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The Independent Greys.5
About us . 5
Are you right for the Independent Greys? . 8
Accomplishments.9
Genesis .11
An interview with Jake Duda on the creation . 11
How To Get Started .18
Where to begin with joining the “Independent Greys” . 18
Contact Us . 20
Bylaws . 20
Dues . 21
Rules.22
Required Items.23
Sutlers . 25
1 st Maryland Infantry Regiment.26
1st Maryland Regiment History Overview . 27
2nd Maryland Infantry.28
Unit History Overview . 28
Maryland Cadets.31
Plug Uglies & Monument Street Girls.33
Plug Uglies . 33
Monument Street Girls . 33
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True Marylander Magazine.34
Social Media.35
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Chapter One
The Independent Greys
About us
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The “Independent Greys” was the
name used by several Maryland
Militia infantry companies that
formed a battalion within the 53rd Maryland Militia Regiment from
1 859-1861. Shortly after the Baltimore Riot on April 19, 1 861, it was
clear that Maryland was not going to secede from the Union. Many
members of the various Maryland militia units were very “pro South.
"The 53rd Maryland Militia was one of those militias. The unit dissolved
as many of it’s members went south to serve in the Confederate Army
being formed in Virginia. It is estimated that over 30,000 Marylanders
served in the Confederate Army during the war. Many Marylanders found
themselves serving in Virginia Regiments since Maryland as a state
never seceded. There were several “all Maryland’ units that were
ultimately raised. One of those units was the 1 st Maryland Infantry
Regiment formed in the Spring of 1 861. Company D of the 1 st Maryland
Infantry Regiment was commanded by Capt. James Herbert. Capt.
Herbert formally served as a Lieutenant in Company A, 53rd Maryland
Militia prior to the war . Company A was one of the “Independent
Greys” companies within the
53rd Maryland. Carrying on
with tradition; Capt. Herbert
nicknamed his Company D
“The Independent Greys”.
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this per Capt. Herbert’s 1862 (February) newspaper recruiting
advertisement in The Richmond Enquirer (photo above).
Carrying on with the same Maryland tradition, we named our modern
day organization the “Independent Greys”. We are an independent
campaign oriented group that teaches the public about the Confederate
Marylanders role in the American Civil War through the means of living
history. The genesis was in 2014 with the creation of “Company D” 2nd
Maryland Infantry (1 862-1 865).
Since then, our group has
evolved and expanded to include
an early war 1 st Maryland
Infantry Regiment impression.
We also felt the need to create a
program to teach and motivate
youth to become interested and
learn history. With that need, we
found the means through the
creation of the “Maryland
Cadets”. This is a youth history club that participates in battlefield trips,
camping excursions, and learning by attending our various living history
events. We have also created a regularly published magazine. Our
magazine is called the “True Marylander”. We are the first and only
group in the living history hobby to have produced a publication on this
level and magnitude. All our magazine editions have evolved from hard
print to now fully virtual. Yet, another first and major innovation which
no other group has attempted. We have created two “campaigner”
versions of our civilian arm; for the ladies we have “The Monument
Street Girls” and for the men “Plug Uglies”. Both impressions are
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embedded within Maryland’s (Baltimore’s) history. Each of these groups
were very pro South and played an important role. We feel it is
important to have the ability to represent the groups previously
mentioned within the appropriate venues. In a sense, we created a
modern day “Maryland Line” of history!
The various branches/impressions (mentioned previously) are mere
bricks in a sense just like the very bricks used to build a house. They are
strong and can stand independently on their own, but when put
together they create something bigger; something that can stand the
test of time. Bricks need something to hold them into place to solidify
the structure and keep it from falling over; they need mortar/concrete.
The creation of the “Independent Greys” organization is just that: it is
the mortar/concrete that binds the bricks together. Each one of our
impressions/branches are created on a solid foundation. Our foundation
consists of research and documentation, morals and values, as well as
motivation and teamwork. Together, we have created a solid and
formidable group that you see today!
If you are looking to join a group that represents Maryland, then look no
further! We are the best you will find in the hobby! No other Maryland
group is as well researched or organized than our group!
Early War, Mid War, Late War, Civilian impressions, and
even youth programs....we have it covered! If you
have the heart and the desire to “do it right’...then
YOU are the type of person we want!
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Are you right for the Independent Greys?
If you answer yes to one or more of the following, then you are the
type of person we are looking for to join us!
