The Vermont Civil War Hemlocks
Who we are!
Since 1963 the Vermont Civil War Hemlocks have been making the Civil War
come alive for people in the state of Vermont through meetings, demonstrations,
and participation in battle re-creations. Over the last thirty years, scores
of members and thousands of spectators have gained a deeper understanding
for, and greater appreciation of, Vermont's role in this tragic but fascinating
chapter of America's history.
The Hemlocks take their name from the sprig of evergreen worn by Vermont
troops as an identifying badge. They were founded during the one hundredth
anniversary of the Civil War by Andrew Fisher, a history teacher at Concord
High School. The early demonstrations involved three brass coehorn mortars
which had been cast at the Fairbanks Morse foundry in St. Johnsbury. Members
of the Hemlocks took part in some of the first Civil War reenactments to
take place in this country.
The Vermont Civil War Hemlocks is a nonprofit educational organization
incorporated in the State of Vermont. We have about fifty members, ranging
from high school students to retirees, representing many walks of life,
and coming from all over the state of Vermont. Like an original Vermont
regiment in the War, we are lucky to have a wide range of talent in our
ranks. This diversity helps us accomplish a lot and, at the same time,
helps us offer a lot to new members.
We emphasize authenticity, and it rewards us with a genuine experience
that can not be matched in other organizations. There is nothing like pulling
the lanyard on a cannon or being part of a crisp, sharp volley of muskets.
We invite you to review this informational packet, to come to one of our
meetings, or to attend one of our activities this year and learn more about
Vermont's best organization of Civil War enthusiasts.
Based in Vermont's Northeast Kingdom, the Hemlocks have chosen to portray
the Third Vermont, the only Vermont volunteer regiment to rendezvous and
train at Camp Baxter, just south of St. Johnsbury. The Third was part of
the First Vermont Brigade that, as part of the famous Sixth Corps, participated
in most of the heavy fighting involving the Army of the Potomac. The regiment
was originally armed with three-band Enfield rifled muskets, a practice
followed by the Hemlocks today.
In 1986, the Hemlocks expanded their military impressions by forming the
First Vermont Battery of Light Artillery. Central to this portrayal are
two three-inch wrought iron rifles (also known as ordnance rifles).
One of these cannons is an original rifled piece that served in the War.
The other is a full-scale reproduction (smooth bore). Production
of this iron-barreled rifled cannon was begun early in the war following
specifications developed by the U.S. Ordnance Department. It quickly won
favor with artillerists on both sides of the conflict for its accuracy
and ease of movement. The Hemlocks load and fire their smooth-bore copy
using a variation of the original drill, tempering authenticity with safety.
Living History
At community events across the state of Vermont, the Hemlocks present the
Civil War soldier as he dressed, drilled, marched, ate, lived, and slept.
Using authentically reproduced clothing, implements, tentage, and accoutrements,
we set up camp, spread out our blanket rolls, build a fire, eat hardtack
and drink coffee. We also drill: the manual of arms, marching and facing
movements, skirmish maneuvers, sometimes even bayonet practice. At some
events we do an artillery drill. Spectators are encouraged to wander through
camp and talk to the soldiers. Not only do we enjoy showing people how
Civil War soldiers looked and lived, we have many interesting conversations
with Civil War enthusiasts from all over.
Battle Re-creations
Every year, dozens of Civil War battle re-creations are held throughout
the United States. We usually pick one or two of the major events to travel
to as a group. Often we fall in with the Fifth New Hampshire, a well-known
outfit from our neighboring state. We pitch our tents and live for an entire
weekend using nothing but authentic Civil War food and materials. We participate
in scripted battle scenarios and sometimes in unscripted tactical exercises.
It is the best way to start to appreciate and understand the Civil War
soldier's experience.
Getting Started
If you are interested in the Civil War but are not sure you're quite ready
or do not have the time for full-scale living history, you will meet like-minded
people in our group. Although much of our activity is geared towards living
history, the monthly meetings offer opportunities for education and discussion
of various Civil War topics. We welcome all members with a desire to participate
in this hobby. If you are interested in Civil War living history, the Vermont
Civil War Hemlocks is the organization for you.
If you are concerned about the cost, fear not. It is not necessary to
obtain the entire uniform and equipage in order to get started. We have
a limited amount of equipment available for loan to new members, and many
of our present members are willing to lend articles of clothing that are
needed and available. You can start out with a small investment and gradually
acquire the articles you need over time.
Membership dues are $20.00 per year for individuals, $30.00 per year
for families. All funds raised by the Hemlocks go directly to activities
promoting the preservation of Vermont's Civil War heritage.
Monthly Meetings
The Hemlocks meet on the second Monday of every month at 7 p.m. in the
G.A.R. Room of the Hardwick Memorial Building. Local members of the veterans
organization met around the turn of the century in this beautiful old granite
structure that was built to honor their comrades' sacrifice. Each meeting
usually begins with a program of some sort and a speaker, videotape, or
other activity relating to the Civil War. The business meeting takes place
after the program. All meetings are open and the public is invited.
Please visit us at one of our meetings or activities this year. Better
yet, fill out the form on our membership page
and find out how the Hemlocks can bring the Civil War alive for you.
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