| Military Impressions | Civilian Roles | FAQs |

Vive le Roi!

We’re always looking to expand our ranks with people enthusiastic about the life of a soldat in this fascinating period. Arms drill and marching isn’t for the faint-hearted, but otherwise as long as you’re over 18, you are more than welcome! Anyone younger will need to bring a parent or guardian along.

We are happy for anyone to serve as a soldat regardless of your gender, and we will do our best to work with you if you have any particular needs or worries.

So if you fancy a go, drop us a message, and we’ll see how you look in the white coat of le Roi!

Image right: used with kind permission of Maddy Richardson

Voices of Williamsburg

While our main focus is building a good military impression, we do have a growing number in our civilian section. They depict the people of Williamsburg, Virginia, where Le Régiment Gatinois were deployed in September 1781.

The French Army was heavily reliant on American contractors all the time they were on US soil, and they received mixed welcomes from the population wherever they went. We are therefore making a concerted effort to avoid the stereotypical “camp follower”. All are welcome! Whatever your craft or interest, we will find a place for you.

Image left: used with kind permission of Emma Norfolk

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to speak French?
Absolutely not. You’ll pick up words and phrases as you learn the drill, but there’s no requirement for you to learn a whole new language.

What equipment do I need to start?
We’re not expecting you to get all your kit in one go. We’ll have some kit you can borrow to begin with until you can build up your own stash. One of our members can discuss it all with you in greater detail than here – so do drop us a message!

How much time does it take up?
Most events are over full weekends (setting up on Friday evening, leaving Sunday evening), but there are some events that are single days, like Buxton Georgian Festival. We might have some events that we’d especially like you to attend, but you can come to as many or as few events as you want to (or can).

Do I need any experience?
We’ve got a real mix of members – some who have been re-enacting for over a decade, and some who are on their first season! Whatever your experience, we’d love to welcome you.

How much does it cost?
Our members can take you through a detailed breakdown of all your kit and the relevant licences or memberships. Don’t worry – we can often help out with borrowed kit, and some things can be made in-house for the cost of the materials. If you’re at all worried, talk to us and we can usually find a solution.

How do I get started?
Drop us a message via the contact form, and we’ll get in touch as soon as we can! We’ll look to get you along to our next event, put you in some uniform, and see how you get on

Are there any age restrictions?
You need to be 18+ to be a soldat, or bring a parent or guardian with you for safety, insurance and licencing restrictions. We do ask that our soldats be able to participate fully in our arms drill, marching, sentry duties, and other military activities. If you’re at all worried, drop us a message and we can talk you through it all.

What events do you do?
Every year is different! We usually aim to attend a mix of “battle”, parade, and living history events, mostly in the midlands and the north of England. We are also working towards attending more “immersive” experiences, as and when they become available. We are hoping to go to Yorktown in Virginia in 2031 for the 250th anniversary.

What skills can I learn as a member?
There are so many things to learn! Safety is our top priority, so you’ll need to be properly trained and licenced before we let you loose on the muskets. Sewing is always a useful skill for any impression though.

For civilians, the world is your oyster. Our members practice many historic crafts, and if you have your own ideas, you’re welcome to bring them along.