ARMY OF THE SOUTHWEST
Iowa Civil War Reenactment Organization
Location in Iowa, USA
The Army of the Southwest is an organization of Iowa Civil War Reenactors, living history enthusiasts dedicated to educating people of all ages about the Civil War through reenactments, school programs, historical events and joint activities with other groups, such as the Sons of Union Veterans.
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, serving in various roles. The ASW is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization.
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, serving in various roles. The ASW is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization.
2025 events continued:
About us.
Welcome to the Army of the Southwest
the most active
Civil War reenacting group
in the state of Iowa,bringing living history to Iowans whowish to learn more about the Civil War Era.
Who are we?
Founded in 1992, we show how the soldiers lived and fought during the Civil War, allowing others to step back in time to learn more about that era.
The ASW is unique since it consists of both Union and Confederate forces, with members who have interests in a variety of military and civilian duties. Reenactments are "living histories" in which our group pitches tents, fights in skirmishes and carries on camp life as it would have been done in the great conflict. Visitors can see displays, tents, clothing and weaponry that were used by soldiers and civilians.
The Union forces in the Army of the Southwest consist of: the 3rd Iowa Light Field Artillery, the 4th Iowa Infantry, and the 7th Cavalry.
The Confederate forces are comprised of: the 9th Kentucky Infantry.
We also have medical personnel, an Invalid Corps and an active civilian component. Many of our soldiers can portray both Yanks and Rebels. (Optional but not required.)
This combination allows our group to have our "enemy" with us at our events. We recreate Civil War history by staging drills, demonstrations and battles that involve Infantry, Artillery and sometimes Cavalry. Where are we?
Most of our members hail from the central Iowa area, where many of our events occur.
Annually, members will appear in regional battles, at least 7 of our own events, and many other parades, ceremonies and presentations in and around the state of Iowa.
Members are fully insured for all of our events. If you would like to reenact with us at one of our events, contact one of the members listed below who can answer any questions you might have.
The ASW is unique since it consists of both Union and Confederate forces, with members who have interests in a variety of military and civilian duties. Reenactments are "living histories" in which our group pitches tents, fights in skirmishes and carries on camp life as it would have been done in the great conflict. Visitors can see displays, tents, clothing and weaponry that were used by soldiers and civilians.
The Union forces in the Army of the Southwest consist of: the 3rd Iowa Light Field Artillery, the 4th Iowa Infantry, and the 7th Cavalry.
The Confederate forces are comprised of: the 9th Kentucky Infantry.
We also have medical personnel, an Invalid Corps and an active civilian component. Many of our soldiers can portray both Yanks and Rebels. (Optional but not required.)
This combination allows our group to have our "enemy" with us at our events. We recreate Civil War history by staging drills, demonstrations and battles that involve Infantry, Artillery and sometimes Cavalry. Where are we?
Most of our members hail from the central Iowa area, where many of our events occur.
Annually, members will appear in regional battles, at least 7 of our own events, and many other parades, ceremonies and presentations in and around the state of Iowa.
Members are fully insured for all of our events. If you would like to reenact with us at one of our events, contact one of the members listed below who can answer any 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.
New ‘recruits’ are always welcome! No experience necessary! Come experience what it was like to serve in the Infantry, Artillery, Cavalry, or as a Surgeon, Flag bearer, Musician or Civilian
Our unit travels with extra weapons, uniforms, and gear, and provides on-site training to new 'recruits' wishing to participate in any scheduled event.
All interested history lovers - men and women - are welcome!!
Membership in the ASW
When you join ASW you can choose the military branch you would like to represent.
Our major event season runs from June to early October.
It is expected that you will attend as many events as possible.
At these events we usually skirmish, fire the cannon, man displays, interact with the public, fire rifles, and conduct drills. We recreate camp life by living in period tents and preparing food as the soldiers did during the war.
Members and first-timers receive an artillery or infantry powder ration. Dues are $12 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 forms of communication to all of our active and potential members.
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 offer you a chance to step back, become a part of American history and experience a unique, extraordinary and rewarding hobby that is both educational and fun. The members listed below will be happy to talk with you about how to get involved, and will answer any questions you may have. We are looking forward to hearing from you, call today!!!
Our major event season runs from June to early October.
It is expected that you will attend as many events as possible.
At these events we usually skirmish, fire the cannon, man displays, interact with the public, fire rifles, and conduct drills. We recreate camp life by living in period tents and preparing food as the soldiers did during the war.
Members and first-timers receive an artillery or infantry powder ration. Dues are $12 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 forms of communication to all of our active and potential members.
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 offer you a chance to step back, become a part of American history and experience a unique, extraordinary and rewarding hobby that is both educational and fun. The members listed below will be happy to talk with you about how to get involved, and will answer any questions you may have. We are looking forward to hearing from you, call today!!!