• -I like teaching others
• -I want to do research and make my impression as good as I can make
it
• -I think outside the box
• -I like learning
• -I want to be a part of a team
• -I love Maryland history
• -I want to have fun
• -I have a low tolerance for mediocrity
• -I don’t follow the crowd
• -(if you are in the hobby already) I don’t like the direction the hobby is
going
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Chapter Two
Accomplishments
In the short time we have been in existence, we have accomplished a
good deal and met many milestones. It is through our member’s
enthusiasm and drive that has made our previous years a success! Every
organization in the hobby should set challenges for themselves and
strive for success above and beyond the accepted norm. By doing so,
an organization will begin to stand out and apart from the mainstream
conglomeration of groups. We are the fastest emerging group in the
hobby. We embrace a “think outside the box” attitude when it comes to
every aspect from recruiting to scenarios in the field. So far, it has been
a huge success! Over the past few years some of our accomplishments
have been:
• Creation and expansion of “Company D” 2nd Maryland Infantry
• 4 successful years doing living history weekends at the Gettysburg
National Park Service
• Established an annual canned food drive to help those in need
• Created an annual Adopt-A-Family for Christmas program to help a
local family in need
• Established unit Bylaws and created guidelines for our impression(s)
• Uncovered and shared mega tonnage of research relevant to 1 st and
2nd Maryland Infantry. No other Maryland unit has produced any where
near the research let alone actually shared it publicly.
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• Within 4 years, we have grown from one member to over 30
members. This is in a time when the hobby norm is seeing declining
membership
• Successfully set up not one but 4 webpages
• Expansion of our Social Media presence
• We surpassed over 1000 “LIKES” on Facebook public group page.
• We established a quarterly newsletter which turned into an online
“virtual” magazine, the True Marylander
• We have done several interviews with famous artists, collectors, and
authors
• We have launched a “secondary” impression, Co. D 1st Maryland
Infantry Regiment
• Created a webpage for Co. D 1st Maryland Infantry Regiment
• Created a Quartermaster ration issue for events
• Created 4 individual messes within our Company
• Established our own liability insurance
• Formed many partnerships with other groups and organizations
• We maintain our “independence” from Line Organizations.
• Two successful years of teaching at local schools
• Established a branch off Youth organization called the Maryland
Cadets
• Created a full webpage for the Maryland Cadets
• Created a Unit Logo (branding)
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• Creation of the “Monument Street Girls” impression
• Designed and sold a multitude of Company T Shirts
• Introduced various innovation techniques utilizing modern technology
to capture the 1 860s story were are re-creating
• Found Lt. McCullough’s Diary (from Co.D 2nd Maryland) and
reproduced the only “digital” copy in the word. It is shared publicly
now on our website
• We have built relationships with various park services in 3 states
• Creation of the “Plug Uglies” impression
• Creation of the umbrella organization, the Independent Greys
Chapter Three
An interview with Jake Duda on the
creation
Company’s Captain and Commander of the “Greys”,
Jake Duda started the group on his own. He was
With every organization, there is a story that goes
of it’s creation. Our Independent Greys are no
exception. Starting with the founding of “Company
D” 2nd Maryland Infantry in 2014, our group
genesis started with a vision combined with passion
and motivation of one individual. Now the
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tired of years seeing the living history hobby decline due to various
issues such as event and organization mismanagement right down to
the loss of focus on the origins of how the hobby first got started to
begin with. Jake started in the hobby back in 1 985 when he was 1 5 yrs
old. "The world was a different place back then”, stated Jake. “People
embraced history and were eager to learn. The wave of political
correctness that exists today was non existent then. People accepted
history for what it was; simply put, it was the actions and stories of our
past that helped shaped us as a people today.” Jake loved going to a
local annual Civil War event near his home at a historical house named
Ballistone Mansion located in Middle River, MD. He wanted to join a
Confederate unit, but being 1 5 yrs old many groups ignored his interest.
Not deterred, Jake visited the Union camp and most of the groups
there also ignored him except for one group. He started talking to a
bearded man named Art Buker. Art was the Captain of a group named
“Company C” 2nd United States Sharpshooters. He brought Jake on as
a bugler until he was old enough to carry a rifle (1 6 yrs old). The rest
was history and Jake was hooked on a hobby he loved throughout the
years. “Back then, we were Campaigning before it was cool like it is
today. Actually, everyone was campaigners as that was the only way as
it was period correct”, said Jake. “Now,
a large percentage of the hobby lost
touch with those roots of purism. Most
people in the hobby now sleep in big A-
frame tents and wall tents using
cots....COTS! It’s just very sad to see
things to have deteriorated like they
have over the years”, said Jake.
