Profile: Jeff Thornton, Civil War Reenactor
July 15, 2009 at 4:44 pm by Candace Wheeler in Profile
For over 20 years, Civil War reenactor Jeff Thornton has taken the term history buff to the next level. Serving as a “sergeant” who helps to train new recruits, Thornton engages in faux battles and teaches students about the Civil War.
How did you get involved in reenacting?
Back in like 1989, my stepdad had a friend that had been reenacting. I was about 12 years old then. By the time I got old enough to fight, which is 16, I joined a unit.
What kind of training do you have to go through?
Usually it’s on-the-spot training. Before we put someone out on the field, we make sure they know all of the safety stuff. After they learn that, we put them on the field — but since they’re new, we will usually surround them with veterans during the battle to guide them.
How much time do you devote to reenacting?
I go to an event at least once a month, but since I’ve started helping with the classes I read up on it about two to three hours a night. If someone wanted to, though, there is something going on just about every weekend, whether it’s at Kennesaw Mountain or national events like Gettysburg.
Where do you get the uniforms from?
There are a lot of different places to get uniforms. There’s a company called Suttler’s and they basically travel to different reenactment sites and sell uniforms. Sometimes people make the clothes. I have some things my mom made from when she was reenacting.
How much does all of this cost?
A full basic uniform usually costs about $1,000 and that’s without the black powder we use for ammunition or anything extra. It can be expensive.
What position do you hold?
I’m a sergeant, and basically my job is to make sure people are doing what they’re supposed to be doing. In battles, I make sure everyone is being safe. I’m also involved in training and making sure people are marching correctly.
What are people’s reactions to you being a reenactor?
People always ask me what side I fight on, I guess to see if I’m a redneck. I tell them I fight on both sides; I’m just interested in preserving history and showing people what life was really like for soldiers during that time period.
What do you think is the biggest misconception people have of Civil War reenactors?
That we’re all rednecks who are trying to re-fight the war, which isn’t true. It’s a hobby just like any other hobby.
What are some of the most notable events to attend?
One of the biggest ones we put on is in Resaca, Ga., and we have about 1,100 to 5,100 reenactors come out. We also do an event at Kennesaw Mountain, which is what we call a “living history” because they won’t let us do battle reenactments up there. We basically camp on the grounds so people can observe soldiers’ lives from that time period.
Where can people go to learn more?
We have a site www.georgiadivision.org, which lists events, meeting times and has photos from reenactment battles.
(Photo by Joeff Davis)
Leave a Reply