Civil War Fineries - A Visit to the Sutlers at the Brooksville Raid Civil War Reenactment
The Brooksville Raid Civil War Reenactment is taking place this weekend at the Sand Hill Scout Reservation off SR 50. If you didn't go yesterday, you'll have another chance today! And also see my previous post about the Brooksville Raid Reenactment.
Yesterday, mild temperatures brought out big crowds of spectators to walk among the soldier camps, watch the battle as it unfolded across the huge "battlefield" at the Sand Hill Scout Reservation, and browse the sutler tents.
Sutlers, merchants to the army, are offering all kind of Civil War era goods from army boots, soldier hats, and things for daily life such as soaps made from lye, dishes, guns, and more.
Among the finer things, one can find handmade ladies apparel, hats, fans, purses.
One interesting article that I found was an original "chatelaine" which is a decorative clasp that was worn at the waist by the lady of the house with a series of chains suspended from it.
Each chain is mounted with a useful household item that would be used throughout the day. This particular one has scissors, thimble and a tiny notepad and pencil.
While for many the main focus of the reenactment is the battle between the Union and Confederate armies, browsing through the sutlers provides a different perspective of a time long past and an interesting glimpse into the life of the people that lived in those times.
Take a little stroll with me and discover some of the goods you might have wanted to buy had you lived in those times!
Civil War Fineries - A Visit to the Sutlers at the Brooksville Raid Civil War Reenactment
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