General Guidelines
Our Goal and Purpose
The goal of this organization is to most accurately portray Officers and Enlisted men of the Medical Corps of the U.S. Army during the mid-19th Century. To honor the efforts of our ancestors and their comrades in the War Between the States, we should strive to act, look and behave in a manner which was common to them. To attain this we must set out sights, expectations and goals higher than is normally perceived today.
We will bring together like-minded reenactors who want their experiences in the field to be the most authentic and accurate possible (i.e. "within their means"). In order to achieve this, there will be a higher standard of guidelines in the "Mess" which must be met and followed by all participants.
Guidelines for the medical department structure will be in compliance with the "U.S. Army Regulations, 1861," and "U.S. Army Medical Department Regulations, 1861".
Standards
The authenticity standards for "What a Medical Mess" will be stricter than the majority of the other medical impressions. We ask that, individuals already have their kit (the very minimum would be their uniform). We furthermore ask that your uniform be constructed of period sewing techniques with the correct type of cloth and material.
Tents to be used will vary according to the time period being portrayed and, type of event (i.e. garrison, etc.). We will decide prior to the event as to the type of tentage to be used. Or, contact the Chief Medical Officer to inquire further.
21st Century items are prohibited (i.e. coolers, sleeping bags, camp furniture, lanterns, wristwatches, modern eye glasses, etc.). Exceptions will be medical items (i.e. inhaler, insulin, glucometers, etc.). If you're not sure, contact the Chief Medical Officer.
Individuals who have complaints about the conduct of others will bring this to the attention of the Chief Medical Officer.
For any individual to participate with "What a Medical Mess", they must abide by our guidelines. If an individual refuses to comply with the guidelines, they will be removed from the medical department by orders of the Chief Medical Officer.
Dues
As of now, there are no dues. If a fee is required for registration to an event, it will be the responsibility of the individual member to cover such costs (including rations, etc.).
Membership
For those who wish to join the "Mess", they can contact the Chief Medical Officer via the website of the request. If the guidelines are met, they will be approved for acceptance. This can be done on an individual or unit basis. Still, it is not necessary to be a member of the "Mess" to participate with our group at events.
The "Mess" is mainly focused on Kentucky's involvement in the American Civil War, and the adjoining states (Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Tennessee and, West Virginia). Now, that does not mean that one cannot join if they reside a distance from Kentucky. We are striving to bring back a reputable impression, here in Kentucky and adjoining states . . by "doing it right".
Events
We primarily fall in under the Western Federal Blues. The events will be determined by the Western Federal Blues. Here is the WFB's information regarding events:
"Future events will be determined by consensus of the participants while at a decided event in the field. We will actively participate in at least two events per year. One will be on the "national" level while the other will be on a "regional" level. Other events may be considered if those who participate with the W.F.B. are interested."
However, we do have the choice of attending other events, outside of the Western Federal Blues. These will also be determined by the consensus of the active participating members of the "Mess".
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