79th New York Highlanders Reg.

[macneighill]

The re-enactors claim that the kilt wasn't worn in battle. So seeing as i am planning to do a quasi parade, the kilt would be appropriate

I think the mentality with that is, most reenactors prefer to portray the "typical" or "common" soldier. Which is fine, btw. Specialty impressions are a little more complex, per se. It takes a lot more research, a LOT more money and such, to give the most accurate portrayal. I know, my impression is a specialty impression. I portray a Surgeon or, an Assistant Surgeon (depending on the event). My impression is one of the most expensive ones in the hobby. I have one surgical kit that costs $700 (and that's the small one), the other kit I want runs $18,000 (these are just the surgical kits, nothing else). That one is a capital surgical kit. So yes, specialty impressions are more complex but, are a lot of fun too.

So, if I were you, I'd go through with it. As for wearing what the actual 79th wore, research what they wore and imitate it .

I know that re-enactors do tremendous amounts of research in to putting there kits together. Making sure that they are portraying that slice of history as close as they can. I lived with one for 25 years (my father) i can appreciate the attention to detail that these people put in to there work. I don't want to step on anyones toes who does this as a full time hobby. This is my research that i am doing now to better prepare for a program that i am apart of.

You are right about that. However, the hobby has been plagued with those that, just put on something that "looks" right. And at the same time, its been plagued by what's called a "stitch counter". Creating an ongoing war between the two views. I'm not saying both are bad. Just whatever it is you do, do it historically accurate. Research documents on the 79th (i.e. organization, uniforms, reports, records, etc.) and, do the best you can. Besides, it seems that Rachel is great wealth of knowledge of the 79th NY . . stick with it.