Since its organization in
1985 the Fort Phil Kearny/Bozeman Trail Association has had as one of its goals the
interpretation of Fort Phil Kearny and its occupants. In an effort to interpret the
occupants and the fort the association has sponsored numerous living history groups,
speakers, and organizations, and has always endeavored to see an area group of this type
formed. In 2002, with the help of the association, and including several members of
the present board, this became a reality. Casey Mott, a board member, became the
first president, and other board members served in helping to get the organization going.
Over the next year the group established itself as an independent nonprofit 5013c
living history group consisting of civilians, frontiersmen, infantry, cavalry, artillery,
women and children.
Today, Kearny’s Frontier Regulars is
its own organization with a base membership of over 25 individuals portraying all aspects
of frontier military life in 1st and 3rd person representations. Programs include
laundress, artillery, infantry, frontier scout, Quartermaster Dandy, cavalry, women’s
clothing, frontier cooking, and more. These programs have been and are presented at
local and regional schools, the fort, various state parks and community events, the
National Parks and Historic Sites including the 140th Anniversary of Antietam and
Maryland’s South Mountain Battlefield Dedication. Each summer we travel the
state and sometimes the nation presenting weekend programs to help educate and introduce
the public to our history in an entertaining format.
Our organization is setup with four officers
whom are elected biannually from the membership. Dues are approximately $45.00,
which includes insurance for our programs, and a monthly newsletter. We encourage
both individual and family memberships. Our group activities include campouts,
target practice, dances, and general all around fun. Presently, we have extra
equipment and uniforms to help those starting out to get uniformed or dressed, but that
will eventually be an expense of about $150.00. Those interested in joining or for
additional information may contact Robert Wilson at rcwilson@vcn.com
/ (307) 684-7136.
Kearny’s Frontier Regulars is available for Public or
Private programs. They will deliver one hour, one day, or up-to one-weekend programs
in the area or region on subjects ranging from frontier military to civilian personalities
and lifestyles, weapons and tools. Fees are kept to a minimum and are usually only
required to off set the cost of participation. For additional information or to
request a program you may contact the above individuals. |
| Kearny's Frontier Regulars - Summer 2004 This summer
Kearny's Frontier Regulars took part in a number of programs both inside and outside of
Wyoming. The season began with Living History/Interpretation Training at Fort
Fetterman in late May. Here, we trained with groups from around the region,
including North and South Dakota, Colorado, and Wyoming. The groups shared
experiences, safety concerns and methodologies, drilled in both Infantry and Artillery
tactics, camped on site and all in all had a good experience. The highlight of the
weekend was the ability to work with the Natrona County High School ROTC program, training
their young men and women on the teamwork, safety, and correct operation of a 12-lb
Mountain Howitzer. It was a real pleasure for us and they certainly welcomed the
learning and experience. It is always nice to work with such an enthusiastic group.
We then participated in Sheridan's Memorial Day Program, saluting our past and working
with present veterans. During Bozeman Trail Days we conducted the burial services
for a Phil Kearny soldier discovered during the Indian Memorial Construction at the Little
Bighorn. This was followed with a weekend of Living History Programs covering a vast
array of military and civilian subjects. We then took to the road, presenting
Infantry, Artillery, and Civilian programs at South Pass City, Wyoming, Fort Abraham
Lincoln, North Dakota, Fourth of July Programs near Sheridan, a parade in Story and
others. We will complete this season with our nineteenth century period Christmas
Dance on December 18th and the annual anniversary tour of the Fetterman Battlefield.
As in the past we are looking for new members. People who are interested in frontier
history, might want to fire a cannon or rifles, learn the tactics of the 1860's soldier,
campout, and generally have a good “old” time with friends are welcome to join
by calling Bob Wilson at (307) 684-7629. |
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