Frequently Asked Questions
How much will this cost?
To be properly kitted out the cost is approximately $2500-$3500 (CDN). We do strive for period correctness and can provide many options to source the items you will need.
Do not be overwhelmed by the large cost. We have loaner items and muskets to help new recruits with the initial expense and to ease into the hobby.
Below are some examples of items that you should accumulate. Prices vary based on the quality of the item and the amount of material required..
Redcoat = $650 - $850
Brown Bess Flintlock Musket + Bayonet = $750 - $1300
Cartridge box and belts = $250
Shako head piece = $150 - $200
Linen shirt = $100 - $125
Pants = $100- $150
Gaitors = $45
Brogan boots = $125
Wedge tent = $ 400
There is also a small annual fee of $25 for all members that covers our administration costs and insurance for our season.
Do not be overwhelmed by the large cost. We have loaner items and muskets to help new recruits with the initial expense and to ease into the hobby.
Below are some examples of items that you should accumulate. Prices vary based on the quality of the item and the amount of material required..
Redcoat = $650 - $850
Brown Bess Flintlock Musket + Bayonet = $750 - $1300
Cartridge box and belts = $250
Shako head piece = $150 - $200
Linen shirt = $100 - $125
Pants = $100- $150
Gaitors = $45
Brogan boots = $125
Wedge tent = $ 400
There is also a small annual fee of $25 for all members that covers our administration costs and insurance for our season.
What is the time commitment going to be?
Each calendar year we participate in about 12 weekend events. Ideally we would like to see members attend at least 3 plus attend our Annual General Meeting. Additionally, we encourage participation in fundraising events in uniform plus a drill practice, if scheduled, to fine-tune movement and skills.
We understand that life is busy and that it is unrealistic to assume you can attend everything scheduled. You will find that we love what we do and endeavour to make each weekend as much fun as possible.
We understand that life is busy and that it is unrealistic to assume you can attend everything scheduled. You will find that we love what we do and endeavour to make each weekend as much fun as possible.
How do I get my uniform and kit?
We have developed a network of suppliers and we will help putting you in touch with these businesses balancing affordable cost with historical accuracy.
I'm not located near Detroit or Hamilton, can I still join?
Yes! While it is ideal to be able to easily drive to join our companies for events, drills and meetings, we do have membership as far away as Ottawa and Winnipeg.
How hard is it to learn to be a British soldier? Should I have a military background? Do I need to be a historian?
There is no way around it; you will have to learn the British military drill for the period. Don’t panic, we drill through the off season, our NCO’s give the recruits extra time and tutoring at events and we will make sure that you are safe and comfortable before going onto the battlefield at an event. We are proud of the fact that we have some Canadian Armed Forces regulars in our ranks but there is no need or advantage to having a military background (our drill and timing is so different, military training might even be a disadvantage!)
A love of history helps but an in depth knowledge of the history is not required. Our membership comes from a variety of backgrounds, everything from University Professors, Salesmen, Engineers, Soldiers to Truck Drivers. Some of our membership stick to the life in the camp and the tacticals while others get quite involved interacting with the public and interpreting the history of the period and the conflict. This is up to you and your level of comfort.
A love of history helps but an in depth knowledge of the history is not required. Our membership comes from a variety of backgrounds, everything from University Professors, Salesmen, Engineers, Soldiers to Truck Drivers. Some of our membership stick to the life in the camp and the tacticals while others get quite involved interacting with the public and interpreting the history of the period and the conflict. This is up to you and your level of comfort.
Do I get to wear a red coat and fire a gun?
Yes! The 41st Regiment of Foot MLHG is a re-created unit of British Army regulars. We portray a line company; that is we are in the middle of the heavy fighting. With our careful training and qualification, you will be taught to handle a flintlock musket safely (never call it a gun or rifle!) and fire with black powder cartridges.
