Fort Norfolk Garrison
1812-1815
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One of the more neglected conflicts in American history is the War of 1812. In an attempt to help
educate the public about this important era in or nations past, we in the crew of HM Sloop OTTER
participate in various War of 1812 events in the Hampton Roads area of Virginia, as well as at other
sites around the country.
We have two primary impressions; The 20th U.S. Regiment, and the 2nd Virginia Regiment of
Militia, as the
Fort Norfolk Garrison, 1812-1815
A company of the 20th U.S. was recruited in the Charlottsville area of Virginia, and saw duty at old
Fort Norfolk during the Chesapeake campaign. The 20th also saw action in the northern theater.
The 2nd Va. Regiment of Militia was formed at Fort Norfolk, and saw action in the Battle of Craney
Island.
The Fort Norfolk Garrison considers itself a family friendly unit, while at the same
time abiding by a set of uniform and conduct standards that will assure a high level of
authenticity. Our uniforms are constructed with appropriate period-correct fabrics, by
hand when seams are visible. Through research and documentation the accouterments
and weapons we use are as close as possible to that actually used during the War of
1812. Our desire to recreate the troops stationed at Fort Norfolk accurately is such
that these standards will be upheld. And when you think about it, if this is done to the
best of our ability, we can step back and take pride that we are doing our best.
Levels of participation
There are two levels of participation in the Fort Norfolk Garrison, 1812-1815. Entry
level is that of a Militiaman in the 2nd Virginia Regiment of Militia. The new
member will be required to obtain / assemble a basic militia kit based on the
regulations set forth by Governor Barber in January 1812 for Virginia Militia forces.
The next level of progression in the Fort Norfolk Garrison is that of Regular as a
private in the 20th U.S. regular infantry. Our 20th U.S. impression is intended to be
much more "progressive" in nature in that we require an elevated level of authenticity
in uniforming and equipment. Because of this, unit members are not required to
advance to this level to participate in the Fort Norfolk Garrison, it is strictly voluntary,
though encouraged.
See UNIFORM page for details of required clothing and equipment for both impression