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The hobby has taken a wide left off the road in regards to authenticity
and research. Unit commanders became concerned with building their
membership numbers instead of teaching their men or guiding them to
build their impressions correctly. Now, inaccurate representations are
common and the norm. The campaigner approach to the hobby is now
more of a revelation than a practice. To be honest, campaigning
shouldn’t be a term, but instead should be the simple norm in the
hobby. Approaching the hobby accurately recreate life from the 1 860s
should be a united effort and the norm by all...not the exception. Jake
has seen the hobby over the years rise and then decline. Jake stated
that in his opinion, the high mark was about the mid 1 990s. Towards
the end of the 90’s is when the hobby started to decline in quality
impressions and groups per his observations. During the 1 990s, Jake
was serving in the United States Marines and would attend events as
much as possible when he was able to come home to do so. After his
10 yr service in the Marines, Jake began to spend more time back in the
hobby. He was member to various groups over the years, both
Confederate and Union. “I love history”, said Jake, “and I love the
Confederate impression, especially the Maryland Confederate
impression. I was born and raised in Maryland. The story of the small
state during the war was a microcosm of what was taking place across
the country on a larger scale. Maryland is so rich in history, but sadly
the Maryland schools do not teach the lineage of the Old Line State”,
stated Jake. He belonged to several “Maryland” groups over the years.
“They all suck ass”, said Jake. “It’s sad that most of the Maryland
groups in current existence do not know the damn history of the unit
they represent. They do almost zero research on the unit. The end
product is a shitty inaccurate impression. They celebrate mediocrity like
it was a holiday. Then when someone starts to present the ol’
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Praetorian Guard (the self proclaimed hobby experts) with research and
facts to let them know they can improve their impressions; the old
guard gets nervous and fear you are trying to take over their unit”,
laughs Jake. “Who wants to take over the boat and paddle through their
little shit puddle?” (he smiles) Tired of the clicks, drama, and inaccurate
approach these units
take, Jake went on his
own. “I got tired of the
freaks and idiots running
around in this hobby
thumping their chests
thinking they are
something special”, Jake
said as he shook his head.
“That’s part of the
problem. It’s not about
THEM; It’s about the men
we represent and the history we teach. I started thinking; I have been
around the hobby a lot longer than most these idiots. I have done
extensive research over the years that would make even the veteran
history author take a double take. I am also capable of leading. I served
in the real military and lead real military men, unlike most the jackasses
running around playing General. I figured, what the hell...I could
definitely do better. If at the very least, I will just have fun and enjoy
the hobby the way it should be,” said Jake. “Company D” 2nd Maryland
Infantry (recreated) was born, which later lead to the creation of the
Independent Greys.
At the start, Company D 2nd Maryland Infantry was chosen as the unit
as it was interesting in several ways. One, it was the smallest company
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in 2nd Maryland Infantry. They numbered 54 officers and men at full
strength. “They had the vibe as being the underdogs when compared to
the other larger companies. I really liked that! I could identify with that”,
said Jake. Secondly, the men of the original Company hailed from all
over Maryland and not just one county. “I really like the fact the men
came from all corners of Maryland. I feel that is a great company to
recreate as it represents the Maryland men from all points”.
Undeterred, Jake
started attended events
own his own. He built a
webpage and started
uploading and sharing his
years of research to the
public. This was a novel
idea since most of the old
guard in the hobby “sat
on their research”. Many
thought that holding on
:o research gave them a
sick sort of power over others; more like the illusion of the all knowing
master. If they control the information they control the unit. “That
really pisses me off that these jackasses horde research and artifacts
instead of sharing. They didn’t make this history; the soldiers who
fought the war did. Their story and remaining artifacts are an American
treasure not a source of power for some fat old bearded man who lives
a mediocre life”, said Jake. “I share every ounce of research I can
through our webpage and social media pages. I want others to learn and
share. It’s not my history; It’s our history. I’m merely one of the
caretakers of it.” Jake’s approach to his impression, which is a combined
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delivery of detailed research and passion, quickly started attracting
others to the flag of the newly formed group. “I went on my own not
expecting to form a group. It was more I wanted to do my own thing
and enjoy the hobby I love. Then it seemed like one day it from just me
to then boom; I had guys asking me how to join”, said Jake. “I not only
had people interested in what I was doing, but I had quality people
wanting to join. When I say quality I mean in the sense that everyone of
our members that joins our group have heart, passion, and enthusiasm
which are key ingredients to building an impression. Since 2014 to
present, we have went from just me to a company that numbers over
30 men.”. Jake’s vision of a group that mimicked group’s from his first
days in the hobby in 1985 has picked up steam.
Company D now stands strong and it’s members all possess the same
passion and energy as it’s founder. The members come from all over.