Do I need special training or a license? (CDN)
Canadian law says that on antique (or antique reproduction) flint-lock firearms, no standard FAC (Firearms Acquisition Certificate... which is being phased out in favour of the Possession and Acquisition License) is required. Training you on the use and safety of your flintlock (Brown Bess) will be done by the 41st Regiment during drill practice and, if possible, at some events.
Is the 41st Regiment a historically "real" group or is it just one for reenacting?
Definitely YES! The original 41st Regiment of Foot played a critical role in the history and defence of Canada. The 41st made up the majority of the British regulars who were in Canada at the outbreak of hostilities in 1812. The 41st participated in famous battles such as Detroit, Queenston Heights, Lundy’s Lane and Fort Erie. The 41st Regiment won more battle honours in the war (Detroit, Queenstown, Miami and Niagara) than any other British regiment. We have a page devoted to the early history of the unit which you can view in the “history” section of our website.
I'm not really sure if I want to join up and would like more information. What's my best way to learn more?
Contact us! We can meet with you to further discuss our group and the hobby in general. We would be happy to show you a flintlock musket, the uniform and some of the kit and accoutrements. We also would be happy to invite you to join us at one of our winter drills, one of our garrison events (at Fort George, Fort Malden or Fort Erie) or at an event. There are many options to explore and we love to talk about our hobby!
Visit our Contact page for more information and to get in touch.
Visit our Contact page for more information and to get in touch.
I'm a female and I'd love to join, but I want to be in the field as a soldier. Is this possible?
As as a group we strive for historical accuracy. During the war of 1812 no women served as soldiers in the British army. For females that would like to join our impression in the British infantry uniform of the time period you are most welcome with the expectation that you endeavour to provide a historical impression of that of a male soldier. Another option for women is to portray the impression of a camp follower and accompany us to events. Either way, we hope you will reach out for a conversation as you consider joining our group.
Can my family attend events?
Yes! We have families that regularly attend events. Children are as a part of an encampment as the adults! It's a great "community" for families to share and enjoy.
I do not think my family would be interested in this. can I join as an individual?
Yes! Some of our members go to events as families or couples but many will attend as only soldiers.
What happens at a weekend event?
Normally we arrive at the site on Friday evening and set up our tent line. Once camp is set up, we will change to period clothing and strive to live “in period” for the remainder of the weekend.
Some meals maybe provided by the hosted site. Alternatively, we are fortunate to have several individuals that excel at period cooking over an open fire. For those that would like to participate in the weekend meal plan, they must notify us in advance and contribute a small cash amount to cover the cost of groceries.
A typical weekend starts Saturday morning with inspection and safety followed by a morning drill (sometimes both company and battalion). Two battle re-enactments can be expected which could take place in the morning afternoon or evening. Sunday is usually the same structure as the Saturday.
In between scheduled events there is free time to catch up with friends, make new friends, talk to the public and shopping in the merchant sutlers street,
Some meals maybe provided by the hosted site. Alternatively, we are fortunate to have several individuals that excel at period cooking over an open fire. For those that would like to participate in the weekend meal plan, they must notify us in advance and contribute a small cash amount to cover the cost of groceries.
A typical weekend starts Saturday morning with inspection and safety followed by a morning drill (sometimes both company and battalion). Two battle re-enactments can be expected which could take place in the morning afternoon or evening. Sunday is usually the same structure as the Saturday.
In between scheduled events there is free time to catch up with friends, make new friends, talk to the public and shopping in the merchant sutlers street,
How much do we get paid for this?
There is no pay. This is a hobby. Think of it as camping for a weekend at a historical site with some battles thrown in for an activity. On occasion a site may offer an allowance for travel or provide some black powder, but don’t count on it!
How do I obtain rank?
Rank is earned through participation, knowledge and leadership.
I don't see my question on this FAQ! Where can I get the information?
Contact us! Email or call and we will happy to answer any questions or set up a meeting. Visit our Contact page for more information.
WHAT WILL I WEAR?
