It's always seemed to me that the SCA was there "first," as an
ongoing amateur reenactment organization. At least first in the US.
Do you know what influence it's had on the formation of other
reenactment groups, such as American Civil War, and American
Revolution?
I believe the Markland Medieval Mercenary Militia was formed in
1966 to reenact the battle of Hastings (1066). They began at the
university of Maryland and eventually they and the SCA became
acquainted. Markland has been going as a separate organization since
it began.
Likewise, American Civil War reenactment probably got popular
for its centennial, in the 1960s. I had heard that veterans and
enthusiasts got together before then.
There are some "Revolutionary War" uniforms in collections that
were made later for commemorations, perhaps 1876? While not
necessarily reenactments, people were dressing up.
I think the SCA influenced dressing up (and costume
competitions) at science fiction and fantasy conventions, and also
Live Action Role Playing (LARP). But the reenactment of American
events grew on their own.
Many of these events are held on or near property where the
actual events occurred, and there is usually 21stC public visiting.
This encouraged the idea of events as educational.
Most SCA events are private - halls, parks and school property
is rented for their use.
American Revolution or Civil War groups will have private
events, and generally each unit will have a meeting or party once or
twice a year.
My impression is that American Revolution or Civil War
reenactment came to the west coast later, so the SCA was first in
that area. But in the east it was already going on.
-Carol
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