By-laws of the 137th New York Co. F Reenacting Unit

1. We are representing the 137th New York, Co. F, only. We will portray no other civil war unit under these by-laws.

2. Members are not to belong to any other civil war reenacting organizations. Belonging to other groups only creates conflicts.

3. Minimum age for military membership is 16 years old. Anyone handling a firearm or carrying a flag will be age 16, and this will be strictly enforced. The minimum age for a musician is 10 years old and they must be a relative of a member or a close friend of a member's family. No one under the age of 16 will be allowed membership unless they meet the above mentioned conditions.

4. Each member, military and civilian, will receive and fill out a medical emergency information sheet. This is to be put in a ziplock bag and kept in a haversack or purse. This could save your life in a medical emergency.

5. Civilians are welcomed, but remember that not all civilians in the 1860s wore hoop skirts and fine suits. Most were dressed in plain clothes. The choice of civilian impressions is up to the individual.

6. Members are responsible for obtaining and maintaining their own equipment. The only tents allowed in the military camp are the shelter half. The only firearms allowed on the field are the three-banded .57 cal. Enfield and .58 cal. Springfield rifles. No revolvers, big knives, or two-banded muskets will be allowed on the field. All firearms must pass a safety inspection to be allowed on the field.

7. All business and political matters will be handled by the sergeant.

8. All applicants for membership will fill out an application form. All information on this form will be kept strictly confidential.

9. Dues will be set at $10.00 per household per year. Dues are to be paid by March 1st. If dues are not paid by that date we will assume you have decided to leave the unit.

10. Due to the fact that we are a family unit, and that we are very concerned for the safety of our members (especially the children), anyone who has been convicted of a felony will automatically be refused membership.

11. Absolutely no illegal drugs or excessive drunkenness will be tolerated at any time. No minors will be allowed alcohol at any time. This is a zero tolerance rule.

12. Members will sign in at the sergeant's tent at events.

13. Military members camping in the modern camping area are required to find out the schedule of events, and are expected to show up at morning roll call.

Revised August 8th, 2001.