Considerations
Honoring suspension of disbelief
When participatory to living history or event reenactment where you attend as your impression, or what some refer to as "dressing out" there are some general considerations which will be appreciated by all including the spectators (as most are likely be armed with cameras).
Wait! Don't despair. Not everyone is a stitch counter but one has to start somewhere. There are ways to suspend disbelief and retain comfort and convenience- it's all a matter of degree.
The first and most basic approach to impressions and camping at an event starts with 'Out of Sight, Out of Mind'. If you can't see it, it's not there. The cooler in your tent that has a burlap bag thrown over it doesn't exist, and neither does the blow-up mattress when you cover it in a lovely period style quilt.
Shelter
No sense in denying the attraction of heat or AC or even a comfortable bed when attending an event. It can be easier to convince your lesser enthusiastic friends and family to join you if they are able to stay warm, take a shower or just return to the 21st century when they want. Some choose to take an RV or take a room for the night or two. It can be less expensive to start with as acquiring a canvas tent may be one of those kit items you would rather wait on while getting some of the "Must Haves".
Food and Beverage
It's very easy to keep snacks on your person, such as apples, pears, nuts or other seasonal fruits and vegetables found in the supermarket. There are usually vendors on site to provide some vittles and libations. Avoid bringing plastic and brightly colored items back to camp. If you don't have a canteen, a corked wine bottle (stripped of labels) is good for carrying water or other liquids in to be consumed in public. Tin cups are the most versatile as you can also use it over the fire if needed (be watchful, some soldered joins can melt).
Sight
The short-list of things to keep out of sight are:
- Plastic of all varieties
- Modern packaging ( beverages in cans, zip lock bags,Styrofoam)
- Electronics
- Modern clothing and accessories ( there were no wrist watches or hair elastics in the 1860s)
As for modern glasses, most prescriptions can be ordered fairly inexpensively online. Go to your local eyeglass shop and ask for measurements and written prescription. Progressive or bifocals may be tricky but single strength is easily attained.
Sounds
The greatest offense is the mobile phone. The expectation that one might leave it behind is unrealistic for some and impossible for most. This is also quite easily handled. If possible, don't carry it on your person, but leave it in the car or tent.
If you must have your phone with you, follow this courtesy:
- Turn off the ring tone, place it on silent and place your phone on vibrate whenever you are on site, in camp or on the field.
- Make others aware you should be contacted by sms, text or arranged time so that you can get your phone out of sight when you need to use it.
- Put it in a cloth bag or handkerchief so you can take it out covertly.
- Make calls in your tent or away from other reenactors.
Really, as with any modern or electric item, be sure it can not be seen or heard.
Remember, most stores carry paper bags, ask for paper instead of plastic when getting groceries for your next event.
Transport
Unless you have a wagon, cart or horse, you will be walking. A lot usually. So get a good idea of the landscape when you park your car and be familiar with the comfort level you can expect from your footwear.