They span across states, including New York, Michigan, Pennsylvania,
Maryland, and Virginia. Company D has not only grown, but has become
a leader in regards to trying new innovations and
integrating modern technology to reach the youth of
our Country. “We are competing with PlayStations
and Cell phones to get the attention of the younger
crowd”, says Jake, “the younger generation doesn't
rnt to come to an event and get bored to death by
some fat old bearded re-enactor snootily boring them to death with
orations and speeches standing over their table display in front of an A
frame tent. You have to reach out and grab their attention with shock
and awe. Once you got their attention, you can bring them to your
time period. You know what? Magically, that concept works.” Company
D has also become innovation leaders in regards to their Magazine
publication, TRUE MARYLANDER. The Magazine started out as a
JOIN
NOW!
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periodic newsletter. The publication evolved in two short years by the
efforts and ability of it’s editor, Jordan Schatz. “Every member in the
Independent Greys brings something to the table. We have members
who have skill with the written word, we have men with producing talent
and video skill, we have men who even have culinary talent. We have a
great mix of experience levels. We have hobby veterans and we have
members who are new to the hobby. In a time when units and
organizations are losing people; we are gaining and recruiting strong.
Every one of our members contribute. Everyone of members have the
same passion and dedication to recreating life of a Confederate solider
from Maryland accurately.” Company D may have started with one man,
but it quickly evolved into so much more. It is far greater than one man
now. “Company D 2nd Maryland evolved into the creation of Company D
1 st Maryland Infantry Regiment impression. This impression was created
as a secondary impression for our guys who wanted to participate in
early war events. We also created the Monument Street Girls as an
impression for the ladies. Then we launched our Maryland Cadets
program for the youth. As our group grew and evolved, we needed
something that gelled all our efforts into unison as one!” The
Independent Greys was created. “I never liked the shit some of the
umbrella organizations was shoveling”, stated Jake. “I could not see any
umbrella organizations we truly fit in with. All the mainstream orgs suck
ass and although the Campaigner orgs are great, they want members to
conform to whatever impression they chose to do at an event. That is
not conducive to what we are building. We feel our identity and
impressions will get lost in the shuffle. Our members want to represent
Maryland troops and Maryland troops only. The solution to our needs
was to simply create an Umbrella Organization ourselves.” The
Independent Greys was created! “Why not do what we do best? We
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ignore the rules of the hobby norm and just write our own rules...it’s
that simple”. The Independent Greys is truly a team effort and they
have grown together! The Independent Greys stands proudly
independent from any group or organization as a nation unto it’s own.
“We are here to stay. Maybe just maybe our vision and enthusiasm will
be carried to other units/orgs and that will help jump start the hobby
again to get back to it’s purism roots. We are not trying to add to the
hobby; we are starting a damn revolution to transform it!”, says Jake,
“the current way that is the accepted norm is not working. The
methods being applied suck. It’s time to re-evaluate and adjust or get
the hell out of the way”. Jake closed the interview by saying “I’m
honored to be a part of such a elite group. I am blessed to call them
each my friend.” The Independent Greys is always actively recruiting like
minded people. If you are ready, Join the Charge! Join the Independent
Greys today!
Chapter Four
How To Get Started
Where to begin with joining the
“Independent Greys”
I know getting involved in this hobby for the first time can be stressful.
For those already in the hobby, joining a new group can be just as
stressful. In “Independent Greys”, we take the worry out of the process.
We have everything streamlined so you can be easily guided from the
time you join, through the process of obtaining the uniform/gear we
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require, to hitting the field with us. Once you chose to join our
organization, you will be welcomed right from the start. Many groups
leave new members “to the wolves” as they try to obtain their uniform
and gear. There is no real guidance by many groups in that department
which could result in those new members buying the wrong items
needed or spending way too much of their hard earned money. Many
other groups have internal clicks and tend to be unwelcoming to new
members. We avoid those problems as we integrate new members
directly into our organization. We personal work with the new member
right from the starting gate. There are no clicks in The Greys as there
is no room for them. There is only one click and that is the
“Independent Grey” click. Once you join, you are a full member from
the start and a respected part of our organization. We do have an initial
vetting process and reserve the “first right of refusal” along with
“dismissal rights” should an individual warrants such actions. We are
looking for a certain quality and character with
prospective new members. If you answered yes to
any or all of the questions asked in Chapter 1, odds
are you are that type of member. To join the
“Independent Greys”, it is as simple as “1-2-3”!
STEP 1: CONTACT US
STEP 2: READ OUR BYLAWS
STEP 3: PAY YOUR DUES
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Contact Us
If you are interested in joining our
group, the very first thing you
need to do is contact us. Click the
link above that has our email address. Once we receive your email, we
will send you an online membership form to fill out and guide you from
there!
ioin@indeDendentarevs.com
The second action you will take is
that you will need to read our
organization’s bylaws. We want
you to be familiar with our policies
and get a sense of how we do things in the Independent Greys.
Depending on which “Division” you want to join; there are specific
guidelines for each one. We have uniform regulations for our military
impressions which are all derived and supported by research. Our main
focus is “Company D 2nd Maryland Infantry”. We ask that all new
members kit out for that impression. As mentioned previously, we have
a secondary impression which is “Company D 1 st Maryland Infantry
Regiment”. This is strictly a voluntary impression for those interested in
Bylaws
f \
www.independentgreys.com/
office/indeoendent-arevs.Ddf
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doing it. Having this secondary impression opens doors to our
organization to be able to participate in early war events. If you are
joining us as a civilian impression, there are one of two groups you can
join. For the ladies, there is the Monument Street Girls and for the men
there is the Plug Uglies. There are pertinent guidelines for each
impression. Regardless if you choose to join us as military or civilian, we
will guide you with every step as you are a valued member!
Dues
Our dues are simple and very affordable.
We require everyone to pay (currently)
$10 a person per year. This money
covers our group’s Liability Insurance
which is required by most event venues. We have premium insurance
which surpasses event minimum insurance requirements. That is it. No
hidden dues or “Company Funds” or “Organization Dues”. We already
own our assets (flags, extra gear, rifles, and uniforms). The
Organization Commander takes care of website hosting and advertising.
There is no need to hold a Company reserve cash fund. I will point out,
though; some events do have a registration fees (usually $10). If that is
the case, we identify the event has a registration fee and each
individual is required to send the event that fee if they want to
participate. Most of our event venue is free though. We also offer mess
rations for certain events. This is strictly optional. Most of the times it
is a nominal $10 per individual which covers the rations for the whole
weekend. Once we welcome you to our organization, dues are to be
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paid upon 10 days prior to your first event and then every year after
that by January 1st. You can either pay by (in person) cash, check, or
electronically using PayPal. That is it! The 3 initial steps to
Chapter Five
Rules
The Independent Greys, as stated above, has Bylaws which outline the
structure of our organization. We also have “Rules” as well. We are not
one’s to brow beat members with policies and rules endlessly. That
simply sucks the fun out of things. It is, however, important to mention
our rules from the start as to deter and/or weed out any potential
troublemakers from seeking membership in our organization. Our rules
are simple and actually common sense. If you can adhere to the house
rules of most Pubs and Taverns (meaning we modeled our rules similar
to them as they are common sense), you will have no problems in our
group.
Our Common Sense Code of Conduct:
• Have fun
• No politics or religious rants. (We all have different views. Our
camp is not a soap box for you)
• No cursing around spectators and/or around women and children
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• If you need to smoke a modern cigarette; then go outside (outside
the camp)
• No drama (we have a zero tolerance for drama)
• Pay your tab (pay our annual insurance dues and rations if you
order them)
• Be hospitable (don’t be a dick)
• Respect the person sitting next to you (look out for each other)
• No thievery or lying (zero tolerance)
• Don’t be obnoxious
• Respect the management (means the leadership)
Chapter Six
Items
Whatever impression you chose,
military or civilian, we have
“impression guidelines” that are set
in place. The guidelines are specific
for each impression as to assure you are obtaining the correct items
that are historically correct and conducive to our overall appearance.
There is no deviation so please ask fellow members any questions you
may have prior to purchasing you kit. We are here to help you as a new
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member! To get totally outfitted for the
impression of “Company D” 2nd Maryland
Infantry, it will cost you anywhere from $2,000
to $2,300 from head to toe (including rifle and
gear). Before you get sticker shock, remember
this is a hobby just like boating, hunting, or
racing is a hobby. In comparison to the hobbies
mentioned, this is by far cheaper. View it as an
investment. The items you get will last many
years into the future as long as you properly
take care of those items. The main expense is
your rifle. They run between $900-$ 1 200 new. The good news is, you
can reduce some of your initial costs by shopping around for good
quality used items. You can pick up a good used rifle for between $400-
$600. Please refer to the “Impression Guidelines” link mentioned above
as there are guidelines regarding rifle also.
