Step Into History: Join the 1st Virginia
Since 1975, the recreated 1st Virginia Regiment has been one of the most recognized Revolutionary War units in the country. We are seeking individuals who don’t just want to read about history, but who want to experience it firsthand.
Whether you seek to stand in the ranks as a Continental soldier or portray the families who "followed the army," there is a place for you in our camp.
Why Join?
Access to History
Travel to iconic historic sites and gain access to areas and experiences not generally open to the public.
Diverse Ranks
A Place for Everyone: From the individual soldier in the line to family members who support the camp as followers of the army, we are an organization that thrives on a diversity of participants. We offer a welcoming environment for both independent historians and multi-generational families to experience the 18th century together.
Unique Social Circle
Beyond the history, we are a social group made up of people from all walks of life. While we enjoy the public demonstrations, after the public leaves, we enjoy traveling to new sites, sharing meals, and laughing around a campfire.
Honoring Sacrifice
Gain a profound appreciation for the "common soldier" and their family by walking in their footsteps.
The Reality of the Ranks
The Reward
First-Day Access: We provide "Loaner Kits" (clothing and gear) so you can participate immediately.
Expert Guidance: Our veterans work closely with you to ensure your kit is authentic and period-correct.
Skill Building: Learn 18th-century trades, black powder safety, and woodcraft.
The Commitment
Meaningful Commitment: We take our portrayal seriously. You will learn the actual duties and drill of an 18th-century soldier—an experience that is deeply rewarding because it replaces casual observation with true, first-hand historical immersion.
High Standards: We are sticklers for 1770s accuracy. You'll be expected to follow our strict authenticity guidelines to achieve our historically accurate impression.
The Living Atmosphere: We portray history in the field, which means experiencing the natural environment. From morning mist on a battlefield to clear nights in camp, the weather provides a backdrop that no museum can replicate, adding a layer of realism to every event.
Your First Year Roadmap
Joining the 1st Virginia is a journey, not a transaction. We don't expect you to have everything on Day One; we provide a clear, step-by-step path to help you transition from a recruit to a fully equipped member of the regiment.
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Your journey begins by filling out our Inquiry Form. A member of our leadership will reach out to welcome you, answer your questions, and walk you through the membership process.
2026 Annual Dues: $40 for an Individual / $45 for a Family.
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Once you’ve joined, we get you into the field. We provide loaner clothing and equipment from our unit locker so you can attend your first events, meet the group, and experience 18th-century life firsthand without any major initial investment.
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After you’ve found your place in the unit, we provide a 12-Month Roadmap (available in our password-protected Member Portal). This guide helps you systematically acquire your own authentic kit, while our experienced members mentor you to ensure every piece is period-correct for the 1st Virginia.
Who We Portray
A Musician
The heartbeat of the regiment. Musicians provided signals on the battlefield and the cadence for the march. We welcome experienced players and those willing to learn the traditional tunes of the 18th century.
Focus: Period music, signal calls, and military pageantry.
An Infantry Soldier
The backbone of the Continental Army. As a soldier in the line, you will learn General von Steuben’s Manual Exercise and the tactical movements used on the battlefields of the Revolution.
Focus: Discipline, teamwork, and the "Liberty or Death" spirit.
A Civilian
The lifeblood of the camp. Portray the men, women, and children who traveled with the army, providing essential trades, medical support, and domestic skills that kept the soldiers in the field.
Focus: Living history, traditional trades, and domestic camp life.
An Artillerist
The heavy hitters. We field a full-scale artillery piece to demonstrate the power of 18th-century cannons and the precision of gunnery.
Focus: Technical skill, heavy ordnance, and crew coordination.
Join the Regiment
The First Virginia Regiment is a 501(c)(3) non-profit educational organization dedicated to bringing the history of the American Revolution to life. Membership is open to anyone who shares our passion for honoring and learning about the soldiers and families who served with the Continental Line.
Through authentic 18th-century clothing, military drill, period camp life, and educational demonstrations, our members experience history firsthand. While many of our members portray the frontline soldiers of the regiment, our unit also includes women and children who recreate the vital roles of the civilian camp followers who supported the Continental Army.
Ready to step into history? Please fill out the inquiry form below to get in touch with our recruiting team. We look forward to welcoming you to the ranks!
Event Note: Children under the age of 16 are warmly welcomed, but must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian at all regiment events and activities.
