The
12th Light Dragoons is always happy to consider new recruits to the ranks.
If you think you would like more information about joining please feel free
to contact us.
What do we expect?
The 12th is formed
of a group of individuals with a similar approach to our hobby. We feel
that through finding members who share many common interests and goals,
the Unit can grow and develop optimally. So what common threads do members
of the 12th share?
* Commitment
to Living History.
The
12th is a living history group. Although we don't expect members to have identical
approaches to the re-creation of a light cavalry regiment of the Napoleonic
Wars, we do encourage and expect the highest standards of historical authenticity.
Equipment, uniforms and tack are hand made or sourced from quality suppliers
and the life and conduct of the camp is modelled on original drill manuals.
As
a cavalry regiment, the 12th is commited to all aspects of horsemanship and
horsemastery. All our riding members are expected to help and share in the care,
management and riding of the horses. Horses are cared for, wherever possible,
in camp and the grooming, feeding and exercise of the horses is as important
to the life of The Unit as riding in battles and displays.
* Commitment
to Enjoyment.
Although
the business of a living history light cavalry camp is hard work, we are all
members because of a hobby. The Unit aims to provide a genuine, strong spirit
of camaradery without the need to 'play hard'. Most members enjoy relaxing in
front of the fire after the 'Mess Dinner' and many are friends out of uniform.
We aim to keep the numbers of NCO's to a minimum to avoid hierarchies and a
'top heavy' command structure.
* Attendance
at every show
*
Expensive purchases to start
New
members, of any riding ability, are welcome . We have an active program for
training in period horsemastery and horsemanship run by our two rough riders.
We run regular riding schools to teach the novice, develop the competent and
polish the experienced. Side saddle riders of any experience are also welcome
in the civilian arm of The Unit as are non riding members.
Living
history is an interest that can span many periods and many members of the 12th
also participate in other periods and other groups. All we ask is that when
in uniform or at an event as a 12th Light Dragoon, members are committed to
The Unit and participate in the camp duties equally.
Although
exhilarating, light cavalry re-enactment can be tiring and time consuming. The
Unit limits the number of events we partake of per season and members are not
expected to attend every show. All we ask is that members honour what commitments
they do give to enable the season to be planned effectively.
To
prevent new recruits from having to expend large sums of money on uniform and
equipment before they are ready to join as full Troopers, we operate a system
of Recruits. This requires limited uniform to be purchased to take part in events
with tack and horse furniture being lent by the unit during events.
*Farriers
and Armourers Wanted*
The 12th has vacancies
for people with an interest in the period portrayal of these specialist trades.
Qualified Farriers interested in the re-creation of a working Napoleonic forge
and farriers' tools and Armourers interested in period swords or firearms
are welcome to contact us. We are keen to offer help in the development of
these and other important positions.
For contacts details,
numbers and email addresses
To download a copy
of recruit information (PDF format - Adobe Acrobat Reader required)
Link to Acrobat free
download site