The next main expense is the uniform
(kepi, jacket, and trousers). The full
uniform runs around $530. Currently,
we have been ordering our uniforms
through Bristol Hollow. They have the
correct color wool and does great quality work. Unfortunately, quality
items take time to make at times. Currently, it is a 4-6 month turn-a¬
round period from the time you order to time you receive your
uniforms. There is a specific way they want measurements too. I have
taken the time to make this process easy and as painless as possible. I
have made a section on the Co.D 2nd Maryland Infantry webpage that
talks you through the order process (what to order, what color and
material, and how to measure yourself). I have a similar section on Co.D
1 st Maryland’s webpage regarding how to order that specific uniform.
f \
www.2ndmarvlandcod.com/
orderina-a-uniform-made/
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Sutlers
Once you are ready to start
acquiring your kit (uniform, gear,
and rifle), please feel free to let us
know and an Org. member will be
more than happy to discuss and/or
meet you in Gettysburg to show you several sutlers (vendors) that sell
the items you will need. All of what we do has been researched and
documented right down to the uniforms and gear. Again, please read
and adhere to our uniform regulations (via link mentioned previously).
Please DO NOT deviate from what we are telling you to buy. Our
organization has a certain uniform criteria. We also only buy
“campaigner quality” which is hobby slang word meaning uniforms and
gear that has been researched and reproduced historically correct. Just
because a sutler sells it does not mean it
is period correct for the hobby, let alone
our 1st or 2nd Maryland impressions (and
civilian too). I know this sounds
repetitive, but please contact us prior to
making purchases or if you have
questions at any time. We are here to
help you get the right items for what we
need. You are investing your hard earned
money as you build your kit, which we
realize. We want to assure that you get
www.independentarevs.com/
links/approved-sutler-list.html
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the right items. We look at several factors when picking a sutler to do
business with. Sutlers we deal with are 1) Ethical business. 2) Quality
items. 3) Historically researched items. 4) correct items for our
Maryland impression(s) 5) price (remember though, you pay a bit more
for quality, but quality items are correct as well as last longer).
Chapter Six
1 st Maryland
Infantry Regiment
www. 1 stmarvlandcod.com
Our established “secondary” military
impression is Company D 1 st
Maryland Infantry Regiment. Doing so
allows us to expand our event venue to now include early war events
from 1861-1 862. This impression is strictly voluntary for our members.
The added impression to our over all group allows us more flexibility and
versatility. We have done just as much research on this impression as
we did with our 2nd Maryland Infantry impression. We created an
independent webpage strictly for 1 st Maryland as we feel this
impression and unit history deserves it own place on the web!
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1 st Maryland Regiment History Overview
After the Baltimore Riots, Abraham Lincoln declared martial law in
Maryland and sent Federal Troops to occupy the state. Thousands of
“Pro South” Marylanders headed to Virginia to enlist in various units in
the Confederate Army. Even though Maryland never seceded, some
wanted to form their own unit as they felt it was necessary to have the
state represented within the Army. The 1 st Maryland Infantry Regiment
started to form shortly after the War Between the States began in
April of 1 861. It was officially formed (mustered) on June 1 6, 1 861.
The regiment was made up of volunteers from Maryland who many
served pre-war in Maryland State Militias. The regiment saw action at
the First Manassas, Gen. “Stonewall” Jackson’s Valley Campaign, and in
the Peninsular Campaign (Seven Days Battles). It was mustered out of
service in August 1862, as the members initial 1 year service expired.
Knowing that they were unable to return to Union-occupied Maryland,
some of the men re-enlisted in various Maryland Artillery or Cavalry
units that were in service. Those men that were left went on to become
the nucleus of a new Maryland Infantry unit being formed, the 1 st
Maryland Infantry Battalion (later re-named the 2nd Maryland Infantry).
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Chapter Seven
2nd Maryland
Infantry
www.2ndmarvlandcod.com
Our established “primary” military
impression is Company D 2nd
Maryland Infantry. This impression
covers the span of 1 862-1 865. This impression is mandatory for all
members doing military. We have done extensive research on 2nd
Maryland Infantry. You will find no other group with better
documentation and research than what we have put together! We have
available original diaries, images, reference books, and original items! We
offer the most comprehensive and articulated approach of recreating
this impression you will find amongst any other Maryland unit in
existence today! We are truly in a league of our own!
Unit History Overview
The 2nd Maryland Infantry was mustered into service in September of
1 862. Initially, the unit was designated as the 1st Maryland Infantry
Battalion.The 1 st Battalion was formed around the survivors of the 1 st
Maryland Infantry Regiment which saw service from the summer of
1 861 until the summer of 1 862. The 1 st MD Reg. disbanded after their
one year enlistment was at an end. Some members reenlisted in the
cavalry and others in the artillery, but a few officers and men stayed in
Richmond to recruit Marylanders who had run the Union blockade. They
were successful in recruiting five full companies by September 1 862
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and soon left Richmond for the Shenandoah
Valley. The five companies arrived at
Winchester and formed a sixth company with
the extra men from between the existing
companies. At this time the men elected
officers for the battalion. The officers elected
were as follows: Capt. William Murray (Co. A),
Capt. J.P. Crane (Co. B), Capt. James R.
