| Our Philosophy |
The crew of the OTTER makes every effort to be different in appearance and attitude than much
of the Revolutionary War living history community. This is for a purpose. Other organizations
make certain concessions to authenticity in order to accommodate a greater number of
renactors. Though we do not criticize this practice, and feel it serves a real purpose in the world
of living history, we choose to be a little different. We define ourselves as a military organization,
in that as we represent a fighting force of the 18th century and we act like sailors, to the extent
that being on shore will allow. During duty hours, we follow proper military protocols and sailors
are expected to live a sailor's life. Our clothing is hand-finished and the materials all linen and
wool, like what the sailors of the OTTER would have worn. Our camps are Spartan, just a sail
rigged as a shelter, an occasional tent (borrowed from the army) and a tin kettle at most. The
purpose is to present a faithful representation of what life in the Royal Navy was like to those
who hope to learn from the events we attend, but also that we may have a deeper appreciation
for the lives of the men we say we represent.
This sort of living history is not for everyone. There are high expectations on all members, but
they are quite attainable, and for those who do, very rewarding. The task of being as authentic
as possible may seem daunting at first, but there are many members standing by to assist with
material acquisition, patterns, contract sewing services if needed, and overall help and advice
to get you kitted out. Plus, you will have the satisfaction of knowing that you are at the peak of
the living history experience, not only educating the general public, but yourself as well. There is
a gratifying feeling knowing that you what you are doing, you are doing right, and you will soon
find that you will be eager to continue to push the envelope. Along with this, you will find
camaraderie among those around you.
To those willing to take up the challenge, we welcome you.
of the Revolutionary War living history community. This is for a purpose. Other organizations
make certain concessions to authenticity in order to accommodate a greater number of
renactors. Though we do not criticize this practice, and feel it serves a real purpose in the world
of living history, we choose to be a little different. We define ourselves as a military organization,
in that as we represent a fighting force of the 18th century and we act like sailors, to the extent
that being on shore will allow. During duty hours, we follow proper military protocols and sailors
are expected to live a sailor's life. Our clothing is hand-finished and the materials all linen and
wool, like what the sailors of the OTTER would have worn. Our camps are Spartan, just a sail
rigged as a shelter, an occasional tent (borrowed from the army) and a tin kettle at most. The
purpose is to present a faithful representation of what life in the Royal Navy was like to those
who hope to learn from the events we attend, but also that we may have a deeper appreciation
for the lives of the men we say we represent.
This sort of living history is not for everyone. There are high expectations on all members, but
they are quite attainable, and for those who do, very rewarding. The task of being as authentic
as possible may seem daunting at first, but there are many members standing by to assist with
material acquisition, patterns, contract sewing services if needed, and overall help and advice
to get you kitted out. Plus, you will have the satisfaction of knowing that you are at the peak of
the living history experience, not only educating the general public, but yourself as well. There is
a gratifying feeling knowing that you what you are doing, you are doing right, and you will soon
find that you will be eager to continue to push the envelope. Along with this, you will find
camaraderie among those around you.
To those willing to take up the challenge, we welcome you.
