Coldstream Guards FAQ Page

Here are the answers to a few of the most frequently asked questions
about the Coldstream Guards Living History Museum.

Who are you guys?

We're a group of men and women from many walks of life who share an interest in bringing history to life. As members of the Coldstream Guards Living History Museum, we work to accomplish our purpose: to keep alive the life and times of the soldiers who served England over the long history of the Coldstream Guards. To that end, we recreate the uniform, weapons, kit that were used by the Regiment over the last 350 years. It is the goal of the museum to be able to present as many time periods as possible.

What time periods do you represent?

The Grenadier Company, Brigade of Guards in America, commemorates the service of British soldiers during the American Revolution. Brigade of Guards History during the Other time periods represented are Military Observers to the American Civil War, Sudan, 1879 and the 20^th Century. We are very active in WWII where we portray 5^th Battalion which was lorried infantry in Northwest Europe and 2^nd Battalion in Italy. Coldstream Guards History

What do you do?

We portray the military life and customs of the period in all its aspects. Far from being the mindless automaton represented in popular mythology, the British soldier was a formidable adversary who won the vast majority of the battles. We present "living history" demonstrations consisting of field tactics, drill, and camp life. We present lectures and talks to schools, as well as interested civic and fraternal groups. We travel to take part in re-enactments of Revolutionary War battles with other members of the N.W.T.A.and WWII battles with other members of the 20^th Century Tacticle Studies Group. All our members are volunteers, and bear the cost of procuring their own uniforms, equipment, and travel.

Where do you get your uniforms and equipment?

There are many sources for uniform. In earlier time periods, the uniforms but be custom tailored, in later times, members can obtain uniforms and kit from a number of suppliers. Our uniforms and equipment are the products of years of research, and we take great pride in our accuracy. Several British military museums were impressed enough by our work that they have asked for uniforms and equipment for display purposes. Only accurate materials are used - wool, linen, brass, pewter, leather, steel, wood, etc., and we use period tailoring and assembly. The unit is responsible for the production of equipment items unique to the Guards. There are numerous commercial sources for a great deal of the equipment, but we highly recommend that new recruits consult with current members before they purchase any items. Current members are willing to assist the new recruit with the gathering of the necessary items. Uniform & Kit For WWII Guardsman

How much does it cost?

Unfortunately, it is not a cheap hobby. The basic required uniform, arms, and equipment can run close to US $1500.00 for those who portray earlier time periods. For those who are interested in WWII, the cost runs around $1,000 which includes everything a member would need to portray a WWII Guardsman. Purchasing used or second-hand uniforms and equipment can significantly reduce costs. The good news is that much of the initial investment can last a lifetime and is not charge all at one time. Travel expenses are deferred to a great deal by car-pooling to events and staying in encampments.

Why are you depicting a British unit? Aren't you patriotic?

The N.W.T.A. is made up of units representing all the nations that took part in the American War for Independence. In order to tell the entire story of the times, all sides must be represented. By depicting the British soldier as he was - tough, capable, and courageous, we educate the public, debunking many inaccurate ideas about the British that have been handed down for generations. For other time periods, England is an important allie. The “Tommy” of WWII saw two years more service fighting the Nazis than the same US army G.I. Our job is to remember those men who gave so much to defeat the Nazis and thus allow us to live in freedom.

Who can join?

In order to take the field as a member of the Coldstream Guards Living History Museum, you must be a male of at least seventeen years of age, and physically able to handle the weapons. Musicians can apply for membership at the age of fourteen, but require parental permission. Children may participate as long as their parent(s) or legal guardian's) is an active member of the museum. Wives and/or girlfriends are encouraged to participate. There is no upper age limit.

What about the girlfriend or wife and kids, what can they do?

The armies of 18^th Century had a large number of women and children attached. As living history is definitely a family oriented hobby, wives, children, and sweethearts of our modern day soldiers can take part by depicting their 18th century counterparts. They portray women and children of the period, in all of the various roles that women and children held. They enact their roles as officer's ladies, wives of soldiers, or camp followers. The ladies and wives also do many of the crafts and daily chores that would have been done in the camp. Without the women, the 18th century armies would have had a more difficult time than they did; women were an integral part of armies of the period. Clothing patterns, which observe the same standard of accuracy as the menus, are available.

For later periods, family life was no less important. In WWII, women joined the ATS and served in uniform doing many different jobs. Any job a woman can do allowed a man go to the front and fight. They were drivers, mechanics, gunners in anti-aircraft batteries, nurses, clerks and performed many other tasks. Our ladies are encouraged to find a job they are interested in and want to perform. In living history events, we portray life in the camps of England in 1943. On weekends, families would come and visit their husbands.

My child is young, can he or she still come?

Young children are welcome in all our camps. Historic reenacting is a great way for children to learn history by living the time period. It is not unusual to see children of all ages running around the 18^th Century camp. Later time periods are only restrictive when we are operating on an active US Military Base. On those occasions, we fall under military law and security. On those occasions, we only allow members over the age of 17 (with parent participation) or 18.

How do I join?

Check out How to Join the Coldstream Guards for members names and numbers that you can contact.

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