I've been reenacting for over 10 years now and rarely get paid. It
depends on the site and the era. We used to get more stipends for
attending events but those are fewer now that the economy sucks.
Personally, I think reenactors should at least get gas money and meals
as we are expected to bring a lot of equipment, interact with the
public, and do demos. US National Parks usually provide powder and
cartridges for infantry and artillery. I think my navy unit usually
gets a fee for bringing out their canon and sometimes for bringing out
their jollyboat as well.

For the large Civil War events, reenactors are expected to pay to
attend. But that is the price to "play" on national battle sites. It
also pays for port-a-johns, hay, event logistics, and upkeep of the
parks.

The best thing you can do is reach out to local reenactors and talk to
them. Ask them what their needs are and what they require. Depending
on the era, someone who is properly kitted out in a period uniform
with period equipment has spent around $2000 or more. Women typically
don't need to spend as much since muskets are a large part of cost of
reenacting but we can easily spend that much if we want to. People who
spend less typically have made a large part of their kits to save on
cost and that takes time. While you can custom order outfits from most
time periods these days, if you do it right, you have to get those
outfits tailored to you. You also have to spend time mending them and
cleaning them and keeping them in good condition. Muskets have to be
cleaned and stored properly after each event. Cookware has to be
seasoned and put away correctly. Tents have to be dried out and put
away. All of this takes time and effort even if you are trying to
reenact on the cheap. (A caveat, there are also a lot of crappy
reenactors out there as well. Be picky. If people are "farby" and wear
"costumes" instead of period correct clothing or just want to play
soldier instead of interact intelligently with the public, don't ask
them back.

So anyway, what I'm trying to say is don't not pay reenactors just
because many times, we don't get paid and sometimes we have to pay to
attend events. Treat them as professional interpreters and work with
them to come up with a budget. Also work with your community to see if
you can get other amenities for your event as donations to help your
budget. Reenactors are very resourceful and have community
connections. They are also usually dedicated to history and willing to
help out historic sites. Definitely provide them meals and
port-a-johns or make sure they have access to bathroom facilities and
a spicket with potable water. Hopefully by working together, you can
grow your event and get both more reenactors and more public to
attend. Win for everyone!

Deb Fuller

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