First off my names Steph and I collect things from pre 1950s usually. (I can go into depth for anyone who’s interested) I’ve always been into history. It’s the only subject that would spark any sort of interest for me. (Even though I have a college math and science degree haha). Anyways I’m wondering what’s the best way to meet people who are also into military, thrifting, estate sales, vintage and so on? I’ve always wanted to attend a reenactment but there’s none near me. Plus I live in a state where people are super judgmental. So I guess that’s why I’m here. To meet people. Get tips.. learn some history. So if you’re into any of that let’s be buds ^_^
Welcome aboard Steph. First, in order to help you find reenactment info, need to know what general area you are in and how far you would be comfortable travelling. What specific era are you interested in as far as reenactments? Also, reenactors are like everyone else, some are better than others. Many are very knowledgeable; many are complete morons and any information they share should be taken with a grain of salt until verified. I could tell you some stories! As for thrifting, estate sales, etc, one member here, his first name is Rich, and he lives in Pennsylvania, member name RRA227, is always scoring some nice stuff. He'll probably stop by and check out your thread. In my interactions with him here he's always seemed to be a good guy and I'm sure he'd share some of his secrets. Check out some of his finds in this thread: What's your newest Militaria? (2022) | WWII Forums (ww2f.com) If he doesn't stop by in the next couple of days and say hello, click on his profile and send a message. The historical discussions here are good, pick a thread and join in. Some really knowledgeable folks.
Thankyou so much for all the info! I live in the Bay Area of California. I’m really excited to meet everyone! It’s really nice people are still on forms like this. It almost feels nostalgic to be here haha. I’d like to say I’m pretty educated but there’s always someone who knows more or less. You can ask me any question about the third reich era and I could answer but ask me about anything else I’d have to take a second to think. I actually at the goodwill bins the other day and someone must have donated their entire world war 2 book collection. Let’s just say now I have a world war 2 book collection haha. So nice to meet you, really look forward to everything.
Alright Steph, here's a start as to reenacting. Reenactment groups took a big hit during the pandemic shutdowns. Members couldn't meet, events couldn't be held, they are coming back though. Here is a link to California Historical Group, (should be units in your area), C.H.G. (chgww2.net) Looks like they had an event on 16-18 September, and one coming up in November. There appears to be a wide selection of impressions available to be done, US, British-Commonwealth, German, Japanese, Italian, Soviet, so many different areas of specialization, bound to be something that interests you. Be sure to click on the magazine cover links, they will give a taste of what the hobby was pre-pandemic. They're coming back slowly; I'd say next year's calendar should be more filled out with both big and small events. Military Reenactment Camp - Wings Over Camarillo This was an airshow back in August, in Camarillo. They also included a reenactment camp from one of CHG's units. This type of event/living history is probably quite common, and you could check something like this out. Worse comes to worse, these type of events tend to be yearly and you can plan on attending next year. World War Two Impressions, Inc – WWII Impressions, Inc This company sells reproduction uniforms and equipment. You can browse through their stuff, but click on the "links" section and you can check out some informative sites and track down/hookup with reenactors. This should get you started, if you'd like more info or have questions on specific areas or want additional info on different eras, just ask.
There's also these guys in the UK, if interested. Soldier Of Fortune Modern Military Re-enactor Airsoft Clothing and Equipment
I came in with the spam cannon cocked. Good thing I read the OP first. https://ww2reenactors.proboards.com/
i really appreciate it! I’m definitely going to have to get myself together a time appropriate outfit! So exciting. I definitely will! I know there’s a big one in the uk somewhere and it’d be a dream to go.
Welcome aboard Steph/Thriffanie. The crew appears to have answered most of your main points already. We aren't exactly a living history/re-enactor site, but we have heaps of content on almost every other area, and members who have deep knowledge to answer most any relevant questions. I'd stick mostly to the linked discussion boards for info (especially this one ). Social media sites can be helpful, but I find them more bluster than helpful.
Welcome aboard Steph, OP - I came in with the spam cannon cocked. - Lol made me look twice. Steph i doubt their would be re-enactments in Germany...i may be wrong but Germans are not proud of their WW2 history and tend to not like talking about it even. Some uniform ideas:
