Frequently Asked Questions

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This page was last modified on 05/14/2010.

Who can join the PA 69th?

The 69th is a family oriented unit which does military and civilian impressions. Men, women and children of all ages are welcome to participate.

What are the requirements for membership in the PA 69th?

You must fill out an application, be approved by the 69th PA membership and pay your dues. Dues are currently $50/year for a full membership or $25/year for an associate membership. Full membership entitles a member to voting privileges and having event registration fees paid by the 69th.  Associate membership entitles a member affiliation with the 69th but with no voting privileges and events must be paid by the member.

What is the money from the dues used for?

The money is used for event registrations and to fund the operations of the unit.

Where and how often do you meet?

The annual meeting is usually held the end of January or beginning of February.  This is the main meeting in which members vote upon events for the year and positions. 

 

We also hold meetings the fourth Thursday of the month to discuss any business and issues that arise through out the year.  Currently, we hold those meeting at the

Willow Grove VFW Post #3612 at 7:00 PM.

 

 We hold brief meetings at events should business needs arise.  

How many events are there per year?

The unit participates in 15 -20 events a year.  The events consist of parades, living histories, ceremonies and battle re-enactments.  Typically, the battle events are Friday evening through Sunday afternoon and the other type of events are one day or less.

 

Participation in every event is not mandatory however there are some events which members are ‘highly’ encouraged to attend such as the ‘School of the Soldier’ program and memorial ceremonies. The ‘School of the Soldier’ program is a weekend long event at the beginning of the re-enactment season where the unit drills to ‘get the rust out’ before the season gets underway.  Also new members are trained in maneuvers and proper firing of the weapons.

How much does it cost to get equipped?

For a soldier, the cost for the uniform and accessories is about $1,000.  This would include a musket, leathers (cartridge box, belt, cap box, and scabbard), pants, shirt, coat, hat, shoes, canteen and socks.  Civilians, women and children need to be in period attire and the cost depends on the type of dress and/or clothes chosen.  A tent is need for shelter for over night events. The cost depends on the size and type of tent purchased. 

 

You can borrow equipment from others or from the unit’s inventory until you acquire your own. It is expect of a new member to have a full uniform within one year.

Where do I buy my clothing and equipment?

In re-enacting there are vendors called Sutlers. Sutlers sell a variety of military and civilian items including uniforms. They can be found at reenactment events, on the Internet and regular store fronts particularly at Gettysburg .

When can I participate in my first battle?

When you have a uniform (even if it is initially borrowed) and a musket and you have been trained to safely fire your weapon and maneuver in the ranks.