1st Michigan Fife and Drum Corps

We are glad that your Child has decided to give our organization a try. We also want you to know that the 1st Michigan is an organization that encourages family involvement. Parents of performing members and siblings under the age of 21, are encouraged to join the Corps as Campfollowers. Fathers of performing members may also wish to join as musketmen.

What is a Campfollower?

In the 1st Michigan, the Campfollowers serve as our support corps. They march behind the Corps in 18th century clothing and are responsible for giving water to the members, tending to those who may become ill, picking up dropped drumsticks, perhaps helping with carrying the Corps’ banner, passing out brochures, mingling with the public, basically being sure the Corps is able to complete its performance in as smooth a manner as possible. The use of such a support system makes the 1st Michigan a unique musical unit.

Historically, Campfollowers were the women and children of the soldiers. At times, the men would bring their families along with them on the march. If this was to be done then the soldier would have to share his daily rations with the family. There were no special provisions made simply because women and children were along. They endured the same hardships as the men. To try and stay together as a family they tried to survive with insufficient food and water, improper clothing, poor housing conditions, primitive medical care and a rigorous schedule. Life was not easy and, in fact, many families chose to stay behind and try to keep their homesteads rather than trying to survive life as a Campfollower.

What is a Musketman?

Musketmen have traditionally been the fathers of the performing members. They acquire a musket/flintlock and learn to complete the Von Steuben drill. They march in the front of the Corps, usually behind the ensigns (flag bearers), and are uniformed in white hunting frocks. The musketmen are responsible for providing their own uniforms, muskets, accoutrements and gun powder. They must learn and pass the marching drill and Von Steuben manual of arms to the satisfaction of the current honor guard instructor.

How do I become a Campfollower?

Parents and siblings of performing members interested in joining the Corps as Campfollowers need only express an interest in doing so. The Corps has some clothing available to lend to new Campfollowers, however, it will be the responsibility of the Campfollowers to secure an outfit for themselves.

What can I wear as a Campfollower?

There are a wide variety of styles, colors, patterns, and accoutrements available to the Campfollowers. Each Campfollower will be responsible for researching and documenting their own uniform. It must, however, be correct for the 18th century period. Remember, things like zippers were not invented at that time. Elbows must be covered as exposed elbows meant that woman was a “fallen woman.” Heads must have some form of covering. Eighteenth century medicine beliefs stated that sickness would come to those who didn’t cover their head as “bad humors” would enter their body. Twentieth century glasses need to be removed. Eighteenth century frames are available at some events and the Corps sometimes has a few. Lenses can be made to fit into the frames. Watches, rings and other jewelry cannot be worn, however, wedding and engagement rings are allowed. Barrettes can be worn only if they are hidden from view the entire time you are in the public eye. Modern headbands are not allowed. If you pull your hair back, hair ties that match the color of your hair should be used, and then covered with a plain ribbon. All Campfollowers must be able to explain their appearance to the public. Perhaps you could come up with a story of how you became associated with the rifle company. If you choose to dress more “town oriented” then you will need to explain that you chose that dress to depict another part of 18th century civilian life and that you would not necessarily actually dress that way with a group such as ours. Remember that we are portraying a revolutionary war rifle company and that things like ballgowns would not be acceptable. Unique outfits can assist the Corps with meeting its mission of educating the public. You must, however, be able to explain your attire appropriately in order to accomplish this mission. All Campfollower uniforms must first be approved by the Quartermaster. Be sure to get your ideas approved before you begin gathering materials. It really is not as hard as it sounds. Experienced members will be glad to share their knowledge with you and to assist you with patterns and ideas.

What if I decide not to be a Musketman?

Fathers who would prefer to be Campfollowers are welcome to do so. It is not sufficient, however, to simply mimic the dress of the musketmen and march in the back as a Campfollower. This produces a confusing image for the public. Fathers who decide to dress as Campfollowers will need to research an appropriate civilian uniform. In the past, we have had tailors, preachers, and trappers that have all assisted in depicting the image of 18th century civilian life. Again, your uniform must be approved by the Quartermaster.

When can I begin marching as a Campfollower?

What do Campfollowers do?

There are no automatically assigned duties for each individual Campfollower. As previously stated, Campfollowers are the support group for the Corps. Campfollowers should be ready to assist in a variety of ways, by anticipating the needs of the total unit. One of the most appreciated activities is for Campfollowers to supply water to the members while on the march and while participating in events. Not all Campfollowers are able to squirt water in someone’s mouth while marching. You could, however, have a water bottle available to offer members before or after the performance. Campfollowers can also assist by being available to help with members who fall out of the ranks due to illness. Perhaps you could have items such as Band-Aids, aspirins, tissues, “Wet Ones,” safety pins, or a needle and thread available. You could help adjust and fix frocks, collars, neckstocks, and hats to improve the overall appearance of the Corps. Perhaps you could have a small snack to offer such as nuts, crackers or lemon drops. You could offer to help clean up and survey the areas where the Corps has slept or spent some time relaxing. You could offer to assist the ensigns with rolling up and carrying the flag back to the van. If the drummer has marched with the weight of the drum during the parade, perhaps you could offer to carry the drum back to the van. You could “guard” a drum, flag or musket while those members use the restroom or take a short break. As you can see, Campfollowers serve a very important function in the Corps. No one person can do all these things, but a group of Campfollowers can make the Corps run much more efficiently. You only need to volunteer your services and exercise common sense.

What can younger siblings do as Campfollowers?

Younger siblings can assist by offering their services as banner carriers during parades. They can also help by passing out brochures and other information at events. At times, they have provided a great assistance by holding the microphone for the drum major at performances. The Corps does have some 18th century games, and several are available for purchase at various events we attend. During concerts and day long events, younger siblings can assist in providing the public a glimpse into 18th century life by entertaining themselves with games of the time period.

What are the benefits of being a Campfollower?

Parents are not required to become Campfollowers for their children to belong to the Corps. Some parents choose to have their kids come independently. Others choose to not dress as Campfollowers but become involved by providing transportation to events, helping with repairing the trailer or uniforms, or by offering other services to the Corps. There are, however, benefits to becoming a Campfollower. It is the Corps’ policy that only uniformed members are allowed to partake of meals and other hospitality items provided at events. Paid admission to the different historic sites and events is provided to uniformed members only. Parents who choose not to dress in 18th century clothing are welcome to attend the events, but will need to cover their own admission fees and meals. Only uniformed members -- those that dress in some form of 18th century dress (performing members or Campfollowers) -- qualify for bus trips. Campfollowers qualify for bus seats once their son/daughter achieves the rank of Corporal. Bus seats are first assigned to Fifers, Drummers, Ensigns, Musketmen and then Campfollowers. At least 5 Campfollowers must be assigned on the bus to serve as chaperones. Usually, many more than 5 are able to go. The Board of Directors reviews the Campfollower’s attendance and their willingness to assist the Corps to determine their eligibility for the trip. Bus seats are not assigned to non-uniformed personnel.

Join the fun! Follow the Camp!