About the American Civil War Society

The American Civil War Society (ACWS) was formed in 1975 and has been going from strength to strength ever since. We have strong connections with American Civil War re-enactors from all over the world. The Society provides an absorbing hobby for its members, excellent entertainment for its audiences and a focal point for the weekend events and venues where it appears. We aim to give an exciting, colourful, noisy spectacle that we hope is both enjoyable to watch as well as being very informative.

The ACWS is essentially a historical society, with many members acknowledged as experts on the history of the period who give talks to schools, colleges, and other organisations. ACWS caters for all interests in the subject from military modelling to music of the period and live shooting period black powder weapons. ACWS offers people the opportunity to experience 'living history' in the form of battles, displays of period medical techniques, authentic camps, civilian life, military drill and the portrayal of period events.

The ACWS is the largest American Civil War re-enactment society in the UK. Members are drawn from all walks of life and come from all parts of the country. The society is essentially a nonprofit making organisation and attendance at events by members is on a purely voluntary basis.

Over the years we have helped to raise money for various charities acting as the focal point for shows. We have attended fetes, carnivals, stately homes and organised events all over the country.

The ACWS is very much a FAMILY SOCIETY. The annual membership fee is very modest. You can join in a non-combat role from 14 onwards, and members from 16 to over 60 are actively engaged in our events and re-enactments, whilst there is a separate Cadet Corps for youngsters from members' families. We are well represented by the ladies, too, who act as nurses and camp followers. Some ladies also dress up as fighting soldiers and 'join the ranks'. Musicians also play an important part, and we have our own drum and fife corps. As well as the weekend re-enactment events we also have dances and other socials.

To join please write to the Membership Director by snail mail at ACWS Ltd, PO Box 270, WASHINGTON, NE37 9BX or Contact the Membership Director or download a Membership Application Form using one of the following links:

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