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Take the Shilling!

Two views of an original 1758 English Shilling typical of those offered to new recruits as "bounty money" to entice them to join the British Army. Soldiers received eight pence per day, so the shilling, at a value of 12 pence, was equal to one-and-a-half days wages.

In the 18th century, recruiting parties scoured the countryside looking for qualified recruits. A potential recruit had to be five feet, six inches tall, a protestant and between 17 and 25 years of age--though recruits of up to 35 years of age were accepted if they met the preceding criteria or had prior military experience.

Our recreated Archibald Campbell's Company of New York Provincials (Venturing Crew 1776) is always looking to recruit interested individuals as well. Potential recurits must be between the ages of 14 and 21 and have a passion for history and a desire to do a top-notch impression.

It is our intention that Venturing Crew 1776 be an active organization, not limited to just Scouting events. It exists to learn and to teach. Members are encouraged to take their Venturing Crew 1776 impressions outside of Scouting activities to teach and set an example of high standards in reenacting. Browse through our Photo Gallery for a look at the kinds of events that Venturing Crew 1776 participates in.

Venturing Crew 1776 currently has members from Lombard, Villa Park, Glen Ellyn, Lisle, and other western suburbs of Chicago. For more information on joining Venturing Crew 1776, please contact our advisor, Ernie Klapmeier.