before being used. Under no circumstances shall cartridges be held in the teeth except to tear the cartridge during loading.

9.8 Ramrods will not be drawn on the field by soldiers. The exceptions to this rule is the Command Staff who can use the ramrod to prove a weapon clear after retiring 10 paces.

9.9 Percussion caps will NOT be carried in the teeth or held in the hand to speed up loading.

9.10 When loading on the field, proper loading procedures will be followed. Cartridge papers will not be loaded. Powder will be poured and paper discarded. The spent percussion cap is never removed before the powder is put in the barrel.

9.11 Six wing caps designed for modern in-line black power weapons will not be carried or used. Any person found to have them in their cap pouch will immediately surrender them to the Officer/Sergeant or leave the ranks.

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9.12 Bayonets will not be fixed on the field except (a): To stack arms before battle or (b): After the battle and after weapons are cleared.

9.13 It is highly recommended that smoking in the ranks should not be per-mitted.

9.14 No person will simulate becoming a casualty with a loaded weapon.

9.15 When simulating becoming a casualty, the individual will not throw themselves backward without ascertaining if it is safe to do so.

9.16 All firearms including revolvers will be cleared on the field before returning to camp. Whenever possible the individual units will form and clear as a Brigade.

9.17 No firing at troops at less than 25 feet. No direct aiming at troops within 40 feet.

9.18 At no time will mounted troops be fired upon at close range, and never shoot close to or directly at an animal.

9.19 There will be no hand-to-hand combat unless previously arraigned.

9.20 Tampions will not be carried onto the battlefield.

9.21 “Medic” is the word for a real emergency. At the call for “Medic” only qualified medical personnel should respond. Upon hearing this call it should be repeated up and down the line.

12. SAFETY IN CAMP:

12.1 Campfires shall not be left unattended. A container of water will be positioned close by each fire pit.

12..2 One camp fire for officers row, and one cooking fire at the end of the company street. ( Depending on event

regulations )

12.3 Fireworks of any type are prohibited.

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History of the 27th Virginia

The 27th Virginia Infantry was organized in the Lexington, Virginia area for service on May 30, 1861. Company G was from the Wheeling, Virginia area (now West Virginia). From then until the unit was accepted into Confederate service on July 1, 1861, it bore the designation of the 6th Virginia State Infantry. When mustered into Confederate service, the regiment contained only seven companies. An eighth company was subsequently added. Under the provisions of War Department regulations, the 27th Virginia Infantry should have been designated as a battalion rather than as a regiment. Orders to the effect of such a designation change appear to have been issued in mid-April, 1862, but never carried out - probably originally, because the unit was actively involved in the spring campaign of 1862 and, later, because of the unit's already established reputation as part of the "Stonewall" Brigade.

Upon being mustered into Confederate service the 27th Virginia Infantry was assigned to the Army of the Shenandoah. In early 1862 the unit reported in the Department of Northern Virginia and soon afterwards the Army of the Valley. In the early summer of 1862 the regiment joined the Army of Northern Virginia (ANV). It served in that Army until the summer of 1864. At that time the unit joined the Army of the Valley District, serving in that Army until the final month of 1864. The unit then rejoined the Army of Northern Virginia, serving in that Army for the remainder of the War. Throughout its career the 27th Virginia Infantry was brigaded with the 2nd, 4th, 5th, and 33rd Virginia Infantry regiments to constitute the famous "Stonewall" Brigade - the 1st Virginia Infantry Brigade. Following the severe losses sustained by this brigade at Spottsylvania Court House on May 12, 1664, all of the regiments of this brigade were consolidated to form one regimental sized organization.

As a whole, the men of the 1st Brigade were mostly of Scotch-Irish, German, Swedish, or English descent and typically from farming backgrounds due to the fertile Valley region they were from. Generally, they thought the idea of the "Union" was a good one but Virginia was their home. - Virginia, as the mother of this new nation, was their "country", not the United States. Consequently, the Valley men set out to defend their homes and homeland and cast their lots with the new Confederacy.

The 27th Virginia Infantry was engaged in over 60 skirmishes, battles, etc., in Virginia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia during its long career.

