Notice:
We have been asked if we are a "progressive" reenactment group. I for one do not fully understand what that means.
It smacks of marxism in my lexicon, which is decidedly NOT an 1830s philosophical issue. On consultation with others in the
know, we have been informed that Civil War reenactors classify their groups, and that the "progressive" moniker is a positive
one. We are not Civil War reenactors. We understand "progressive" means most of the units buttonholes are hand done. We laud
this, and our own members, when possible, are encouraged to improve their individual impressions. We understand that some
reenactors do not want to fall in with others with machine button holes. We will not comment as all are free to associate,
etc. As for our beloved Florida Frontier Guard; we accept anyone willing to make an effort to interpret 1830s military
life to the public, and appreciate those efforts, and encourage them to improve where necessary, and... oh yes, we love hand
buttonholes but do not require them...
Organization:
Established in 2003, the "Florida Frontier Guard" is an unincorporated association of independent
Seminole War reenactors dedicated to the interpretation of the common soldiers of the US Volunteer and Militia forces who
served in Florida during the Seminole Wars of 1817-1818, 1835-1842, and 1855-1858. The principal impression of the FFG is
of Florida miltia or US Volunteer troops of the Second Seminole War of 1835-1842. Besides local units, militiamen from several
states which supplied troops for the conflict (1836-1838). Members of the FFG also interpret the service of Native-American
auxilliary troops, including the "friendly Seminoles" (1835-1836), Creek Volunteer Regiment (1836-1837), and Delaware and
Shawnee Volunteers (1837-1838), and Black Seminole scouts.
Occasionally FFG members participate in living history and reenactment events commemorating
the 1st Seminole War of 1818, The Seminole Indian Campaign ("crisis") of 1849, and the 3rd Seminole War of 1855-1858.
Members are not bound to participate in any given event, or to limit their participation at
an event to the group impression of the FFG. No member is bound to "fall in" with the company when present at an
event. For example, many of our members also portray regular Army or Navy personnel of the Seminole War as well. The FFG
is dedicated to putting the needs of the historical events or programs in which they participate first and foremost.
Bylaws & Rules:
As of December 14, 2009 the Florida Frontier Guard operates according to the Regulations of the
US Army as adopted in 1825 and in force through 1837.
As of the same date, the FFG will employ Scott's Infantry Tactics (1835) as our common infantry drill.
Membership Dues:
The Florida Frontier Guard is currently planning on incorporating as a not-for-profit corporation in the
State of Florida. To support our expanding goals, dues will likely be charged for membership in the near future.
Regardless, anyone may fall in with the FFG at events, (given they
are equipped and comport themselves in an acceptable manner) but active membership is reserved for those willing to excell
in their impressions and kit.
Officers:
The officers of the FFG are elected bi-annually from among the membership. The officers
consist of a Captain, a Lieutenant, and an Orderly Sergeant. Any necessary ranks for a given event are appointed by the senior
FFG officer present at an event.
If you are interested in Seminole War living history, or in learning more about
FFG
and Seminole War programs, contact the web-master sergeant at
floridawar@msn.com
