A Call For Recruits

"Young gentlemen of Mathematical genius, who are ac­quainted with the principles of Geometry, and who have a taste for drawing, would be the most proper assistants for a Geographer. Such, in a few days practice, may be made expert surveyors."

-Robert Erskine, F.R.S., Geographer to the Army of the United States

The Geographer's Department is a military living history unit of the Brigade of the American Revolution, and is seeking recruits to serve during the 2007 reenacting season and beyond.

Individuals who are new to the hobby, transplanted from another time period (like French & Indian War, War of 1812, Civil War), or veteran Rev War reenactors looking for a change of pace are welcome to contact us.

A variety of living history impressions are possible within the unit, including:

• Assistant Geographer- military officer (captain or lieutenant)

• Civilian Surveyor- contracted to work for the Department

• Chainman/Flagman- survey crew member...can be a civilian or an enlisted soldier

• Guard- provides protective escort for survey parties...enlisted soldier

• Batman or Servant- assists the staff with camp duties...can be a civilian or an enlisted soldier

The Geographer's Department provides a great change for current reenactors who have tired of "burning powder", or who are seeking more interaction with the public at events. Folks who join our unit and are still interested in fielding with a combat unit during battles are encouraged to do so, and the unit leadership can help you find a unit to "fall in" with.

Typical activities performed by the Geographer's Department at events include:

• Surveying and mapping of the historic site and, if sight lines are long enough, the general vicinity of the area. This involves dispatching a survey crew, which, in the best situation, consists of 7 men: 1 surveyor, 2 chain-bearers, 3 flag men, 1 person to carry instruments.

• Preparing maps based on the information gathered by the survey party. These maps are produced using authentic materials and techniques.

• Public Interaction describing the above processes and how surveying and mapping fit into tactical and strategic operations during the Revolutionary War.

While technically not Engineers, the Geographer's Department is occasionally called upon to interpret the duties of Military Engineers at events. These activities include:

• Mapping of fortifications

• Supervising and staffing of fatigue parties to gather woodland materials for siege works

• Constructing siege works and components, including chevaux de frise, fascines, gabions, redoubts, and other light fortifications

Interested in Learning More? Please enter your email address below and follow the instructions. A unit representative will be in touch within 72 hours.