A.C.W.S Artilleryman and Webmaster
Martin E. Cross

As a Fifty-something year old re-enactor, I have been involved in American Civil War activities for 19 years. I first joined the 1st Battalion Louisiana Zouaves in 1991, an easy start at that time as the unit could loan new members both uniform and weapon.

After two seasons with them, and a short attachment to the 33rd Virginia Infantry, I took part in the 1993 A.C.W.S. International Event at Eastnor Castle as a guest with the 1st Virginia Artillery. I was hooked on Artillery and joined them at their very next event!

Whilst with the 1st Virginia I managed to acquire a modest knowledge of Artillery Drill and Tactics and climbed to the giddy heights of sergeant within the regiment.

At the end of the 1999 re-enactnment season I transferred (Galvanised) to the 2nd. U.S. Artillery, Battery B.
Starting back as private of course, but soon promoted to Corporal, and some time later to First Sergeant and enjoying life in the Union Army.

Some years ago I used to work with computers, and they were most definately work NOT play. Now I have left that rat-race and found an occupation which fits around my Civil War activites, (most of the time!), my computer has become a secondary hobby. One day it seemed like a good idea to combine the two hobbies. First the Company Records were kept, then when a better computer was bought to replace the one that died, the Internet arrived on my desk. What better way to use my 'free' Web space than to set up a site reflecting my prime hobby. The rest, as they say, is history.

I am a member of The American Civil War Society (U.K.) Limited. They are a group of re-enactors portraying typical Confederate & Union Soldiers of the War Between the States, (The American Civil War) 1861-1865. They have over 800 members, all using period rifles and eight cannon belonging to the Society.

Equipment is used to set up a camp and create a "period impression" of the life of the armies as it would have been in the mid 1860's, most members living for the week-end under canvas in period tents. There is always a "modern" camp for caravans and modern tents for those who prefer it.

The season for re-enactments usually runs from Easter to September, and can consist of ten or more weekends of "battles" and "living history" at sites across England and Wales.

New members are always welcome into this family orientated group. The minimum age for combatants is 16 years; and for non-combatants 14 years. Sex is no barrier to membership, nor do female members have to assume just a "decorative" role, there are several who take an active part as soldiers. (As a few women did in the actual war.)

The aim is to achieve an historically accurate impression, whilst enjoying ourselves and entertaining and informing spectators.

If you are looking for an unusual and exciting hobby, come along and join, you'll get plenty of fresh air and meet many new friends.