Today, the Pelican Rifles has been re-born as a living history organization, which seeks to authentically recreate a Southern infantry company during the War for Southern Independence. The living history organization is based in Fort Gibson, Oklahoma. The unit performs locally, but also travels across the nation and participates in larger events each year. The company in the field functions in much the same manner as the original companies did so many years ago. Our authentic portrayal is constantly developing and improving with time.
The Pelican Rifles needs you. The most important position is of course, the soldier on the line, or private. This position is the one where there is the most action. There are however, other roles which can be pursued. Field musicians such as drummers or fifers are always needed. A good cook is a valuable asset. There is a need for someone to be in charge of the camp while others are in drill or battle. Even though the ladies are usually not military members of the company, we want everyone in the family to participate in the many civilian roles and functions that are available. We want to be a close-knit group capable of making everyone in the family feel welcome.
Do things right from the beginning. An authentic impression is not cheap. It is likely that a new recruit will eventually spend at least more that $1,500 over a period of one year. Maintaining the equipment and uniforms is fairly minimal after the initial purchases are made. Guidance in the initial purchase of uniform and equipment is recommended. We will provide you with uniform, equipment and weapons guidelines and a list of desirable sutlers and providers to insure you the best combination of value and authenticity.
The Pelican Rifles associates with other Civil War re-enactors from Oklahoma and Arkansas by being a company of the 2nd Trans-Mississippi Battalion of the 2nd Brigade of the 1st Confederate Division. The quality of our portrayal and the accuracy of our impressions will reflect well upon the public and others in our hobby. Most importantly, however it is a reflection upon our noble Southern ancestors who served with this unit.
Finally, let us warmly invite you to come and see for yourself what the Pelican Rifles and re-enacting is all about. If you have an interest in the War for Southern Independence and would like to know more about it than goes beyond a book or photograph, then re-enacting is for you
