Southern Skirmish Association

Union and Confederate troops

ABOUT THE SOUTHERN
SKIRMISH ASSOCIATION

The Southern Skirmish Association or SoSkAn as we are more widely known is the oldest American Civil War re-enactment society outside of the USA. Established in 1968 SoSkAn has been educating the public through battle reenactment and living history displays ever since.

SoSkAn have performed in small local fetes, country shows and stately homes, this includes venues in the UK, the Continent and the USA. We have often been used by film and TV companies for advertisements, documentaries and feature films. We are continually looking for new opportunities to engage with the public so if you have an event you’d like to see us at please contact us either using the contact us form or by emailing info@soskan.org.uk

Confederates Advance

JOIN SOSKAN AND LIVE THE LIFE AND TIMES OF THE AMERICAN CIVIL WAR

Are you interested in joining us and portraying the historic American civil war? We have some fantastic opportunities available for individuals and families to join us. It’s not all about the battlefield!

SoSkAn has several different membership options available to suit everyone. If you require any assistance with joining us please contact us either using the contact us form or by emailing membership@soskan.org.uk
Join Now
Soskan Battalion marching together

LIVING HISTORY AND
RE-ENACTMENT SOCIETY

Since our inauguration in June 1968 we have proudly portrayed the lives of the brave men and women who gave their lives for their beliefs during those difficult American Civil War years of 1861 – 1865. We are a family orientated organisation with members from all walks of life, joining together in a shared interest.
As a military based society our members are expected to participate in all things military. This doesn’t just mean the battles! Our members are properly trained to handle the weapons and equipment of the period using the correct drill and instruction manuals. We can be seen ‘living’ daily life within our camps at events where our members are always happy to talk to the public and answer any questions you may have.
Whether you are an existing member, event organiser or interested member of the public if you can’t find the information you require please contact us here.
Contact Us

You can be anything you want to be, have anything you desire... If you will hold to that desire with singleness of purpose.

Robert. E. Lee
Could this be you?

Our Gallery

kelham hall 2017

members'/professional
photographs

civilian photographs

Bath End of Season
1865 / 2015

1960-2019

Training and
Educational Weekends

Thus ended the great American Civil War, which must upon the whole be considered the noblest and least avoidable of all the great mass conflict of which till then there was record.

Winston Churchill

FAQ

There are a multitude of reasons that we choose to reenact the American Civil War, amongst these are; an interest in keeping the history of this period alive; the camaraderie that can be found within the regiments and the society; escaping the 21st century and becoming someone else for the weekend; sharing our love of the period with the public through conversations and showcasing our kit and uniforms and being able to educate others with our passion and dedication. Also, it’s a lot of fun!
There isn’t a one size fits all answer, if you are interested in joining then most units will be able to loan you some kit for up to the first year. Many members build up their own kit over time, this can also vary greatly depending on whether you invest in original kit, purchase reproductions or are good with a sewing machine. Additionally, you may find other members who are selling second hand kit.
As a society we have training in place for all members. Any individuals participating in battles or skirmishes will undertake specific training through drills and competencies to ensure we are keeping all members as safe as we are able. However, it is important to remember that there is always a risk with weapons of any kind and that must be respected. We are fully insured in case of any incidents.
The armies both began the civil war with about the same number of men, although the union army expanded to outnumber the confederates 2:1. Within the association we have more union members than confederate, although events may differ due to individual attendance.
No, not at all. Every member of the association has a choice as to the living history impression they can do. Although our society is mainly dedicated to portraying a military impression, we warmly welcome any members who wish to portray a civilian role. Our societies’ civilian members aim to develop impressions appropriate to a military setting, Reenacting the role of civilian life and work within the camp. Many of our civilian members enjoy taking part in reenactment as much as the soldiers do on the field and are a welcome addition to our societies living history.
No! Many of our members didn’t know anything, or very little before they joined. Once you have joined you will find it easy to learn as you go. We have some incredibly knowledgeable members too who are more than happy to share what they know! =

There are some amazing online resources and books people can look into;

Library of congress, The research arsenal, War Graves records, Regimental websites.

For a broader overview even movies such as Gettysburg and Glory Days can be helpful to provide an insight.

Firstly, there is no rush to make a decision. You are more than welcome to come along, spend some time with us as a society and with individual units and join where you feel the most comfortable.    

Once you have made a decision as to who you would like to join, reach out to that unit, if you need any help our membership secretary will be more than happy to help you. If further down the line, you wish to change regiments this can be actioned as long as both regiments agree.

What a cruel thing war is.. to fill our hearts with hatred instead of love for our neighbours.

Robert. E. Lee