ARMY OF THE SOUTHWEST
Iowa Civil War Reenactment Organization
Location in Iowa, USA
The Army of the Southwest (ASW) is an incorporated 501-C3 non profit organization that is dedicated to Iowa Civil War history education. We are a group of Iowa Civil War Reenactors, living history historians that are, dedicated to educating people of all ages about Iowa Civil War through reenactments, school programs and historical events and joint activities with such groups as the Sons of Union Veterans are a part of our outreach.Our 40+ members come from throughout Iowa. The unit consists of Confederate and Union infantry, artillery, and cavalry. In addition we have a strong group of period civilians.
About us
Welcome to the Army of the Southwest! We are the most active civil war reenacting group in the state of Iowa. In an average year members will appear in several major battles, at least 7 of our own events, and many other parades and events in and around the state of Iowa. The Army of the Southwest was founded in 1992 and has been bringing living history to Iowans who wish to know more about the Civil War time period. We turn time into a doorway through which others can step back in history.
The Army of the Southwest is a very unique organization. It consists of both union and confederate forces. Both sides are people who have very special interests in recreating the civil war.
The common bond that all reenactors share is trying to bringing to life the flavor of the civil war era by our live demonstrations. We show how the soldiers lived during that era.
The Union forces in the Army of the Southwest are the 3rd Iowa light field artillery, the 4th Iowa Infantry, and the 7th Cavalry. The Confederate forces list the 9th Kentucky Infantry. This combination allows our group to have our "enemy" with us at our events. Many of our soldiers can portray both yanks and rebels. This is an option and not a requirement! We also have an Invalid Corps and a civilian component.
Reenactments are "living histories" in which our group pitches tents, fights skirmishes and carries on camp life as it would have been done in the great conflict. Visitors can see replicas of the tents, clothing and weaponry that was used by both the soldiers and civilians.
We recreate Civil War history by staging battles that involve infantry, and artillery and sometimes cavalry. We now have civilian reenactors who portray medical personnel such as nurses, orderlies, doctors, etc.
We wish to recruit interested men and women that wish to recreate the life during the Civil War. As a member of this unit you would be expected to get the basic uniform of the unit within the first year.
To get started first contact one of the following people and have a chat about the unit activities such as meetings, events, and any other questions you might have.
The Army of the Southwest is a very unique organization. It consists of both union and confederate forces. Both sides are people who have very special interests in recreating the civil war.
The common bond that all reenactors share is trying to bringing to life the flavor of the civil war era by our live demonstrations. We show how the soldiers lived during that era.
The Union forces in the Army of the Southwest are the 3rd Iowa light field artillery, the 4th Iowa Infantry, and the 7th Cavalry. The Confederate forces list the 9th Kentucky Infantry. This combination allows our group to have our "enemy" with us at our events. Many of our soldiers can portray both yanks and rebels. This is an option and not a requirement! We also have an Invalid Corps and a civilian component.
Reenactments are "living histories" in which our group pitches tents, fights skirmishes and carries on camp life as it would have been done in the great conflict. Visitors can see replicas of the tents, clothing and weaponry that was used by both the soldiers and civilians.
We recreate Civil War history by staging battles that involve infantry, and artillery and sometimes cavalry. We now have civilian reenactors who portray medical personnel such as nurses, orderlies, doctors, etc.
We wish to recruit interested men and women that wish to recreate the life during the Civil War. As a member of this unit you would be expected to get the basic uniform of the unit within the first year.
To get started first contact one of the following people and have a chat about the unit activities such as meetings, events, and any other questions you might have.
The original founders at Greenfield, Iowa, December 5-6, 1992. From left to right: Cedric Ruby, Dave Turpin, O.J. Fargo, Clay Ewing, Joseph Leto (kneeling), Jeff Harrington, Paul Overlin, Jeffrey Overlin, Ed Breeda, and Don Ruffcorn.
Membership in the ASW
The Army of the Southwest is a non-profit organization that consists of 5 4 major units. When you join ASW you can belong to any one of them. Dues are $12 dollars a year and payable in January or pro rated at the time of enlistment. When dues are paid you will:
** receive our newsletter called the "Haversack". This newsletter (and email) are the primary form of communication to all of our active and potential members.
** Members and first-timers will also receive an artillery or infantry powder ration.
** In addition, the club hosts an annual Christmas party.
During your first year it is expected that you will attend ASW events (as many as possible). Our major event season normally starts in April and runs into early October. At these events we usually skirmish, fire the cannon, interact with the public, fire rifles, and conduct drills. We recreate camp life by living in period tents and when time allows, we prepare food and eat as the soldiers did during the war. A fellow member of the unit will gladly act as advisor/mentor to help you get started and keep you informed of future activities.
This is a family organization. We encourage and invite other family members to get involved as civilians, camp followers, etc. Any impression that relates to the Civil War, military or civilian is acceptable.
We invite you to step back in history and be a part of American history. We offer you a chance to experience a unique, extraordinary and rewarding hobby that is both educational and fun.
To get started first contact one of the following people and have a chat about the unit activities such as meetings, events, etc. We are looking forward to hearing from you, call today!!!
** Members and first-timers will also receive an artillery or infantry powder ration.
** In addition, the club hosts an annual Christmas party.
During your first year it is expected that you will attend ASW events (as many as possible). Our major event season normally starts in April and runs into early October. At these events we usually skirmish, fire the cannon, interact with the public, fire rifles, and conduct drills. We recreate camp life by living in period tents and when time allows, we prepare food and eat as the soldiers did during the war. A fellow member of the unit will gladly act as advisor/mentor to help you get started and keep you informed of future activities.
This is a family organization. We encourage and invite other family members to get involved as civilians, camp followers, etc. Any impression that relates to the Civil War, military or civilian is acceptable.
We invite you to step back in history and be a part of American history. We offer you a chance to experience a unique, extraordinary and rewarding hobby that is both educational and fun.
To get started first contact one of the following people and have a chat about the unit activities such as meetings, events, etc. We are looking forward to hearing from you, call today!!!
The Army of the Southwest
-an Iowa Civil War Reenacting Unit
Fully insured club, performing reenactments in cities throughout IowaIncludes both Union and Confederate Forces
Infantry Artillery
Calvalry Surgeons
Flag bearers Musicians
Civilians
Unit travels with extra weapons, uniforms, iniforms and gear, and provides on-site training to new 'recruits' wishing to participate in any scheduled event.
All interested history lovers (including women) are welcome!!