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Private soldiers were issued their basic uniform and kit. The regimental red coat was made of heavy wool. Different regiments were distinguished by the colour of the ‘facings’ on the cuffs and the collars. A further distinguishing feature was the shape and design of the Regimental lace. In the case of the 41st Regiment, the facings at this time were red, and the lacings were in the "Jew's Harp" bastion loop design. The lace itself for all private soldiers and junior NCOs was a half-inch white tape with a black line or worm in the middle. What a private was issued dose change from year to year during the war. Upon the onset of the war the uniform that was issued consisted of, 1 stovepipe shako, 1 regimental tunic (red coat), 1 leather neck stock, 2 -4 white linen shirts with some exceptions, 2 white Russian hem trousers, wool socks, 1 pair of leather low-quartered boots, 1 pair of buckle shoes (with or without buckles), I pair of half gaiters, 1 white woolen barracks coat, 1 regimental bonnet de police, 1 greatcoat issued seasonally to 2 privates. When on parade a private soldier would be fully dressed along with, 1 India pattern brown bess musket, 1 regimental belt plate, 1 whitened buff leather bayonet cross belt, 1 bayonet with scabbard, 1 whitened buff leather cartouche cross belt, 1 cartouche box 1804 pattern, 1 pick and whisk. When on campaign there was also, 1 linen haversack, 1 oak canteen, 1 painted knapsack, 1 white wool blanket. On top of all the necessaries a private would also be responsible to carry all his personal effects, and up to 1 week’s worth of food rations.
By 1813-14 the uniform dress orders change. The head dress has updated to the Belgic shako, and the trousers are made of grey wool along with the gaiters. The rest of the uniform will stay the same till the end of the war. |
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The uniform of a sergeant of the 41st was slightly different to the common soldier. The regiment tunic of a sergeant was of higher quality wool and was trimmed with an all white lace compared to the black worm of the private’s tunic. A set of chevrons are added to the right sleeve of all issued coats. Also issued is a sash with the regimental facing in the center; in the case of the 41st it is of white due to the fact of the facing being red. Sergeants also wore a pair of white gloves on parade. In addition to the barracks coat there was a waist coat of white wool issued. At the beginning of the war a sergeant of a battalion company was issued with a pike and sword by 1814 a more common site, would have been a musket, bayonet, and cartouche box, then the pike. The shako, trousers and gaiters would change with the update in the regulations, the same as a private.
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To be wealthy enough during this conflict and the Napoleonic wars meant that you could afford the most fetching fashion statement, a commission in the British army. Officer’s uniform would be presumably issued to him as per today; but you would be mistaken. It would be up to the individual officer to perches his own uniform and life style. Gentlemen would have a personal tailor produce his regimental tunic by following the standing regulations issued by the army. These regulations changed in 1813; thus resulting in 2 very distinctive uniforms patterns being worn in this theater of war. The early war uniform of a 41st officer consisted of a double breasted tunic with long tails. The lace on the tunic was silver with a black worm in the center, similar to the enlisted men’s tunics, forming bastion loops on the breasts, collars, pockets and cuffs. Silver epaulets are added to the shoulders distinguishing his rank, from one as a junior officer to 2 for a senior officer. Also a white buff leather sword belt with a silver gilt cross belt plate, baring the regimental numbers inside a starburst. The rest of the clothing would consist of, multiple Head dressings like a top had, chapeau bra, beaver felt stovepipe shako, multiple pairs of gloves verging in colors and shades, a verge fusee pocket watch with a watch fob, a cravat of black silk for day wear and white silk for evening and formal dress, shirts with ruffles for each day of the week in fine linen, white silk or wool waistcoat, cream pantaloons and breaches, stockings, hessian boots, and dress pumps. With the new regulation the regimental tunic changes along with the head dress and trousers. The tunic tails are shortened, the lace is changed to gold and sewn into square loops, the head dress is changed to the fur felt belgic shako, the pants are changed to grey trousers to fit over the boots. The rest of the uniform remains the same as the early war uniform.
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