Herbert (Co. C), Capt. Joseph McAleer (Co.
D)., Capt. John Torsch (Co. E), and Capt. Fred
Gwynn (Co. F). The new battalion was soon
joined by Capt. William Goldsborough with a
new company that he raised on the Eastern
Shore of Maryland. The new company was designated as Company G.
With only 7 companies, they fell short of forming a whole Regiment (10
Companies total). The unit was officially the 1st Maryland Infantry
Battalion. The battalion was renamed as 2nd Maryland Infantry in
October of 1863. This was to avoid confusion with being mistaken for
the 1 st Maryland Infantry Regiment.
On September 28th, the battalion was officially mustered into the
Confederate States Army and elections were held for battalion officers.
The first ballot went to Bradley Johnson for Lt. Colonel, but since he
was on assignment in Richmond, he declined the office. He suggested
that since Capt. Herbert did most of the work in recruiting the new unit
he should lead it. The battalion agreed and made Capt.Herbert the Lt.
Colonel. Capt. Goldsborough was elected to Major. Their former
company’s command was taken over by Lt. Duvall (Co.C) and Lt.
Stewart (Co.G).
The 2nd Maryland Infantry, under the command of Gen. William
“Grumble” Jones, participated in the several operations in the
Shenandoah Valley during the winter of 1 862. The Battalion’s first
action was a raid on the B & 0 Railroad in the Spring of 1 863. In June
1 863, Gen. Robert E. Lee started his campaign offensive to head North.
Gen. Lee needed to clear his flank and route of supplies. He sent Gen.
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Richard Ewell and his 2nd Corps to the Valley to take on Union Gen.
Milroy's army. During this action, the 2nd Maryland Infantry was
engaged in 2nd battle for Winchester. After the battle, the 2nd
Maryland was assigned to Gen. George H. Steuart’s Brigade in
Gen.Edward Allegheny Johnson's Division of Ewell's 2nd Corps. They
headed north and joined with Lee's army at Gettysburg on the evening
of July 1 st. Steuart’s Brigade slept under arms on the property of the
Lady Farm, just west of Rock Creek. On July 2nd, the brigade attacked
the east end of Culp's Hill and was successful in carrying the lower
Union breastworks. As they pressed up the hill, the 2nd Maryland met
some heavy resistance. During this time Col. Herbert was severely
wounded as he was hit by three separate shots. After spending the
night in their captured trenches, the brigade formed up the next day
(July 3rd) at a right angle to their previous position and tried to sweep
the Union troops off the top of Culp's Hill (the charge on Pardee field).
The Union lines had been reinforced the night prior and repulsed this
attack. Maj. Goldsborough was wounded and Capt. Murray (Co. A) was
killed. The command of the battalion went to Capt. Crane (Co. B), who
was the next senior rank. That evening the brigade withdrew to the east
bank of Rock Creek. The Marylanders Lost 48% of their force either
killed and wounded during the battle.
In October of 1 863, the 2nd Maryland Infantry was ordered to report to
(then) Col. Bradley T. Johnson (a Marylander) at Hanover Junction, Va.
In an effort to consolidate all Confederate Maryland troops together,
Johnson had permission from the War Department to bring the 2nd MD
Infantry, the 1 st and 2nd MD Cavalry, and the 1 st, 2nd, & 4th MD
Artillery all together as an independent Maryland organization. This
newly formed organization was called “The Maryland Line”.
During the Battle of Cold Harbor in June 1 864, the 2nd Maryland was
held in reserve. As Union Gen.Hancock’s assault broke the first line of
Confederates, the 2nd Maryland Infantry without orders charged
forward with bayonets to recapture their own line lost to the advancing
Union forces. The Marylanders even turned some of the cannon on the
retreating Federals. The 2nd Maryland was commended for their
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gallantry in this action and Gen. Lee credited them with saving
Richmond. After the battle, the 2nd Maryland Infantry was attached to
Archers Brigade under Gen. Archer (a Marylander). 2nd Maryland served
in this brigade until the end of the war. 2nd Maryland participated in the
fighting at Weldon Railroad in August 1 864 which resulted in heavy
casualties, including Capt. Crane. Command of 2nd Maryland was now
given to Capt. Duvall of Co. C. At Peebles Farm, the Marylanders were
heavily engaged again resulting in 30% casualties including Capt. Duvall
(wounded). This action left only six officers still in service for 2nd
Maryland. Capt. McAleer (Co D) took command. The Marylanders fought
at the Battle of Squirrel Level Road with a fighting force with only 100
men left in it’s ranks. Due to some internal disputes amongst the
officers left in 2nd Maryland, Capt. McAleer resigned and requested
transfer to another post. Command of 2nd Maryland fell to Capt. Torsch
(Company E). At Hatcher’s Run during the Spring of 1 865, the 2nd
Maryland Infantry (along with the rest of the Confederate line) was
overrun. This Union offensive across the Confederate lines was later
known as the "Petersburg Breakthrough.” This action forced General
Lee to withdrawal from Petersburg and take what was left of his army
west to regroup. Outnumbered and further bloodshed was pointless,
Gen. Lee surrendered his Army of Northern Virginia at Appomattox, Va.