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For the Battle of First Manassas, July 21, 1861, General Johnston's army was sent to help Gen. Beauregard's Army of the Potomac (CSA) and General Thomas Jackson's 1st Brigade was poised to take it's place in history. It was after this major battle that the 1st Brigade would forever more be known as the "Stonewall Brigade". On Sunday morning, 21 July 1861, the 1st Virginia Infantry Brigade under General Jackson was ordered to move to the Confederate left at Henry House Hill. Not long after the brigade had deployed, Union forces were able to break the three Confederate brigades holding Matthew's Hill. The Confederates from Matthew's Hill began falling back and General Bee tried to rally these men near Jackson's 1st Brigade. As the Union troops steadily pushed forward to Henry House Hill, eleven federal guns were able to move into a position up the Hill and fire obliquely into Jackson's left flank. The left flank was anchored by the 33rd Virginia. The devastating fire of the federal guns began to have an effect on Jackson's line of infantry. Most of the men were new to battle and certainly none had experienced the magnitude of a major engagement. Nerves were stretched to breaking as the men lay in wait while the incessant shelling rained down upon them.

Colonel Cummings could see the Union troops getting close and felt that he could no longer hold his men at bay. Having endured enough of the bombardment, the 33rd Virginia broke from their position and dashed over the crest of Henry House Hill to attack the federal batteries. They succeeded in reaching the guns that were doing so much damage to Jackson's line and rendered them ineffective. Without immediate support (they had attacked on their own and without orders), however, the 33rd Virginia was forced back to the crest of the hill by Union infantry arriving to support the guns. But by then the tide had already begun to turn. As the Federals continued to push toward the crest of Henry House Hill, Jackson's whole 1st Brigade made a furious charge into the blue ranks and as additional Confederates came up on Jackson's left in support, the Union troops were repulsed.

It is the silencing of the federal guns by the 33rd Virginia and the charge of Jackson's 1st Brigade that is said to have turned the tide of battle. They were instrumental in giving the Confederacy it's victory at First Manassas and started the historic rout of the Union army. `"There stands Jackson like a stonewall" he shouted; "rally 'round the Virginians!". General Thomas "Stonewall" Jackson and his "Stonewall Brigade" had etched their names in history.

The Stonewall Brigade would be referred to by other nicknames as well: "Stonewall's Band", "Jackson's Foot Cavalry", "Men of Manassas", and the "Valley Men". They served with distinction throughout the entire war and despite some low points along the way, they continually lived up to their nickname as the Stonewall Brigade and commanded the respect of friend and foe alike. Jackson never hesitated to call on the brigade and always took comfort when his old brigade was leading the way. According to the paroles granted at Appomattox Court House, 9 April 1865, fewer than twenty-five officers and enlisted men of the 27th Virginia surrendered there. General Lee, in a show of respect, graciously asked the 210 men remaining in the old Stonewall Brigade to lead the final march of his Army of Northern Virginia. It is this last simple act by Lee that gives the true testimonial of the legacy left by the men of the Stonewall Brigade. The Valley men gladly accepted this last duty probably not for themselves but for their comrades left on the bloody battlefields of the war. Surely they also did it for their former leader who had made them what they were and who always considered them his own; General Thomas J. "Stonewall" Jackson. It must have been an amazing sight to see these troops, worn and battered from the war. They undoubtedly marched proudly down the road, their heads held high, their tattered battle flags flying over them - the men of the Stonewall Brigade. Behind them, the long gray lines of the former Army of Northern Virginia. The regiment reported 141 casualties at First Manassas, 57 at First Kernstown, and 4 of the 136 engaged at First Winchester. It lost 3 killed at Cedar Mountain, had 4 killed and 23 wounded at Second Manassas, and sustained 9 killed and 62 wounded at Chancellorsville. Of the 148 in action at Gettysburg about thirty percent were disabled.

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Captain Daniel M. Shriver Co. G

Company G, Shriver Greys: CAPT. D M SHRIVER The company was organized at Wheeling, Ohio County, Virginia, in May 1861 and proceeded by boat along the Ohio River to Harpers Ferry, Jefferson County, Virginia, on 17 May, 1861. The company arrived at Gauley Bridge, Fayette County, via Parkersburg, Wood County, and Charleston, Kanawha County, Virginia, and proceeded to Lewisburg, Greenbrier County, Virginia. The company arrived at Harpers Ferry, Jefferson County, via Harrisonburg and Winchester, Frederick County, Virginia, by 26 May, 1861. The company was mustered in state service at Harpers Ferry, Jefferson County, Virginia, on 26 May, 1861, and was assigned to the 27th Virginia Infantry, on 30 May 1861. The company was assigned to the 36th Virginia Battalion Cavalry, under the command of Major J W Sweeney, in May. 1863.

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