World War I Reenactments

Imagine living in a sand bag and barbwire lined muddy trench, without a proper bed or shower for days. Sleep is hard to come by because you never know when the enemy might attack. If this sounds like something you would like to do, then World War I Reenactments are perfect for you. The Great War Association has called World War I reenacting “the reenactor’s reenactment!”

World War I Reenactments hope to honor those who fought in the Great War. World War I took place in 1914-1918. Since the war was fought outside the US, many Americans do not have a full understanding of the hardship and sacrifice of the war. European reenactors feel a stronger connection with the war since it was fought in their home countries.

One of the largest US World War I Reenactments group is the Great War Association. They participate in special events around the country, and also own the Caesar Krauss Great War Memorial Site near Newville, PA. Caesar Krauss was a World War I veteran, whose grandson brought the land as well as started the society as a “lasting tribute to my Granddad and his comrades as well to his allies and adversaries.” On this site they have recreated the Western Front, complete with a No Man’s Land. The Great War Association has 33 units that participate with 350 members.

Most reenactments take place on battlefields like the one on the Caesar Krauss Great War Memorial Site. These battlefields are authentic as possible, complete with trenches, bunkers, and barbed wire. Reenactors live just as the real soldiers did. They do not sleep in beds or take showers, but instead live in the trenches. The conditions are extremely harsh, since the reenactors try to make the experience as authentic as possible. Many of these reenactments are not open to the public in order to keep the event as serious and authentic as possible.

Word War I reenactors also do living history events which are open to the public. In these events they set up an Army camp so the public can see what conditions were like for soldiers. They show how and what soldiers cooked, what kind of equipment they used and weapons instruction. These events are easier to put on since a large area of land is not needed.

One of the most important steps in getting started is choosing which side you want to participate on. This will determine what uniform and supplies to purchase. There are very particular standards for each uniform, so make sure you research or check with someone in your group before you purchase anything! World War II reenactors are often criticized for portraying Nazi German, but groups that represent the Nazis make it clear that they are leaving politics out of it and reenacting for historic purposes only.

If you want a hardcore reenactment, then try World War I reenacting. Attend a reenactment or contact a group online. These reenactments are a great way to honor your ancestors, learn more about history, and have an adventurous hobby!