The Third Arkansas together with the rest of the Texas Brigade and indeed the whole Army of Northern Virginia was, during the mid war period, as well supplied as their opposite numbers in the Union Army of the Potomac. The Army of Northern Virginia drew most of its supplies from the Richmond Quartermaster Supply Depot at the Confederate capital.

The uniform and equipment listed below is for the potential new recruits and is a list of essential items needed to be able to start re-enacting. Do not be put off by the need to obtain expensive uniform items - most members of the 3rd Ark have spare kit as does our Quartermaster which can be borrowed until you get your own. remember it is easier to try before you buy.

Starter Kits are available from most sutlers in the UK at around £70 to £80 and comprise a Shell Jacket, Trousers, Kepi or Forage cap, Belt and Belt Buckle. These are highly recommended as a cheaper way of getting the basic kit.

Jacket - Richmond Depot Jacket style II is the correct style for the Mid war period we portray. This jacket comes with shoulder straps and belt loops, but should have no piping or trim, and be in Light Butternut Jeancloth with a nine brass button front with block or script I buttons. Alternate types and styles of jacket can be worn in alternative materials and colours.

Trousers - Captured Federal Sky Blue kersey wool or any Confederate pattern in Grey or Butternut Jeancloth or wool or even period Civilian trousers are also acceptable.

Hat - Wide brim Slouch hats are recommended as they keep the sun out of your eyes but Kepi’s and Forage caps are allowed and are just as common.

Accoutrements - Belt, Cartridge Box, Cap Pouch and Cartridge Box Cross Belt - CS pattern in Russet Brown leather or Federal pattern in black leather or imported Enfield pattern, Belt Buckles or Plates can be of any CS pattern used, Civilian or Enfield Snake Buckle.

Haversacks can be of any CS pattern in White Canvas or of the Federal Tarred canvas pattern.

Canteens are a must, as after running round in the sun you can get very thirsty, and can be any one of the CS patterns in Tin or Wood or one of the Federal Tin with Wool cover patterns, however stainless steel canteen are allowed, if of a covered design.

Shirts - Any period style shirt as most Confederates supplied their own, no collar style is recommended. Mother of pearl, metal or bone buttons not wood as these are for underwear.

Shoes - Reproduction Brogan style boots are encouraged of either CS or Federal pattern, but as these can be expensive modern desert boots in brown or black, with the metal eyes removed, are acceptable.

Socks - Heavy wool socks as Brogans can be uncomfortable especially when new.

Musket - The India Pattern Three Band Enfield is the most common weapon used by the 3rd Arkansas due to the Firearms Licensing Laws in the UK together with availability and price. To own and use a smooth bore musket you will need a shotgun licence from your local police authority, to use black powder you will need an explosives licence. Any type of Three Band Percussion Musket of the period i.e. Springfield or Enfield, can be used but the use of Two Band Muskets is discouraged but allowed, Flintlock muskets are also discouraged. 

Again, members of the 3rd Ark will be able to help especially with the process of getting the licences sorted.

Mess Kit - A Tin Plate, Tin Mug and period Knife Fork and Spoon will be needed if you wish to eat authentically.

Greatcoat - These can be either Captured Federal Sky Blue wool infantry greatcoat or one of the Confederate pattern’s Grey wool infantry greatcoat. The greatcoat keeps you warm if the temperature gets cold, especially in the evenings when sitting round the campfire.

Rubber Poncho /Gum Blanket - Rubberised canvas water proof poncho / cape which can double as a ground sheet. This comes in handy as it can rain at re-enactments, even during the summer.

Underwear -, Authentic underwear is available, or get some modern thermals as after wearing wool trousers all day you may start to feel uncomfortable.

Knapsack - Federal Canvas Double bag knapsack, pre war Militia knapsack or an Imported Isaac and Campbell knapsack. These are to stow your authentic kit items i.e. spare underwear, shirts, razor, candles etc. for a campaign event or impression.

Blanket Roll - Any period blanket is acceptable. These can be covered with a Confederate or Union gum blanket/poncho (see above). The blanket roll can be used instead of a knapsack ie. roll your spare clothes inside it, and carry wrapped over the shoulder with leather thongs to tie securely.

Tent - If you wish to stay on the authentic camp you will need a white canvas tent, either an A frame tent or a smaller Dog tent, which is better for a campaign event or impression. Our Quartermaster often has spare tents which are sometimes loaned to those without them. 

Authenticity - Before you buy your new kit check with one of the other members to see if the item is authentic for the 3rd Ark and the period. Members can give advice on a wide number of topics so don’t be afraid to ask.

Our Quartermaster is able to supply such item as Mess Kit, Blankets and sometimes Shoes, items of Uniform and Tents at very reasonable rates.