At surrender, 2nd Maryland Infantry had only 59 men left. Most of the
companies were commanded by Sergeants and Corporals. Company A
had the most men present (1 2) and Company H, the lease (1). Note:
Company D had 4 men left.
Chapter Eight
Maryland Cadets
www.marvlandcadets.com
The Maryland Cadets is the youth arm
of our organization. In the spirit of
being stewards to our youth, our
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group has created a section to get youth (boys and girls) ages 9-16yrs
of age interested in history and gain hands on experience in the field
with living history. Most groups, including ours, do not allow anyone
under 16 to take the field in reenactments for safety and liability
reasons. Our group, many who are parents themselves, have
brainstormed a way to get youth involved in learning more about history
pertaining to The War Between the States. We have came up with a
solution which was found from history. In Baltimore from 1 843-1861,
there was an organization called “The Maryland Cadets”. It was a
Baltimore Militia unit comprising of young Marylanders. The concepts of
education, motivation, and preservation drive our work as Maryland
Cadets.
To begin, our work is to remember our nation’s history as accurately as
possible by researching, reading, and investigating primary sources.
Maryland’s unique role in the Civil War is an important focus of our
studies.
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Secondly, our work as students of
history is to find motivation in
the actions of our ancestors.
Motivation to save the past for
the future. Motivation to help our
fellow man. Motivation to make
this world a better place for
everyone.
Most importantly, our work is to
preserve the gems of history for
all to see, remember, enjoy, and learn about. From primary documents
such as letters, photographs, and journals to original artifacts to
battlefields and monuments our work is to save, share, and teach.
Our work will reveal to the Maryland Cadets the influence history has on
our daily lives and the importance of learning from history and
preserving it for ourselves and future generations.
m rv
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Chapter Nine
Plug Uglies & Monument
Street Girls
Plug Uglies
www.indeDendentarevs.com/
the-olua-ualies.html
This is our organization’s civilian
impression for men. The Plug
Uglies were a strong and dominant
street gang in Baltimore during 1861. The Uglies controlled Baltimore
and it’s city elections during the 1 850s through fear and violence. On
April 19, 1 861, the Plug Uglies were center stage as they fired the first
shot at the 6th Mass. Regt. as they marched down Pratt Street thus
starting what was known as the Baltimore Riot. This skirmish resulted in
the first bloodshed of the American Civil War. This is the most recent
addition to the Independent Grey’s impression portfolio.
Monument Street Girls
www.indeDendentarevs.com/
monument-street-airls/
The Monument Street Girls: This is
our organization’s impression for
women. The Monument Street
Girls was a Baltimore high social class of Ladies who was very pro South.
The ladies were defiant to the Federal Troops occupying Baltimore in
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1861. They secretly made flags and procured supplies for the Maryland
men serving in the Confederate Army. Some ladies even acted as spies
for the South! Examples of Famous Monument Street Girls are Hetty
Carey and Euphema Goldsborough. This is a great opportunity for the
ladies to get involved!
Chapter Ten
True Marylander Magazine
This is our organization’s online
virtual Magazine! This publication
initially started out as a
newsletter but quickly evolved
into a first rate magazine with both esthetics and design. Our magazine
is a quarterly publication. Our articles range from our current research
to interviews with famous authors, historians, and artists. We are always
looking more writers! This division can offer an opportunity to be active
in our group for those who are elders or those with disabilities which
would prevent them from participating actively in the field. If you have
the ability to research and have a creative mind, you can be a valued
member of the Independent Greys!
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Chapter Eleven
Social Media
We have a very strong social
media presence in most
every major outlet. It is
important to stay in touch with the public for both name recognition
and recruiting. Check out link above to view our major social media
efforts.
www.indeDendentarevs.com/links/
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